What characterizes virtual reality (VR)?

Virtual reality (VR) is defined primarily by its ability to simulate immersive environments through computer technology. This means that VR creates a fully digital environment that users can interact with, typically using specialized equipment like headsets and controllers. These simulations can include a variety of settings, whether fantastical or realistic, allowing users to experience places and situations that are not present in the real world.

Integrating real and digital elements refers more accurately to augmented reality (AR), where digital information is overlaid on the real world rather than creating an entirely separate digital environment. This distinction emphasizes the immersive aspect of VR, which transports users into a wholly virtual space.

Focusing exclusively on real-world settings does not characterize VR; rather, it emphasizes the limitations of such settings, which VR seeks to transcend by offering completely new environments that may not exist in reality.

Similarly, utilizing only augmented content is not applicable to VR as this pertains more to AR, which combines aspects of the real world with digital enhancements, rather than constructing a fully immersive virtual scenario.

In summary, the essence of virtual reality lies in its capability to simulate entirely new environments and experiences, which allows for a broad array of applications beyond mere augmentation of the existing physical world.