Eye movement characteristics and visual fatigue assessment of virtual reality games with different interaction modes

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the eye movement characteristics and visual fatigue of virtual reality games with different interaction modes. Eye movement data were recorded using the built-in eye tracker of the VR device and eye movement parameters were calculated from the recorded raw data. The Visual Fatigue Scales and Simulator Sickness Questionnaire were used to subjectively assess visual fatigue and overall discomfort of the VR experience. Sixteen male and 17 female students were recruited for this study. Results showed that both the primary and 360 mode of VR could cause visual fatigue after 30 min of gameplay, with significant differences observed in eye movement behavior between the two modes. The primary mode was more likely to cause visual fatigue, as shown by objective measurements of blinking and pupil diameter. Fixation and saccade parameters also showed significant differences between the two modes, possibly due to the different interaction modes employed in the 360 mode. Further research is required to examine the effects of different content and interactive modes of VR on visual fatigue, as well as to develop more objective measures for assessing it.