Beyond the Bones: Exploring ancient life through VR
Step into a high-tech lab and uncover the secrets of fossils through hands-on research in this immersive VR experience
A project by Karam Alsawaftah, Kim-Sophia Kober, Linus Ziesel, Mohammed Najm and Riccardo “Ricci” Ligouri
Supervised by Prof. Dr Frank Gabler and Prof. Philip Hausmeier
Project completed in Semester 3 | Winter 2024/2025
About the Project
Beyond the Bones is an educational VR experience that redefines fossil exploration by placing visitors in the role of a modern-day palaeontologist. Built for the Meta Quest and developed using Unity, the project centres on the Psittacosaurus mongoliensis fossil from the Senckenberg Museum in Frankfurt. Users are transported into a futuristic research lab, equipped with a range of interactive tools such as scanners, electron microscopes and precision measurement devices—all designed to allow users to investigate fossil structures hands-on.
The aim is to move beyond passive viewing. Players are invited to engage in scientific inquiry as they uncover the backstory and biological significance of ancient fossils through carefully designed tasks and interactions. Based on a vertical slice, the VR environment not only supports independent exploration but also uses visual and audio cues to gently guide users without breaking immersion.
The experience was designed with balance in mind—combining gamification and scientific accuracy. One major challenge was maintaining clarity whilst still allowing for autonomy. The team solved this by integrating user-friendly interaction flows supported by feedback systems that adapt to the user’s actions.
By encouraging players to “revive” prehistoric life through digital interpretation, Beyond the Bones bridges the gap between science and storytelling. It is a prime example of how VR can make educational content dynamic, memorable and deeply engaging. Plans for future expansion include additional fossil studies, advanced simulation tools and broader curriculum support to expand both its reach and relevance.
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