Virtual reality games are growing in popularity and variety as more and more people discover the wonder of slipping on that headset and becoming a full part of the video game. Companies have even begun to produce sets for folks to bring home and play in the comfort of their living room, or to bring to a party for some added fun. 

At PlanetX, we have over 20 games for you to choose from between two of our locations. Let’s look at two of the games we offer and explore the gameplay and appeal so you know what to try the next time you come to visit us!

Richie’s Plank Experience

The first game is called Richie’s Plank Experience. Set in a fictional city, the gameplay is simple: ride an elevator and walk out of an 80-story building onto a wooden plank and try not to let your fear of heights get the better of you. The plank is customizable, so if you want to test your resilience, you can make it shorter or narrower. But be careful. Step too close to the edge, and you might fall off!

Part of the fun is watching other people play the game, as well. Described as a good introduction for those new to VR technology, Richie’s Plank Experience is entertaining to play as well as watch. Big screams and reactions are guaranteed.

Several mini games are available, too. If you have always wanted to know what it would be like to fly and race through a city, try playing Rocket Race. Sky Brush gives you a sky-writing experience, while Missile Defense lets you play superhero as you save the city. Fire Fight requires you to extinguish fires. A horror level is another option, though not necessarily recommended for children. 

So, if you have always wanted to try virtual reality games, but are not sure where to start, Richie’s Plank Experience is a great first option! The laid-back gameplay, low stakes, and potential for a quick end is perfect for beginners.

Arizona Sunshine

The second game available at PlanetX is a first-person shooter game called Arizona Sunshine. Your character wakes up in the Grand Canyon state, camped out in the Arizona river valley, and hears the sound of human voices at the other end of the radio. Potential survivors! Survivors? Yes, this is a post-apocalyptic world with zombies taking over. You have to navigate huge, explorable environments like deserts, canyons, and mines, searching for supplies and ammunition in abandoned cars and houses. Your mission is to find the other survivors and last as long as you can before you are devoured by the undead.

This game is more advanced than a first-time player will want to start with, and more suitable for someone with more gaming and VR experience. For those who get queasy easily, and more sensitive children, this game might also not be a good choice. But if you enjoy zombies, first-person shooter games, and survival strategies, this could be the game for you!

Tips for Avoiding Motion Sickness

One deterrent for some to try virtual reality games is the possibility of motion sickness. Here are some tips on how to avoid motion sickness.

  • Start small and take breaks. If you have never played before, get dizzy or queasy easily, or have not played in a long time, starting small with short bursts of gameplay and then taking a break can be a good way to start. Let your eyes and brain adjust to the sensations and the gameplay before you attempt long sessions.
  • Drink water and eat small. Staying hydrated is a good rule of thumb anyway, but it’s more important when doing something like VR. Dehydration can cause you to feel dizzy anyway, combining that with the sometimes-disorienting sensations of the headset, and you could fall hard. Also, try to avoid playing a VR game right after eating a heavy or greasy meal or when you are already very hungry. 
  • Sit instead of standing. With some games, this is impossible, but trying to find ways to sit while playing can help you orient yourself. This can also reduce the risk of falls and injury and make it easier for you to lie down if necessary since you are already on the floor.
  • Do not play if you are sick. This one might seem like common sense, you should avoid being out when you have the flu, right? However, even a cold or a sinus infection can make you feel sick with the VR headset on, as it can affect your balance in the game and in reality.

Meadowbrook Mall and Southern Park Mall are the two locations where you can find our VR systems. Pricing starts at $8.15 for a 15-minute session. Come check out these two games and the rest we have to offer!