NPSNET: Four user interface paradigms for entity control in a virtual world

The Department of Computer Science, Naval Postgraduate School, has been researching networked shared environments for the last four years. The NPSNET series, our current family of virtual worlds, emphasizes ground-based and low-flying networked entity simulation. We have developed four distinct user interface paradigms for NPSNET (keyboard with mouse, dial/button box, SpaceBall, stick and throttle), the choices governed by available equipment, the entity to be controlled, the purpose of the virtual world, sponsor request, and previous experience. Each paradigm has strengths and weaknesses for different purposes and entities. A wide spectrum of users has provided feedback on the various paradigms, under learning conditions ranging from training in our laboratory, minimal instruction at demonstrations like SIGGRAPH '91 and '93, and a user's guide provided with the software distribution. NPSNET has served as a networked game, surrogate crew station, analytical model display, out-the-window and sensor display, and command and control tool. Different users and operational platforms demand different interfaces. From these varied user experiences, we have developed anecdotal guidelines for developing virtual world interfaces. This paper examines the