14 Feb Virtual reality escapology games: the new way to play
The virtual reality escape games have emerged as a new way of enjoying this fun activity that is so fashionable in Spain and Europe. The dynamic is basically the same as the traditional mode, i.e. you enter a room and you can only get out if you solve a series of puzzles, but now with Virtual Reality resources.
If you've ever played a real escape room game, then you probably know what the experience is all about. We wouldn't be surprised if you've experienced the excitement and stress build up as the clock ticks down and you struggle to decipher the last clues. The virtual reality escape games, for their part, arouse the same sensations, however, they make use of technology and nothing else.
We will now take a closer look at this new way of playing Escape Room, which is gradually gaining popularity in the country.
What are virtual reality escape games like?
It may not sound very exciting to be immersed in a room with a VR headset on, and have a programmer design an environment for you to explore. The fact that these virtual environments are three-dimensional, however, adds a sense of immersion and almost realism to the gameplay.
The virtual reality escape games combine immersion with fun, plus one thing you won't need to do is travel to a real location. In other words, you can enjoy it comfortably from your own sofa, connected with friends who could literally be thousands of miles away to play together as a team in a virtual escape room.
And while the Escape Room game genre has experienced explosive growth in recent years since its inception in the early 2000s, we can thank the Covid 19 virus and social distancing for driving this virtual game modality.
Virtual Reality Escape Rooms: Keys to enjoy this game
If there is one thing to point out, it is that the virtual reality escape games are a relatively new inclusion in the whole escape room genre. As such, you won't find many versions available to enjoy from home, however, businesses have sprung up that aim to promote the Escape Room games which are played through VR headsets.
We are talking about a completely empty room where the participants are located, separated from any wires, allowing them to experience the virtual reality broadcast situations that are in front of their eyes. Many VR-based Escape Room games nowadays come with all the technological gadgetry packed in a backpack.
A player can use all of this equipment together with the goggles, allowing the player the freedom to roam the escape room unhindered during the experience.
What to expect?
The actual duration of the virtual reality escape games will largely depend on the dynamics of the game and the level of difficulty, in fact, the number of people playing will vary considerably. Now, as a rule of thumb, it will take as long as a real game and that is usually around 60 minutes.
The actual time you spend in the escape room, however, will be inherent in how well you manage to solve the puzzles and clues.
Dress for the occasion
Generally, you will find that most virtual reality rooms allow between 2 and 6 people to play in a room. Many of the more modern proposals You will be equipped with a backpack and goggles, and in some cases you will also wear a haptic waistcoat, an accessory that will vibrate to provide a more immersive experience.
We suggest that you avoid wearing bulky clothing and choose to dress mainly for comfort. Also, bear in mind that you may be carrying a rather heavy backpack along with your glasses, so we recommend not dressing in too many outfits as you will probably feel quite warm.
Make sure you ask the Game Master exactly what the difficulty level is before you start playing. Whatever level you are playing, don't forget that, as with normal Escape Room games, there will always be a guide who you can ask for hints in case you get stuck on a single task for too long.
The cost of playing
As with traditional escape room games, you will find individual rates between 20 euros and 40 euros per person. We advise you to do some research on the Internet about the facility you are planning to attend. Because, not only will you find the entrance fees, but also if there are any discounts or bonuses available.
Remember that if you are unsure about any aspect of the game, you can call the company and ask for answers.
Reality vs. virtual reality escape rooms
A very common question when it comes to the virtual reality escape games is, how do they compare to normal escape rooms? The first point is that classic Escape Rooms come in different sizes and shapes. Some companies have individual rooms, while others have a whole house to go through. In general, each room will have its own theme.
One of the most positive aspects of virtual escape rooms is that there are themes for almost any idea or fantasy. And from a practical point of view, you can play in several rooms without leaving the room. As you are playing in a virtual world, there will be much more freedom when it comes to puzzles and clues. Although we should point out that there is no real time saving from one type of game to another.
Since the VR technology used in virtual games is still evolving, players cling to individual motion sensor controllers with both hands. This certainly takes away from the tactile experience you would find in a real escape room game.
Beware of motion sickness!
One factor that is rarely mentioned when participating in virtual reality escape room games is the fact that many players may experience some form of motion sickness. Our brains are programmed to see the horizon or the ground in front of us. And the virtual world will lack the spatial triggers necessary to allow us to keep a cool head.
Of course, not all virtual reality games are guilty of causing motion sickness, so if you are someone who gets motion sickness easily, then perhaps this type of game is not for you.
Conclusions
There is no doubt, the virtual reality escape games represent a new innovation in the sector and is an adventure that hardcore escapists should explore for a different experience.
So if you ever find the opportunity to participate in an Escape Room game in virtual reality, you should not miss the chance. Whether you want to make a comparison between traditional escape games and the new modality or simply discover how to experience this VR-based recreational activity.
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