Balancing the Virtual World: Exploring the Efficacy of a Virtual Layer in Mitigating Cyber Sickness

Cyber Sickness (CS), a discomfort experienced by 30–80% of virtual environment users, poses a significant barrier to the widespread adoption of Virtual Reality (VR) technology. This study evaluates the potential of software modifications to mitigate CS symptoms. Specifically, it examines a software layer inspired by the “Seetroën Glasses” prototype. 80 students were subjected to VR roller coaster simulations to test the efficacy of this layer. The findings indicate that the software layer not only improved user performance but also prolonged the duration before participants opted to discontinue the VR experience by approximately two rounds. Although the layer does not grant complete immunity to CS, it notably postpones the onset of symptoms. The research shows that the virtual test environment is suitable for investigating CS and suggests that the software layer prototype holds promise for diminishing the adverse effects associated with CS.