Virtual reality may still be somewhat niche, but that’s quickly changing. More and more people are buying VR headsets with each passing year. As the technology continues to improve, these devices will become more affordable, boosting their popularity to an even greater degree.
There are many experiences VR tech can offer users. Immersing users in history is one of the more noteworthy and significant. With VR, a person can explore a historical setting, learning about it in a uniquely dynamic way.
Consider the following examples. They represent just some of the most interesting (and, in some cases, exciting) VR history experiences currently available.
The Best Ways to Learn About History in Virtual Reality
Wonders of the World
Visiting the Wonders of the World is one of the most common items found on the bucket lists of history buffs. Of course, not everyone can afford to visit these spots in person.
That’s no longer a problem thanks to VR technology. On the Oculus Go, the Wonders of the World app allows users to explore such sites as Machu Picchu and the Taj Mahal.
It’s also worth noting that the locations this app provides “access” to aren’t limited to those that remain in existence. For example, the app also lets users visit the Colossus of Rhodes. The actual statue may no longer exist, but with VR, you can still see it up close (in a way).
Timelooper
Don’t worry if you don’t currently own a VR headset. Although enjoying these experiences in VR is of course the best way to fully immerse yourself in them, Timelooper is an example of an app that also allows users to explore historical sites through their smartphones.
The company behind Timelooper actually works with numerous organizations to develop VR experiences based on history. One of their most popular creations is a mini-app that recreates various sites and events from New York City’s past.
Remembering Pearl Harbor
If you’re interested in learning more about the bombing of Pearl Harbor, and you own a VR headset, you may want to check out this video, available on YouTube. It provides a recreation of the events that VR headset users can explore in 360 degrees, putting them right in the middle of a major historical moment.
Dunkirk
The Dunkirk VR Experience is another 360 video worth taking a look at on YouTube. Christopher Nolan’s film about this event might have been very popular, but it didn’t necessarily insert viewers into the experience of being on that fateful beach. This video does, providing VR and history fans with a way to experience the evacuation of Dunkirk in a manner that might be more emotionally-engaging than simply watching a movie.
Once again, these are just a few examples of VR apps and experiences you can look into if you’re interested in history. You might want to conduct your own research to learn about more. Luckily, as VR’s popularity continues to grow, more and more developers will use this technology to immerse us in history.
