True virtual reality, offering not only visual but tactile experiences in imaginary environments, is still a few years away for mainstream users.
But an amazing new short film illustrates just how amazing VR will be when companies like Oculus Rift and others get it right.
[seealso slug="google-virtual-exhibitions"]
However, in this case (a fictional setting), the end result of immersing yourself too deeply in VR gaming environments could lead to startling and even tragic revelations.
Written and directed by Federico Heller, Uncanny Valley takes place in a world of VR addicts who do nothing all day but live out elaborate first-person shooter scenarios in virtual reality.
But unlike some dystopian visions of the future, where high tech is situated in spartan, antiseptic settings, these tech addicts are holed up in an abandoned building, living out their VR fantasies while dressed in filthy, tattered clothing.
Running about seven minutes, the film is visually stunning and its portrayal of VR users of the near-future comes off as incredibly believable (particularly the addiction aspect).
As for the plot, it's difficult to get into too much detail without spoiling it for you. But if the combination of VR technology, aliens and battle androids sounds appealing to you, this film delivers.
Let's hope this look at one possible future of virtual reality is way off the mark, otherwise the future could be a lot bleaker than even any of the current crop of post-apocalyptic films predict.