VRChat, the social virtual reality platform released in 2014, allows users to interact virtually with 3D avatars and explore over 25,000 community created worlds. The possibilities in these worlds are endless, left to the imagination of a thriving community of creators.
In this article we will delve into some amazing VRC worlds I have come across and explain why I think they are currently some of the best to be found on the platform.
For those who have not yet tried VRC, there are ways to sidestep being thrown into the chaos of public worlds on the platform. A good way to get started is to create a private instance of a particular world you are interested in exploring. This gives you the chance to get comfortable with the controls and navigating different spaces before entering into public worlds.
1. Exoplanet Journey — Niko∗ — PCVR & QUEST
Exoplanet Journey is a chillout world based on a spaceship moving through an endless horizon. As soon as you enter into this world you become hypnotised by the surroundings as you hurtle through rugged terrain, alien atmospheres and mesmerizing planets. Exoplanet Journey demonstrates the highly customisable nature of VRC worlds, with the ability to choose from several different environments to float through. You can also select music and visuals from a menu to accompany you on your journey. This world is a wonderful example of a simple concept made sublime with the use of effective environmental design and acute attention to detail. A great spot to relax with friends and watch the universe go by.
2. CAVE OKINAWA — Tokoyoshi — PCVR
This world was made using photogrammetry, a 3D scanning technique that stitches together a collection of photos into a 3D model. The realism that photogrammetry offers is currently unparalleled and offers a more detailed aesthetic to what users may usually find in VR. This experience starts at the entrance to the cave which at first seems like a normal scan of an outdoor environment. When you start climbing the stairs, however, it quickly becomes apparent that you can walk into the cave itself. Cave Okinawa offers a glimpse into the capabilities of combining 3D scanning with VR and also points to an emerging field of digital tourism where visiting international sites of interest can be done virtually with the use of immersive technology.
3. Caldera Garden — WIP — Tajasuka — PCVR/QUEST
Caldera Garden is an incredibly well-designed world that perfects some of the main aspects of effective world-building for VR. The architecture for the world is some of the best I’ve come across on the platform. The sleek-looking construction is as beautiful as it is functional and provides the central foundation for the world which stretches out into mountainous surroundings. The slow-moving clouds, excellent use of lighting, and high-quality sound design combine to create a perfect example for how to effectively design a world for VR.
4. Space Colony “Island-4” — S_ASAGIRI — PCVR
Space Colony Island-4 is a digital version of an O’Neill cylinder, a space settlement concept consisting of two counter-rotating cylinders. What separates this world from others is its sheer expanse. Parts of the world you can just about make out on the distant horizon look to be inaccessible until you reach them to find otherwise. To cover the large distances of the map you have access to fully functioning cars as well as a train system. Visually stunning and with so much to explore, this is a world not to be missed.
5. Gumball Lounge 3.0 — screamingcolor — PCVR/QUEST
The list wouldn’t be complete without a puzzle world which within VRChat has its own entire genre. Gumball Lounge is an amazing creation that takes users through a series of different puzzles, obstacles, and mazes. The world is psychedelic by design and makes heavy and effective use of animations, particle systems, and shaders. The game itself requires a good level of teamwork and communication in order to overcome its various challenges. An unbelievable achievement, Gumball Lounge 3.0 will keep you engaged, enthralled, and in a continuous state of awe.
The creativity on display in VRChat is immense and continues to push the boundaries of what is currently possible in virtual reality. It provides a framework that empowers its community of creators to discover best practice when it comes to desinging for VR and new ways to interact with eachother in virtual space.
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