Virtual Reality (VR) technology has come a long way since its inception, but it still lags behind the level depicted in popular anime and manga series such as Sword Art Online. In this article, we will explore when VR is likely to reach that level of immersion and realism, and what advancements are needed to achieve it.

One of the key factors that contribute to the level of immersion in VR is the resolution and refresh rate of the displays used. Currently, most VR headsets have screens with a resolution of 2160 x 2160 pixels per eye, which can lead to blurry images and a less realistic experience. However, there are plans to develop displays with resolutions of up to 8K x 8K pixels per eye, which could significantly improve the level of immersion in VR.

Another important factor is the tracking system used by VR headsets. In Sword Art Online, characters can move around freely and interact with their environment in a way that feels incredibly realistic. This requires advanced tracking technology that can accurately track the movements of the user’s body and hands, as well as their surroundings. While some VR headsets use cameras to track movement, others use sensors or ultrasonic technology, which can be less accurate.

Haptic feedback is also an important aspect of VR immersion. In Sword Art Online, characters feel the weight of their weapons and the impact of their attacks on their surroundings. This requires advanced haptic feedback systems that can simulate the sensations of touch in a way that feels natural to the user. While there have been some advancements in this area, such as the development of gloves with built-in sensors, there is still a long way to go before we see the level of haptic feedback depicted in Sword Art Online.

Finally, one of the biggest challenges facing VR technology is the cost. Currently, high-end VR headsets can be quite expensive, and most people do not have the means to invest in them. However, as technology advances and production becomes more efficient, we can expect prices to come down, making VR more accessible to a wider audience.

In conclusion, while virtual reality technology has made significant strides in recent years, it still lags behind the level of immersion and realism depicted in popular anime and manga series such as Sword Art Online. However, with advancements in display resolution, tracking technology, haptic feedback, and cost, we can expect to see VR reach that level of immersion in the not-too-distant future.