A Breakdown of Virtual Reality Arcade Games

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Did you know virtual reality (VR) has reached 171 million people worldwide?

It’s no wonder the virtual reality industry is one of the most discussed technologies. VR can help your business maximize sales, make your game room more innovative and challenging, and stand out from competitors.

Whether you own a bowling alley, skating rink, or an entire Family Entertainment Center (FEC), adding virtual reality attractions to your business is a worthwhile investment.

VR is a great investment for your business.

Read on as we break down the different types of virtual arcade games.

What is Virtual Reality Gaming?

VR gaming refers to a new generation of computer-based games that provide players with an immersive, first-person perspective of game action. The games allow users to enjoy the thrill of realistic racing environments or to run and battle zombies, robots, and each other in an arena. The main differentiator between these attractions is whether they need staff (attended) or not (unattended). Let’s walk through the benefits and drawbacks of each.

Attended vs. Unattended VR

Attended VR Attractions

Units that need an attendant do best in busy and well-staffed places. These locations can promote their attractions to visitors and have the staff to manage them well.

Benefits of Attended

More group play capability. Sell as part of an attraction package.
It occupies a larger space, allowing it to serve as a centerpiece.
Often has a variety of games to choose from.
It allows for a better understanding of the game before playing, thanks to the attendants.

Drawbacks of Attended

Less revenue per square foot, on average.
Slower throughput.
The cost of the attendant.

Unattended VR Attractions

Many places lack sufficient staff to operate an attended attraction effectively. This makes it hard for the attraction to perform well. If you don’t have the staff to manage this experience, unattended VR arcade games might be the best option.

Benefits of Unattended

Usually, a lower cost of equipment and better revenue per square foot.
Easy to understand and ride for all ages.
It doesn’t require a group to play.
No attendant.
Looks like an arcade game.
Major arcade factories support them.

Drawbacks of Unattended

Customers may need assistance understanding how to start the game or properly set up a headset.
While a big game, they don’t stand up against other large arcade games.

The easiest and most proven way for any location to incorporate VR is to choose a form factor already familiar, such as an arcade game. Raw Thrills’ King Kong of Skull Island VR, LAI Game’s Virtual Rabbids: Ultra HD, and Triotech’s Storm are all arcade games with VR. In most instances, the guest can walk up and play without requiring additional assistance, education, or staffing.

Create a VR Destination

One of the design tips from our post on Game Room Design is to group games to create specific areas. A VR section can be highly engaging and eye-catching. Once you create a special area in your FEC for VR, you can show the latest products. You can run fun promotions and provide memorable experiences for your customers. But how do you ensure everything runs smoothly and minimize potential risks or issues?

Here’s a practical tip: station your unattended VR attractions near an employee station. Knowledgeable team members nearby can maintain the equipment and ensure its proper functioning. They’ll perform regular checks, promptly respond to any issues or malfunctions, and provide a seamless VR adventure for your customers.

By having employees near the VR area, your customers can rest easy knowing that the equipment is well-maintained, trustworthy, and ready to transport them into virtual realms. This instills confidence and guarantees your valued guests a more enjoyable and satisfying experience.

Top Unattended VR Attractions

Raw Thrills – Godzilla Kaiju Wars VR

Godzilla™ Kaiju Wars VR is a highly interactive VR game that boasts the Thrill-D NXT™ motion platform, patented force-feedback blasters, wind and vibration effects, 6-channel Earthshaker™ audio, and features the massive 2X65” GigaScreen™ video displays – to suck in a never-ending stream of players.

Raw Thrills – King Kong of Skull Island™ VR

Raw Thrills has taken the virtual reality experience to the next level with King Kong of Skull Island™ VR. This cinematic VR adventure weaves advanced hand interactivity, exciting motion seat action, and dazzling visual effects into one show-stopping unattended cabinet. Three immersive episodes explore the mysteries and dangers that lurk across Skull Island.

Raw Thrills – MotoGP VR

The smash-hit MotoGP triumphantly returns to the arcade with a new full-tilt, full-throttle thrill ride! Remastered for an ultra-realistic, 360° VR experience, MotoGP VR features an authentic MotoGP motorcycle available in four colors, ten updated international circuits, 12 remodeled bikes, and superstar riders like Fabio Quartararo, attractive LED lighting, a mounted wind simulator, and the option to link up to eight cabinets for competitive multiplayer races.

Andamiro – SpongeBob SquarePants VR Bubble Coaster

SpongeBob VR Bubble Coaster is a new, exciting, unattended VR attraction from Andamiro USA and virtual reality entertainment leader Rilix—the game ships with three scenic rides that immerse guests in a Bikini Bottom adventure like never before.

LAI Games – Virtual Rabbids Ultra HD

Virtual Rabbids: The Big Ride was the industry’s first attendant-free VR attraction for arcades and FECs. LAI Games was developed from the ground up to operate like any other coin-op amusement game; The Big Ride was created in partnership with leading game developer Ubisoft.

LAI Games -Asphalt 9 Legends Arcade VR

Experience the electrifying realm of Asphalt 9 Legends Arcade, the immensely popular driving simulator, as it ventures into the virtual domain. Prepare to immerse yourself in an unparalleled driving adventure that elevates the thrill to new heights. Witness breathtaking VR visuals that transport you into a world where reality and fantasy merge seamlessly.

Triotech – The Storm™

The Storm™ is a unique VR gaming experience with hand gesture technology and competitive gameplay. This operator-free two-motion seater with special effects offers a unique and thrilling ride with a high ROI.

If you’re undecided about investing in these games for your business, we hope this blog post has been helpful. Call us today to learn how VR arcade games can benefit your business.