Abstract: One aspect of the invention is a method for presenting a virtual reality setting for an interaction. An example of the method includes presenting a streaming video of a real-world background scene, and presenting a series of individual video clips that are joined into the appearance of a continuous streaming image of a real-world character. The method also includes inputting an operator's choice of action or inaction, and updating a current state based on the operator's action or inaction. The method further includes using the current state by a decision logic to determine a response in the setting by the character, and using the current state by the decision logic to determine a selection of how to control video of the character and how to control video of the background. The method may also include simultaneously presenting a three-dimensional representation and a two-dimensional representation of a playing area.

Abstract: A server-based video game system maintains a number of video game characters having computer-simulated genetic (“digenetic”) structures that prescribe a number of physical and cognitive performance traits and characteristics for the video game characters. The system allows end users to establish remote online access to the game characters (via, e.g., the Internet). The results of competitions and training activities are based upon the game characters' digenetics, the conditions of the game environment, and the game characters' current levels of physical and cognitive development. The game characters' performance capabilities and cognition are updated continuously in response to the results of competitions and training activities. Competition and training results can be processed by the game servers and transmitted to the end user presentation devices for graphics rendering. In this manner, the video game system need not be burdened by network latency and other delays.