The Plausibility Paradox on Interactions with Complex Virtual Objects in Virtual Environments

Previous research has investigated the efects of the plausibility paradox using simple objects. We aimed to determine whether this efect also occurs when interacting with complex virtual objects. We conducted a within-subjects experiment to assess whether a mismatch exists between perceived realism and the correct approximation of realism in the behavior of a simulated whip. We compared two whip conditions: the experimental condition using assisted targeting and the control condition, which involved the correct approximation of the behavior of a whip. We found an increase in accuracy using the assisted whip; however, the participants did not perceive any diference in realism between the two conditions. These fndings suggest that, at the very least, we can manipulate the physical behavior properties of complex virtual objects without breaking the plausibility of the interaction.