Future entertainment technologies

Today's computer games provide a realistic visual output combined with a convincing sound sensation. However, another important perception channel, the proprioceptive sensation, is insufficiently addressed. In particular the perception of spatial distances, which is typically supported by a real walking experience, is not yet integrated into existing games. However, walking is sensed by our limbs both in a proprioceptive way (joints, muscles etc.) and through skin surface sensors. This article describes an approach that could lead to a new quality of future computer games by integrating spatial awareness through the sensation of real walking. © 2011 ACM.