Virtual reality will experience a mighty quantum leap after the invention of computer minds.
Even before then, VR may become as important as (and begin to replace) actual reality.
Once integrated computer minds become powerful enough (they would have to be extremely powerful), they could evolve a new type of awareness:
It will become possible to create perfectly detailed simulations of any situation, entirely from a mind's own memories and subconscious reactions. This method will work even if the memories are vague or contradictory.
First, the system will create a large number of semi-random simulations, containing only an outline and elements of the target simulation. The same computer-simulated mind will experience them all in turn or in parallel, its memory erased after each simulation.
Initially, most simulations will be jumbles of mostly meaningless perceptions. Whichever one appears the most accurate or relevant will become the basis for the next round of simulations.
Step by step, a completely convincing simulation can be evolved from a subject's reactions and perceptions.
There is one problem: Perverse Paths. An endless chain of subtle mind traps, absurd but compelling perceptions, and dead ends.
By implication, not just the subject mind but its surrounding virtual universe will have to be recreated - and most possible universes are meaningless.
Most of the remaining universe simulations generated in this way will only give the impression of obeying consistent laws. Their reality will be unlike anything humanity has yet experienced.
For every logical scenario, there are millions of absurd but unpredictably compelling situations. The test subject could easily be changed or damaged beyond repair, but wouldn't necessarily realize it.
The result of a top-down process, the final simulation would usually contain pernicious hidden flaws.
Just because everything has gone right up until now, doesn't mean a fatal inconsistency won't appear in the next instant. It may even be likely.
Human minds rely on induction, a bottom-up process which only works because they happen to be embedded in a low-entropy, consistent universe.
A Hyperception simulation would become increasingly unstable, and require ever more calculations to sustain itself. As soon as the simulation is left to its own devices, inconsistencies will appear, and the simulation will crash or worse.
Probably the best hard SF novel ever written: Infinite Thunder by Jack Arcalon.
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