Inspiration
The Environmental Simulation Project was conceived from the urgent need to educate current and future generations about environmental preservation. Our mission is to create an engaging virtual reality experience that teaches players the importance of proper recycling practices and their effects on the planet. Utilizing immersive VR technology, we aim to make sustainability learning both enjoyable and impactful.
What it does
Designed for the Meta Quest 2, this VR game immerses players in vibrant outdoor environments where they collect recyclable items and sort them into the correct bins. Correct recycling transforms the environment—trees regrow, rivers clear up, and wildlife returns. Players earn badges for their efforts and can take on challenges to improve their speed and accuracy.
How we built it
We developed the project using Unity for its graphical capabilities and VR support. The game’s logic was implemented in C++, with some elements done in Blueprint for rapid prototyping. The Meta Quest 2 enabled us to design highly immersive first-person interactions.
Challenges we ran into
VR Optimization and Dynamic Environments: We faced challenges in ensuring smooth VR performance while creating an environment that reacts to player actions. Technical difficulties arose, particularly with implementing water clarity mechanics that influenced both the environment and the camera.
Accomplishments We’re Proud Of
- Creating a visually appealing VR experience that successfully educates players on recycling.
- Establishing a dynamic feedback system that showcases the impact of players' actions in real-time.
- Designing an intuitive user interface tailored for younger audiences.
- Receiving positive playtesting feedback, confirming the game's educational and entertainment value.
Throughout development, we discovered a problematic script related to water reflection that hindered performance. Despite considering its removal, the complexity of our dynamic water package made this a tough decision. We also encountered issues with another script that unexpectedly disconnected the camera, complicating troubleshooting efforts.
What we learned
We gained insights on the importance of user feedback in refining gameplay and the value of optimizing for VR performance while maintaining visual engagement. Our collaboration across art, design, and technical areas, with a keen focus on accessibility for younger players, emerged as vital to striking a balance between fun gameplay and educational content.
What's Next for the Environmental Simulation Project
Moving forward, we plan to introduce advanced features like composting, renewable energy, and a multiplayer mode for collaborative cleanup efforts.
We’ll develop a mascot to guide players and seek educational partnerships to integrate the game into curricula. Additionally, a companion website will feature resources and links to real-world recycling efforts. We’ll focus on optimizing the game for various VR platforms while exploring opportunities for porting to other headsets.
Demo Link : https://drive.google.com/file/d/1kn0r0NdQaQ5lbG3_PkzTGdHocku4DeKX/view
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