Immersive Storytelling, Virtual Reality
Rift VRunner: VR Exergame
Client Aalborg University
Category Virtuel Reality
Year 2024
Overview

"Rift VRunner" is a virtual reality (VR) exergame developed as part of my master's program in Medialogy at Aalborg University. The game aims to make physical activity more engaging by combining exercise with immersive gameplay. Using arm swing locomotion, players navigate through different dimensions, simulating running without the need for additional hardware. This approach helps minimize cybersickness while providing a good workout that targets cardiovascular endurance and upper body strength.

The game is set within a story where players explore a series of dimensions created by a mad scientist's experiments. It blends fitness with adventure, encouraging both physical activity and strategic thinking.

Drawing on motivational theories, "Rift VRunner" seeks to keep players engaged while promoting long-term fitness habits. Whether you're experienced with VR or new to the technology, it offers a fun and accessible way to stay active.

Explore new worlds, get moving, and enjoy a different kind of workout with "Rift VRunner"!

For more information and to download a demo of the game, visit Rift VRunner on Itch.io.

Deep Dive & Creative process

The development of Rift VRunner was an intricate journey of experimentation, iteration, and creative exploration. From the very beginning, the goal was to merge the engaging elements of virtual reality with the physical demands of exercise in a way that felt natural, immersive, and above all, fun.

The artistic direction of Rift VRunner was also a crucial part of the creative process. Each dimension was meticulously designed to evoke a specific atmosphere, from the vibrant yet unstable Fantasy World to the gritty, futuristic Cyberpunk World. The visual style was carefully crafted to not only be visually appealing but also to enhance the player’s immersion and emotional connection to the game’s narrative.

 
Extensive testing and feedback helped me fine-tune the gameplay to ensure it was both challenging and accessible. The result is a demo version of Rift VRunner, available on Itch.io, which showcases the potential of VR exergames to provide a unique blend of entertainment and exercise.
 

To experience Rift VRunner for yourself and see the result of this creative endeavor, you can try the demo on Itch.io.