What Is the Difference Between 4D and Virtual Reality?

In the entertainment world, producers are always looking to create the next big thing. Fans love to go to movies, shows, and amusement parks and experience a realistic experience. Interactive shows and rides are some of the most popular attractions, but when you are looking for a ride to enjoy, you may become confused with the terms 4D and virtual reality. These are two very different forms of entertainment and both will continue to expand and be part of mainstream culture.

Definitions of 4D and Virtual Reality

The term "4D" stands for the fourth dimension, which is more as a novelty term to associate interactive features in attractions. At 4D shows, audiences wear 3D glasses and theaters are equipped to shake, spray water and even spray air at audience members to create different effects. Some shows may even introduce smells to add more to the atmosphere.
Virtual reality's main purpose is to transport people into a completely new world. Also known as interactive simulation, virtual reality often features a headset that participants wear and a 3D environment they can interact in. Users can explore virtual recreations of past places, and can even touch and interact with objects in those worlds.

History

4D began as a way for audiences to get involved and interact with movies. Some of the first 4D attractions include Disney's "Honey I Shrunk the Audience" at multiple Walt Disney World theme parks in 1994. Universal Parks also had a 4D show entitled "Terminator 2: Battle Across Time" in 1996.
Virtual reality began much as a thing of fiction and was featured in science fiction novels and essays. The first experience of virtual reality came in 1962 with the Sensorama that was developed by Morton Heilig. His goal was to encompass all 5 senses into one virtual experience. Since then, virtual reality has developed into more of an entertainment aspect with virtual video games and rides all over the world.

Types

Some of the current popular 4D shows include "SpongeBob SquarePants 4D," "The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man," "Shrek 4D" and "It's Tough to be A Bug."
Virutal reality is mostly used in home video games like Nintendo's Virtual Boy and the Virtual Reality I Glasses Personal Display System that works with multiple video game set-ups. The concept is featured heavily in movies including the "Matrix" trilogy, "The Lawnmower Man" and "Total Recall". For amusement parks, Disney's Quest is a multistory arcade featuring different virtual reality games that players can compete against each other in.

Potential of Virtual Reality

Virtual reality has the potential to expand into a national phenomenon. The use of virtual reality can allow people to create their own fantasy world and if the technology gets advanced enough, live in it. That technology is a long way away, and many companies are focusing on video game production rather then realistic creations.

4D Popularity Still Going Strong

4D shows are increasingly becoming a popular attraction at multiple theme parks. The rides themselves require people to sit down, so it becomes a relaxing and entertaining way to enjoy the show. "Honey, I Shrunk the Audience" has been open for over 10 years at Walt Disney World and continues to remain popular with visiting guests.

Resources

• Disney--Home of 4D and Virtual Reality Rides