With the future of theme parks still sketchy due to the Covid-19 pandemic, will “virtual” theme parks take the world by storm?
A virtual Reality (VR) roller coaster just launched in Ocean Park, Hong Kong for a ride called Mine Train while Japan launched the Tokyo Tower Bungee VR.
While VR amusement park rides are not new in most parts of the world, the Philippines have not seen it’s first VR ride other than the occasional VR facilities in malls.
One of the hardest-hit in the pandemic is the amusement parks and arcades that operate mechanical rides, games, shows, exhibits and other entertainment attractions that are not allowed right now during quarantine.
Internationally, theme park and arcade companies have rearranged their operations to adapt to the present situation and ultimately recover from the Covid-19 impact.
Earlier in the pandemic, VR companies saw the technology’s potential in the travel and entertainment market as many people have begun experiencing cabin fever from staying indoors.
(See also: Pandemic boosts VR technology in travel and entertainment )
Virtual Reality creates a 360-degree simulated environment using computer technology.
While the park designs a roller coaster, their developers enhance the experience by creating stunning VR images, scenes to match the physical experience of the roller coaster.
What many companies have done is to partner with sponsors to create a theme for the VR roller coaster.
Rather than seeing yourself riding a roller coaster in a park, the VR could make it look like you’re in a spaceship, in a mineshaft, or in a submarine on a turbulent ride!
While the VR makes for a more hi-tech ride, you have to compromise on the original experience.
But for park owners, it is a great step forward to the new normal and bring back guests into the amusement parks and arcades.
Tags: #themeparks, #virtualreality, #Covid19