Rising River is an AI-integrated virtual reality (VR) experience that transforms personal reflection into a dynamic and interactive journey. Driven by generative AI, the experience customizes narrative content based on the spoken input of each player, opening new possibilities for individualized emotional exploration. Set in a symbolic landscape shaped by water and memory, players gradually restore a dried-up river, uncovering hidden aspects of the self. Drawing from Jungian shadow theory [Peterson and Seligman 2004] and the VIA Classification of Character Strengths and Virtues [VIA Institute on Character 2023], Rising River blends psychological storytelling with immersive design. Developed by an interdisciplinary team, the project explores how AI and VR together can offer poetic, immersive, and personalized paths toward self-awareness. This paper details the conceptual development, visual design, technical implementation and therapeutic potential of Rising River as an experimental model for interactive narrative therapy.

VR, interactive narrative, Jungian shadow work, AI-generated storytelling, self-reflection, therapeutic game