Chapter 9: Virtual Remote Presence (VRP): Exploring the Subjective Feeling of Presence in Virtual Reality Games

Despite the growing body of research on VR gaming, the subjective feeling of presence in VR games remains underexplored. This chapter delves into the concept of subjectivity in VR gaming, focusing on how different perspectives – first-person, third-person and omnipresence – affect the feeling of presence. Existing studies often emphasize user experience, mental health effects, physical activity and social interactions, but little attention has been given to subjectivity in virtual environments. This chapter argues that understanding the subjective feeling of presence is crucial for designing believable virtual environments. The chapter focuses on how VR games can utilize various gameplay ideas to evoke different emotions and a sense of agency. For instance, allowing players to switch characters can affect immersion and engagement. The chapter narrows its focus to role-playing games (RPGs), where controlling a single character provides a strong sense of agency and interaction. It discusses how player choices and interactions shape the game narrative, enhancing subjective experiences. By comparing theories and examples from different game genres, the chapter aims to provide a framework for future research and development in VR gaming, stressing the need for a balanced approach that integrates immersive gameplay with engaging narratives. The insights from this chapter are intended to guide researchers and game designers in creating VR experiences that offer a deeper sense of presence and emotional connection.