AirWalk: a novel magical locomotion technique

Abstract

Locomotion techniques in Extended Reality (XR) hold immense potential to transcend physical limitations and amplify user engagement in virtual environments. However, existing methods often struggle to balance intuitive interaction with creative freedom, particularly in constrained spaces. To address this, we present AirWalk, a novel locomotion technique that empowers users to dynamically generate floating platforms through hand gestures and controllers, enabling hybrid walking-and-flying navigation. AirWalk combines the precision of step-based movement with the flexibility of mid-air traversal, allowing users to craft personalized pathways in real time. By using the idea of “conjuring” pathways, drawing inspiration from the Ben 10 cartoon, our technique blends practical movement with a sense of magic and imagination. We followed a user-focused design process and explored how AirWalk could work as a new and engaging way to move in virtual environments.