Virtual reality (VR) allows users to enter computer generated 3D scenes that can be navigated and manipulated. Essential Virtual Reality fast shows readers what is and isn’t VR. The author provides an overview of the history of virtual reality and explains, in easy-to-understand terms, the concepts of computer graphics and how they are integral to VR systems. The importance of integrating human factors, such as vision, sound, touch and balance, is emphasized. Exploring actual VR systems, readers will learn about all the important aspects of virtual environments, including the hardware, software, and sound systems, as well as the latest VR techniques on the Internet.