what will it really mean if some of these predictions do come to pass? >> all the virtual reality experiences i've had have been very kind of clunky and gamy. the question i have is through something like virtual reality can you find something that's as believable an experience as real life? >> the stanford virtual human interaction lab is the state-of-the-art facility housing some of the most immersive and advanced virtual reality technology available. >> this is the multisensory room that we're very excited about here. >> reporter: director jeremy bailenson and his team are exploring just how real a virtual experience can be. >> that is the coolest thing. >> so the question is does virtual reality feel real and is it real enough that it's going to change your behavior and psychologically affect you? >> yeah. >> and i think the first world we're going to put you in will answer that question. >> how does that feel? >> it's like i hear your voice but there's nobody here. this is so like the matrix right now. >> what i want you to do is look down. do you see that piece of wood? >> yeah.