Shaping the Future of VR Hand Interactions: Lessons Learned from Modern Methods

In virtual reality (VR), it is widely assumed that increased realism in hand-object interactions enhances user immersion and overall experience. However, recent studies challenge this assumption, suggesting that faithfully replicating real-world physics and visuals is not always necessary for improved usability or immersion. This has led to ambiguity for developers when choosing optimal hand interaction methods for different applications. Currently, there is a lack of comprehensive research to resolve this issue. This study aims to fill this gap by evaluating three contemporary VR hand interaction methods—Attachment, Penetration, and Torque—across two distinct task scenarios: simple manipulation tasks and more complex, precision-driven tasks. By examining key technical features, we identify the strengths and limitations of each method and propose development guidelines for future advancements. Our findings reveal that while Attachment, with its simplified control mechanisms, is well-suited for commercial applications, Penetration and Torque show promise for next-generation interactions. The insights gained from our study provide practical guidance for developers and researchers seeking to balance realism, usability, and user satisfaction in VR environments.