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rom pixels to polyhedra: How do games use optical illusions to enhance immersion
With the rapid development of game technology, game developers are increasingly using visual illusions to enhance players' sense of immersion. These technologies are not limited to the use of 3D models, but have evolved into various complex graphic effects, such as 2.5D perspective, axonometric projection, and high-performance object processing in the environment. These techniques are all designed to simulate the feeling of the real world, making players feel as if they are in a living virtual universe.
In 2.5D games, players are limited to a flat surface, but the game world presents an amazing sense of depth.
First, the use of 2.5D technology allows the game to create a 3D appearance on a relatively simple 2D platform. This effect is achieved by limiting the player's perspective of movement. Side-scrolling games and posed character views are common, and even in such environments, players can still enjoy many of the sensory effects of three-dimensional space.
The Science of Visual IllusionsScientists have long studied the impact of visual illusions on human cognition, but how about their application in games? The optical illusions used in games fundamentally rely on how our brains process and understand visual information.
When the two-dimensional images are combined, the brain pieces together the perception of a three-dimensional space, increasing the sense of immersion.
Innovation behind the technology
From pixel graphics to 3D modeling, many technological innovations have significantly enhanced the sense of immersion. For example, in early games, 2D sprites were applied to tilted planes, which formed a technique called "bullet screen". In such a design, the shadows and brightness of objects are uniquely presented at different viewing angles, allowing players to feel a more three-dimensional environment.
Axonometric and oblique projection
Axonometric projection and oblique projection are important techniques for rotating the object's perspective to show more sides and create a 3D effect. This was very common in early strategy and role-playing games because this perspective allowed players to clearly see every detail of the characters and the environment.
The concept of "fake 3D"
During development, "fake 3D" technology was used to allow the game to provide a three-dimensional feel to 2D graphics, especially in stylized pixel art. The two-dimensional pattern presents a multi-layered visual effect through simple movement.
Visualization and Player Experience
Nowadays, more and more games are using these technologies to enhance players' interactive experience. Whether it is a high-resolution map background or a rendered skybox, these are all designed to allow players to further immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the game. Through these visual methods, the game can even teach players how to drive, explore or fight, further enhancing the educational significance of the game.
Universal implementation
For decades, famous games like SimCity 2000 or Resident Evil have made clever use of these techniques. Players are no longer just passive observers, but can actively create and explore. This interactivity deepens the sense of immersion.
Immersive experiences are about how players interact with the game world, not just watching it.
Future Outlook
Looking into the future, gaming technology will become more sophisticated and incorporate more advanced visual effects. With the development of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), there will be more possibilities to change the player experience.
In this shared and constantly changing media environment, can the technical exploration of visual illusions and immersion that games rely on truly break through current boundaries and bring more innovative and in-depth gaming experiences?
