Merging presence and narrative engagement: Is VR storytelling the response to the challenges of climate change communication?

The emergence of virtual reality (VR) storytelling has been seen by many as an opportunity to increase the persuasive power of narratives with prosocial goals, particularly in the domain of climate change communication. In this chapter, we synthesize previous research suggesting that VR stories can increase involvement with climate change by reducing perceived psychological distance and making messages more emotional, personal, credible, and enjoyable. However, as suggested by recent evidence, the interplay between feelings of presence in the story's world and engagement with the narrative is complex: immersive stories may not always be effective or have unintended or even counterproductive effects. We discuss the underexplored implications of the interaction between sensory and psychological immersion in the story, and point out challenges to developing more comprehensive models of narrative persuasion that can inform the effective use of VR storytelling in climate change communication.