Focusing on virtual reality (VR), the authors of this book have gathered an team of engineers, social scientists and cultural theorists to give their views of this area of human communication in this medium. The first part introduces the reader to VR's state-of-the-art as well as future trends. In the next section, leading research scientists discuss how knowledge of communication can be used to build more effective and exciting communication applications of virtual reality. Looking ahead, the authors explore pioneering approaches to VR narratives, interpersonal communication, the use of 3D sound and the building of VR entertainment complexes. In the final section, the authors take the wider perspective - the psychological, social and cultural implications of virtual reality. Topics include communication issues such as: how will virtual reality influence perception of reality?; what are the legal issues defining communication in virtual reality?; and what kind of cultural trends will this technology encourage?