Rising River VR is an AI-driven, self-reflective virtual reality experience that guides players through an introspective journey inspired by Jungian shadow theory and the VIA 24 Character Strengths framework. Players use their words and voice to restore a dried-up river, exploring hidden aspects of the self through fixed and generative AI-driven questions. The experience culminates in the appearance of a giant fish, symbolizing their shadow self, challenging them to confront and integrate their subconscious identity.
With its fusion of narrative therapy, AI interactivity, and immersive VR storytelling, Rising River VR presents an innovative approach to personal exploration and emotional reflection. The project explores the question: Can virtual reality and AI make Jungian shadow work more accessible, engaging, and transformative?
At its core, Rising River VR translates shadow work into an interactive, immersive journey, using natural metaphors—caves, water, and fluid motion—to represent the subconscious, psychological uncertainty, and self-discovery. Inspired by Joseph Campbell’s Hero’s Journey, the game presents an archetypal path where players descend into a metaphorical underworld, face their hidden selves, and emerge with renewed understanding.
The final twist—that players have been traveling inside the belly of the giant fish all along—reframes the experience. Instead of confronting an external force, they realize they have always been within their own shadow. This subversion of control promotes acceptance and self-integration, aligning with Jungian theory’s goal of transforming the shadow from a feared entity into a recognized part of the self.
Rising River VR is built in Unreal Engine 5 and integrates real-time AI-driven interactions, speech recognition, and procedural narrative generation. Key technical features include:
Players begin in a vast, dry riverbed within a dark cave, evoking a sense of mystery and introspection. Their task is to restore the river by offering words representing their emotions, thoughts, and self-perceptions. These words materialize as floating energy orbs, which AI-powered fish consume, setting the river into motion.
As the boat moves forward, AI-generated dialogue guides players through a series of reflective questions. These prompts shift based on earlier responses, ensuring a unique journey for each participant. Environmental elements react dynamically—fluid-like text effects, bioluminescent vegetation, shifting reflections—creating a dreamlike, ever-evolving landscape of subconscious exploration.
The experience culminates in the revelation of the giant fish, representing the player’s shadow self. In a final symbolic moment, the player realizes they have been traveling within the fish’s body all along, challenging them to reframe their understanding of the shadow—not as something to battle, but as an integral part of their psyche.