Integrating Memetics and Gamified Virtual Reality for the Digital Preservation of Cultural Heritage: The Case of Mo Jia Quan

This pilot study combines memetic analysis with a gamified virtual reality (VR) platform to explore the digital transmission of Mo Jia Quan, a traditional Chinese martial art. By identifying core cultural elements (memes) with strong transmissibility, the research developed a VR-based learning environment incorporating levels, challenges, and motion-captured martial routines to promote user engagement. Ten participants underwent a pre- and post-test evaluation, with preliminary statistical results suggesting improved cultural understanding after the VR experience. While these initial findings are promising, the study is positioned as an exploratory effort due to its limited sample size and scope. The contribution lies in proposing a theoretically grounded workflow—from memetic identification to immersive digital implementation—that can inform future research on intangible heritage preservation. The study also acknowledges the need for further validation and scalability assessment and aligns with open science principles to ensure the transparency and accessibility of its digital cultural outputs.