Preserving Local Fishing Heritage With a VR Educational Game: Integrating Sustainability and Cultural Identity Mechanisms

Once a cornerstone of Taiwan's economic development, the fishing industry is now facing challenges such as marine resource depletion and labor shortages.As the SDGs and ESG principles gain prominence, preserving local fishing culture and fostering regional identity have become critical issues.This study designed a VR game centered on Huanggang's century-old Benghuozi (Sulfur fire fishing) practice to promote cultural identity and belonging.Twenty-one university students in northern Taiwan participated in the VR experience and completed a questionnaire and qualitative survey.Results showed enhanced immersion in Benghuozi culture and stronger place identity and dependence on Huanggang fishing port.The VR experience also fostered deeper understanding of traditional fishing methods and active learning motivation.Overall, the culturally embedded VR game serves as a digital tool for cultural preservation with educational and sustainability value.