As we navigate an increasingly digitized world, Virtual Reality (VR) is proving to be the New Frontier of communication and social exchange. Among these spaces, VRChat arguably remains the most vibrant. Here, users playfully collaborate, interact, and perform in ways that challenge and transform conventional social practices. This immersive virtual space hosts over 130,000 users who participate in a myriad of events, including dance parties and social gatherings, across continents.
Ru, a 48-year-old trans woman from rural Ohio, loves VRChat. She quickly realizes it is a far safer world than her daily life. For her, the virtual world is an escape and a community where she feels she belongs. As a result, “I get raped so much less now,” she says. This emphasizes the platform’s immense power to shape a safer social ecosystem.
Alongside the many negatives, the digital space has created really special opportunities for romantic connection. Benji and Luna, who originally connected on VRChat, formed a long-distance romantic relationship that continued outside of cyberspace. Their story is representative of an increasingly common phenomenon for those who build in-person connections from online relationships. Aside from hosting informal raves, the couple uses VRChat to expand their drug use, sometimes with substances like MDMA used in a social environment.
Inside this bustling environment sits Ru’s virtual nightlife hub, Kaleidosky. The club has an otherworldly aesthetic—a psychedelic kaleidoscope design with geometric fractal visions that look like a DMT trip. This aesthetic transforms users into an alternative party universe that engages and stimulates their senses. The allure of Kaleidosky resonates with many who seek new forms of expression and connection in a digital age.
Heelix, a 61-year-old veteran VR DJ from Berlin, has devoted at least 5,000 hours to fulfilling his passion in VRChat. That’s roughly 200 days of continuous exploring and making in that virtual world! His avatar depicts a colorful young female anime character. In his immersive performances at virtual raves, this distinct creative choice enables him to resonate with partygoers beyond just creating catchy tracks. His aggressive use of the platform has raised private concerns as well. His goal now is to learn how to moderate his drinking while engaging in these immersive experiences.
Zeus Tipado is a PhD candidate specializing in neuroscience. He views VRChat as a massive social experiment that brings people of all shapes, sizes, and walks of life together. He addresses a growing worry within the academic community about the psychological effects of creating that atmosphere.
The draw of VRChat goes beyond just gamers seeking a new creative outlet. Lichbait, an erotic dancer on the platform, has successfully cultivated an online persona that attracts subscribers seeking entertainment. Similarly, James Campbell promotes virtual events on VRChat, including the well-known Shelter map, which hosts electronic music parties that draw large crowds.
In January, VRChat implemented age verification measures to keep children out of the game’s adult-oriented spaces. This new ruling further demonstrates the platform’s commitment to user safety. It’s what keeps its adult-oriented offerings fresh and exciting.
38-year-old Dublin IT worker Maria Balaet is a great example of the dedication that some users have to the VR community. She is a frequent participant in VRChat weekend parties. Most times, she doesn’t head to bed until 8 am, filled with the spirit of fellowship and music.
As users traverse this new immersive digital environment they will have both amazing experience and immersive dangers. O’Rourke warns of the chaotic nature of some interactions: “There’s a lot of weird shit going on, and it can be hard to adjust, but if you do it’s magical.” Above all else, he argues for self-regulation and moderation to help improve your experience in this vast, free-for-all space.
Even though entering VRChat’s adult world can feel overwhelming and difficult at times, many users focus on the successes. DeityAnubis, the creator of PSHQ, calls it a lively adult world that celebrates sexual positivity. He points out its incredible emphasis on music, forging an inclusive and exciting environment for all. The commonalities of music, dancing, lighting, interaction, and inclusivity just add to what makes areas like this so special in VRChat.
There are darker aspects to consider. Tipado recounts a moment from his experience: “Everyone was watching Power Rangers. I found a nice place to sit down on the sofa, and then this guy comes up in front of everybody and tells people to take off their clothes.” Incidents like these highlight the need for constant conversations around consent and behavior in these digital arenas.
Often, the capacity to self-moderate becomes an indispensable skill when interacting with such a nuanced world as VRChat. O’Rourke asserts that those who struggle with moderation may find themselves lost in an endless loop of partying without resolution: “If you’re not able to self-moderate and police yourself, it’s endless. You’re not going to win; you’re not going to see the end of the party.”
The community surrounding VRChat continues to evolve as users explore their identities and forge connections. For many like Ru and Benji, the platform serves as a beacon of hope and acceptance—a place where they can express themselves without fear.
Leave a Reply