From: cyberoid@ix.netcom.com (Bob Jacobson )
Subject: Re: DESIGN: 3D computing vs. virtual reality:  what's the difference?
Date: 12 Dec 1995 00:44:14 GMT
Message-ID: <4aij8u$k04@ixnews6.ix.netcom.com>
Organization: Netcom


From: cyberoid@ix.netcom.com (Bob Jacobson )

In an earlier article, I asked the question, "How does 3D computing
differ from 'virtual reality'?"  My respondents each did a good job of
making the case variously for immersion, presence, and more organic
methods for portraying virtual worlds as the key differentiating
factors.  Everyone agrees: virtual reality or virtual worlds are
perceived by a person as if she or he was within the
computer-generated world; 3D computing is not.

So let me lower the limbo bar and ask provocatively: so what?  Why
struggle to create virtual worlds that are experienced from within,
when it is so much easier, cheaper, and less controversial to simply
put a 3D model of a world on a monitor screen?

Don't get me wrong.  I'm in there with everyone else, trying to sell
these silly things we call virtual worlds.  What's the right pitch?

Bob Jacobson
Worldesign Inc.
Seattle