ABSTRACT
In this chapter, we are going to take a look inside the most important element of VR-the 3D graphics. Creating realistic-looking 3D graphics (a process called rendering) poses a particular challenge for VR system builders because, unlike making a 3D movie or TV show, we must endow our system with a capability for real-time interactivity. In the past, this has meant that VR graphics engines1 had difficulty in achieving that really realistic look. Not any more! For this, we have to thank the computer-game industry. It was the multi-billion dollar market demand for games that accelerated the development of some spectacular hardware rendering engines, available now at knockdown prices. VR system builders can now expect to offer features such as stereopsis, shadowing, high dynamic lighting range, procedural textures and Phong shading-rendered in high resolution and in real time and with full interactivity.
