Stinger Report representatives were invited to attend London's first permanent VR Arcade location. Based in North London, the new DNA VR facility sees 10 dedicated enclosures created to allow single and group players to enjoy a selection of specially selected consumer VR experiences.
New to the Virtual Entertainment scene, the team behind the DNA VR facility have invested in a location offering access to who they perceive as their key audience and what that audience is looking for. The price point works on a 30-minute or 60-minute model, and is attracting group and private party bookings. Using the HTC Vive as the platform, the operators have created a foundation for what they see as a profitable opportunity, looking at traction in being able to accommodate 12 people per hour with their ten enclosures.
The Disney D23 Expo event, however, revealed that Disney's park operation was now turning its research and development fully to the creation of immersive entertainment experiences. These "All-Immersion" attractions in development of launch included the ground-breaking Star Wars hotel and restaurant at Epcot, opening in 2018. The venue will feature immersive digital windows which simulate action-packed galactic views, including a major viewing area in the restaurant, while cast members and guests partake in role-playing and related adventures.
From the Stinger Report 8/29/17 e-newsletter, available at kwp@thestingerreport.com