Faraway, so Close: Perceptions of the Metaverse on the Edge of Madness

Abstract

With the evolution of technologies, virtual reality allows us to dive into cyberspace through different devices and have immersive experiences in different contexts, which, in a simple way, we call virtual worlds or multiverse (integrating Metaverse versions). Through virtual reality, it is possible to create infinite simulated environments to immerse ourselves in. Future internet may be slightly different from what we use today. Virtual immersion situations are common (particularly in gaming), and the Metaverse has become a lived and almost real experience claiming its presence in our daily lives. To investigate possible perspectives or concepts regarding the Metaverse, virtual reality, and immersion, we considered a main research question: To what extent can a film centered on the multiverse be associated with adults’ Metaverse perceptions? Considering that all participants are adults, the objectives of this study are: (1) Verify the representations of the Metaverse; (2) Verify the representations of immersion; (3) Verify the representations of the multiverse; (4) Verify the importance of a film (related to the Metaverse and the multiverse) on the representations found. This study—framed in a Ph.D. research project—analyzed the participants’ answers through an online survey using two films to gather thoughts, ideas, emotions, sentiments, and reactions according to our research objectives. Some limitations were considered, such as the number of participants, number of the questionnaire questions and the knowledge or lack of the main concepts. Our results showed that a virtual world created by a movie might stimulate the perception of almost living in that supposed reality, accepting the multiverse and Metaverse not as distant concepts but as close experiences, even in an unconscious form. This finding is also a positive contribution to a discussion in progress aiming for an essential understanding of the Metaverse as a complex concept.

Unravelling Virtual Realities—Gamers’ Perceptions of the Metaverse

“…In the rapidly evolving landscape of digital technologies, the concept of the Metaverse has emerged as a transformative force, redefining how we interact with and experience the online world [1][2][3][4][5][6]. The Metaverse represents a collective virtual shared space that integrates augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and the internet, providing users with immersive, interconnected experiences [1][2][3][4][5][6]. As we navigate this dynamic digital realm, the Metaverse promises to reshape social interactions, commerce, and entertainment [2,7].…”

“…The Metaverse represents a collective virtual shared space that integrates augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and the internet, providing users with immersive, interconnected experiences [1][2][3][4][5][6]. As we navigate this dynamic digital realm, the Metaverse promises to reshape social interactions, commerce, and entertainment [2,7]. Its importance lies in creating a seamless digital environment and in the potential to revolutionise how we collaborate, communicate, and engage with information on a global scale [1][2][3][4][5][6].…”

“…As we navigate this dynamic digital realm, the Metaverse promises to reshape social interactions, commerce, and entertainment [2,7]. Its importance lies in creating a seamless digital environment and in the potential to revolutionise how we collaborate, communicate, and engage with information on a global scale [1][2][3][4][5][6].…”

“…The immersive nature of the Metaverse fosters a sense of presence [9], enabling users to engage with content in ways that go beyond traditional interfaces. This sensitive level of engagement can have profound implications across various industries, from education and healthcare to entertainment [2] and business. Immersing oneself in a virtual environment opens new possibilities, marking a paradigm shift in our approach to digital interactions.…”

“…As we delve deeper into the digital frontier, the multiverse concept emerges as a compelling extension of the Metaverse, introducing the idea of interconnected and parallel digital universes. The multiverse goes beyond a singular virtual space, envisioning a network of diverse and coexisting digital realms with unique characteristics and rules [2,10]. This concept emphasises the diversity and richness of digital experiences, accommodating various preferences and interests.…”