An exhibit at the Hong Kong Science Museum boasts virtual reality technology which beams computer games into the next century Fancy a flight in space in a parcel-delivering race, or swimming among sharks while hunting for sunken treasure? Games, of course, but unlike any game you have played before.
In these games, on display as part of a new exhibit at the Hong Kong Science Museum, you feel as if you are actually in space or underwater, thanks to the thrilling new technology of virtual reality.
Virtual reality (VR) allows you to view or interact with a simulated three-dimensional world in real time.
The new museum exhibit is the popular Mandala Virtual Reality Module System which consists of a computer, a video camera and a colour monitor.
Visitors enter the module and see themselves appear on a computer screen. As they wave their hands, crouch or sway their bodies they find themselves playing the lead role in a software programme.
There are three exciting scenarios: in Turbo Kourier you float in space in a competition to deliver parcels; in Sharkbait you are looking for sunken treasure in shark-infested seas; and in Virtual Drums you pound out your own percussion concert by hitting drums and bells on the screen.