Advanced Concepts
Uncanny valley
A proposed effect in which an almost-human appearance can feel more unsettling than a clearly artificial one.
Example
A nearly realistic digital face has movements that make viewers uncomfortable.
Why people use it
It helps explain why near-realistic characters can make some viewers uncomfortable.
What you'll hear
“The face looks almost real, but something feels off.”
What this means for you
Test realistic avatars with the intended audience rather than assuming realism improves comfort.
Can you control it?
No
No direct control. This describes a wider issue, concept or result rather than something you can simply switch on or off in a tool.
Common questions
- Can movement matter as much as appearance?
- Yes. Unnatural timing, expressions or movement can make an otherwise realistic character feel strange.
- Does everybody react the same way?
- No. Reactions vary with the person, culture and the character's appearance or movement.
- Can voice and appearance clash?
- Yes. A mismatch between how a character looks and sounds can make it feel less natural.