VR and AR in Entertainment

It wouldn’t be inaccurate to say that virtual reality has taken root in the entertainment industry more than any other. As noted in the first post on this blog, virtual reality has grown in popularity in large part thanks to video games that utilize the technology. YouTubers, streamers, and other content creators have used the technology for years now and have helped propel the technology to where it is today, popularizing it among millions of viewers. Take Half Life: Alyx for example, a virtual reality game based on the popular Half Life series. The game utilizes a VR headset as well as high-tech controllers for each hand that allow the user to interact with the environment in a variety of ways. The video below showcases the technology’s accuracy, allowing the user to draw on a virtual piece of glass with dry erase markers.

However, the gaming industry has been somewhat slow to adopt the technology as one of the next-gen platforms as a result of the cost of virtual reality set-ups that can cost over $1,000. Moreover, those who can afford the technology might not have the most ideal space for interacting with a virtual environment. This is where location based entertainment comes into play. Businesses are capitalizing on their unique locations to combine VR technology with much larger in-person environments, allowing customers to experience VR games and entertainment alongside unique additions such as wind tunnels, large padded warehouses, roller-coasters and more. Companies are seeking new ways to utilize their unique spaces, licensing, the technology itself, and 3rd party partners to maximize the capabilities of VR. This article showcases some popular LBE groups and businesses that seek to push the platform forward as the next step in entertainment.

Other businesses are also seeking their own ways to use VR to maximize their businesses. For instance, British Airways is now looking to add VR to their flights for first class members. They’re looking to entertain their passengers in new ways with VR shows, movies, documentaries, and more in order to provide a way to pass the time and to ease the nerves of anxious passengers.

Another VR company is taking the COVID-19 epidemic in stride. VR Zone DC is a location based entertainment company that utilizes VR headsets for games and other entertainment. Unsurprisingly, the business has taken a toll as a result of the stay-at-home orders, but owner Alex Gerasimov saw an opportunity. His company is now looking to push the technology while everyone is at home by offering non-contact delivery rental packages that come with the headset, wipes, and masks. Seeing Zoom take off as people desperately want to connect with one another sparked an idea. The business is pushing the rental packages that can be distributed to as many as 10 homes in ways not thought of before. The goal is for customers to rent out the packages in bulk, to create their own avatars, and to gather remotely and virtually on the platform to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, and more.