Can You Make the Cut? Exploring the Effect of Frequency of Cuts in Virtual Reality Storytelling

Straight cuts are a storytelling tool that is used to direct the viewer’s attention towards the main events of the plot. This research evaluated the effect of frequency of straight cuts that are controlled by the system (rather than by the viewer) on the viewer’s experience of VR (i.e., presence, narrative immersion, sense of agency, simulator sickness, and enjoyment). We used both quantitative and qualitative methods to examine the viewer’s experience and understanding of a one-minute long VR movie in three versions (i.e., 15 cuts/min; 8 cuts/min; no cuts). The study illustrates that sense of agency, enjoyment, and understanding of the story are influenced by the frequency of straight cuts. Also, straight cuts focus viewers on events in the story, which in turn helps them understand the plot better. However, we need a balanced frequency of cuts to preserve the sense of agency of users. Finally, the study highlights that the viewers’ experience is a result of an interplay between narrative immersion, sense of agency, and presence.