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Introduction Virtual reality (VR) offers new ways to support user experience and social interaction; however, certain user groups remain underexplored. This study focuses on the Otaku community, a socially and culturally distinctive group often overlooked in VR research. Methods Using a longitudinal, user-centered qualitative approach combining semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis, this research investigates the evolving psychological needs of Otaku users in VR. Results The study identifies three modes of user experience: the Sanctuary, the Sandbox, and the Bridge. Together, they form the Spectrum of Dynamic Needs framework, which conceptualizes how VR design can adapt to users’ changing emotional and social states. The findings indicate that avatars, controllable connectivity, and psychological safety are key factors for meaningful and well-being–oriented engagement in virtual spaces. Discussion Beyond the Otaku context, this research contributes to human–VR interaction by offering design principles for creating culturally sensitive and user-defined virtual environments that promote long-term well-being and inclusion.
Zhao et al. (Fri,) studied this question.