Nisida Coast to Coast
University of Naples, the Juvenile Penal Institution of Nisida, Lazzarelle Cooperative
Potential tourists and interested parties
Project TypeVirtual Reality
ScopeTourism & Education
A virtual reality gaming experience showcasing the wonders of the island of Nisida, intertwining myths, legends, and tourist information with a message of hope and redemption.
Innovatively narrating the beauties of the unexplored island of Nisida, home to the Juvenile Penal Institution and its young inmates.
A VR game that, through a reimagining of the myth connected to Nisida and Posillipo, showcases the island's wonders and concludes with a positive message.
The project
The Nisida Coast to Coast project is an innovative virtual reality experience born from the collaboration between the University of Naples, the Juvenile Penal Institution on the island of Nisida, and the Lazzarelle Cooperative in the Gulf of Naples. This initiative aims to narrate the tourist beauties of the island, inaccessible to the public, through an immersive storytelling that draws from myths and legends associated with the place, while also delivering a message of hope and resilience for the young inmates.
About the design
The story underlying the project is the romantic and tragic legend linked to the island, involving Posillipo, a handsome and kind young man, and Nisida, a country girl as beautiful as she was wicked. The legend tells that although Posillipo was courted by many women, he fell hopelessly in love with Nisida, who remained cold and indifferent. After years of suffering, Posillipo decided to end his pain by throwing himself into the sea, but fate transformed him into the promontory washed by the waters of the Gulf of Naples. Nisida was also transformed into a small islet opposite Posillipo, destined to remain close yet forever separated, a symbol of unrequited love. In the virtual reality experience, players live this legend firsthand, but with a twist that changes the ending through their intervention. The aim is to symbolize that with willpower, it is possible to change one's destiny, just as the young inmates of the Juvenile Penal Institution can redeem themselves and transform their future lives.
Inside the experience
In the immersive world of Nisida Coast to Coast, the user takes on the role of a modern explorer destined to alter the course of the ancient legend linked to the island. Guided by Posillipo, the embodiment of perseverance and sincere love, they will confront Mythical Fate itself, represented as an enigmatic figure leading them into the frozen depths of Nisida's abyss.
From the dark, cold waters of the abyss, the user must ascend, collecting sparkling gems along the way, symbols of the island's hidden treasures. Each gem represents a step towards the goal: melting Nisida's heart of ice. As they progress, the island's tourist beauties are unlocked, filling the environment with their warmth and beauty.
The player's role is crucial: through their effort and determination, Nisida's heart can thaw and rediscover its humanity, reciprocating Posillipo's love. Fate, surprised by the player's perseverance and will to change the story, will underscore a universal message: our path is not predestined; we are the true architects of our destiny. An invitation to believe in the power of redemption and personal transformation, inspiring hope and resilience.