In this class, I learned that virtual reality can be utilized in many different fields and areas of interests. Most importantly, VR is an empathy machine. This is why I decided to create a virtual reality experience on something that was always hard for me to explain to people who have never experienced it. In this case, it was men who don’t understand the pervasive nature of street harassment and catcalling.

My final project simulates a woman walking through an urban neighborhood in the middle of the night. In this short period of time, different men would follow her, make inappropriate commentary, and intrude on her personal space. I designed this simulation as closely to reality as possible. My goal is have the male user feel the same sense of discomfort as women who face this reality on a daily basis. I put a mirror in a shop window so the player can see herself as a woman.

It was quite difficult for me to program the characters to portray the subtle micro movements and eye contact that makes street harassment so scary for a woman walking alone. I tried my best to portray the overbearing nature of these character. I think going forward, if I have time, I will add more characters to the space to achieve more realism.

As a TRF major, I am constantly seeking inspiration and unique methods to tell stories and spread messages. Although this project was frustrating at times, I’m glad that I chose the medium of virtual reality to create this narrative.

*Turn volume all the way up, sound quality is quite low*