If you’re bored of the reality of everyday life or just want to get away from the stress of work/family then there has never been a better time to “escape”, with the help of a virtual reality (VR) headset.

Simply strap on a headset and immerse yourself in a reality so real you actually feel like you are walking on Mars or enjoying a spot of fishing on a quiet river.

And the majority of the big technology companies — Google, Facebook, Sony, Samsung and HTC — have launched or are about to launch a VR headset in Hong Kong, so there are plenty of options.

But what exactly is virtual reality?

Well, a VR headset aims to create a 3D reality in which you can walk around and interact with the environment without the sort of boundaries you’d get from a TV or computer.

For the headset to work you will need a PC, console or smartphone to run the app or game, and an input — head tracking, controllers, hand tracking, voice, on-device buttons or trackpads. Video is sent to the headset from the PC, console or smartphone.

VR Headsets come with different games and features. For example, Sony’s VR headset is linked to its PlayStation 4 and comes with about 30-40 games.

And remember, if you do buy a VR headset, don’t fall off the balcony at home exploring Mars.