Educational trip to the forest
in virtual reality
Visually impressive work of 3D graphic designers and the effect of successful content optimization.

Forest Research Institute
The Forest Research Institute, celebrating its 90th anniversary at the time of the project implementation, deals with research and development works in the field of afforestation and restoration of forests, care, use, as well as ecology, nature protection, genetics, economics, and forest policy.

Challenge
Designing 5 detailed ecosystems in virtual reality.
- In the application we will visit Bory Tucholskie – pine forest, Dąbrowy Krotoszyńskie – oak forest, Białowieża Primeval Forest – broadleaved forest, Karkonosze – spruce forest, as well as the area “In the forest at home” – beech forest
- Appropriate ecosystems were to be built of characteristic, detailed mapped plants characteristic for each layer of the forest: undergrowth, undergrowth and layer of trees.


The aim of the application is to familiarize young people with the world of nature through interesting and varied interactions performed while completing 30 virtual tasks.
Therefore, in reducing and transferring to the world of even the smallest inhabitants of the forest, the students were to be helped by drunk elixirs or the miraculous spores of mushrooms. The idea was to be able to take a close look at every part of the ecosystem during a virtual tour.
Solution
Smooth use and up to 120 realistic models
- Achieving high efficiency of the application while maintaining a detailed recreated environment
- A variety of animated models enlivening the space
- Various interactions and engaging activities for a wide group of users

Process

Gathering project assumptions

Defining user journey

Designing the gameplay

3D graphics creation
and programming

Adaptation to target devices

The simpler the models (solids) we create, the better the simulator’s smoothness will be.


Technology



Effects
- Success # 1 | Visual wealth
The application was created for the Forest Research Institute to map existing ecosystems with accuracy to smaller insects or plants. In the context of designing VR experiences, it was a challenge that significantly developed the skills of the Giant Lazer development team, effectively enforcing the quality of gameplay elements based on the customer’s visual materials.
- Success # 2 | Educational mini-games
Thanks to the high optimization of the program, we were able to provide smooth gameplay for users who are focused on learning through play. By using the application, students and other visitors to the Institute have the opportunity to play the role of foresters and take on such time-limited challenges as hammering badges from the numerator to the forehead of pine trunks, picking berries, or careful segregation of garbage.
- Success # 3 | User-friendly application
The Forest Research Institute is planning to organize educational activities during which participants will be able to learn about fragments of rich, Polish nature. The participant using the prepared stand, and the participants watching his struggle on the wall screen, jointly develop ecological awareness. Everything under the supervision of an IBL educator who provides specialist knowledge and support.