After spending too many weekends glued to my mobile games and PS5, I hit a wall—I was tired of sitting still. I needed something more to get me moving and interacting with friends. That’s when I decided to try out virtual reality arcades.
So, I set out on a mission to explore Vancouver’s VR scene, and let me tell you, it was a game-changer! It was like stepping into a whole new world. I explored alien planets, fought zombies, and even became a superhero.
In this article, I’m thrilled to share my top virtual reality arcades that turned our gaming nights into unforgettable adventures. Read on to find out where your next epic outing should be!
1. Zero Latency
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Website: https://zerolatencybc.com/
Address: Kingsgate Mall, 370 E Broadway Unit #101, Vancouver, BC V5T 4G5
Contact details: +16044234753
Operating hours: 2–9 PM
Zero Latency is a 1,500-square-foot arena that is spacious and can accommodate up to 8 players, which makes for a super immersive and collaborative gaming environment.
What I loved most is that they offer various free-roam VR games with top-notch technology, such as 4K goggles, headsets with microphones, and interactive weapons without the hassle of carrying heavy backpacks.
They have thrilling team-based challenges and captivating escape rooms, perfect for group bonding and having a blast with friends. Plus, they have themed nights and special promotions.
Pro tip:
Before your visit, check out the current lineup of games and choose the ones that interest you the most. Some games are more physically demanding than others, so it’s a good idea to plan accordingly.
2. Gobo VR Arcade and Escape Room
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Website: https://gobovr.com/
Address: 10355 152 St Unit 1298, Surrey, BC V3R 7C1
Contact details: +16047100108
Operating hours: 12–9 PM
Gobo VR Arcade and Escape Room are massive, with 4,000 square feet of space filled with various VR games. They’ve got 9 VR stations so that you can bring your friends. The best part is that they have multiplayer games, so you can all join in on the fun.
What I loved the most were the VR escape rooms – they’re designed for small groups and are super immersive. They even have a VR arena for wireless shooting games.
Another cool thing is that they have a party room with a kitchen perfect for hosting events. Plus, they provide disposable masks for guests so you can have fun while staying safe.
Pro tip:
Try their escape room experiences. These immersive challenges require teamwork, problem-solving, and communication skills. It’s a fantastic way to bond with friends and family while stepping outside your comfort zone.
3. Sandbox VR
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Website: https://sandboxvr.com/vancouver
Address: 12571 Bridgeport Rd Unit 170, Richmond, BC V6V 1J4
Contact details: +16043707263
Operating hours: 2–9:30 PM
Sandbox VR’s technology is top-notch, and the facilities are so much fun. You wear haptic vests and experience full-body motion capture, which makes the whole experience super immersive.
The best part? You can bring along up to five friends, so it’s perfect for a group outing. The games are around 30 minutes long, which I think is the perfect amount of time to really get into the adventures.
I find it cool that they have unique games like “Deadwood Manor,” where you can go ghost-hunting, and “Star Wars: Secrets of the Empire,” a dream come true for any Star Wars fan.
Pro tip:
Arrive early to avoid long lines, especially on weekends or during peak hours. Check the restaurant’s website or social media pages for special promotions or events.
4. Evolve Virtual Reality
Media credit: evolvevirtualreality
Website: http://www.evolvevr.ca/
Address: 411 W Broadway, Vancouver, BC V5Y 1R4
Contact details: +16048292486
Operating hours: 12–10 PM
Evolve Virtual Reality has over 50 virtual reality games and a classic arcade. You can try everything from cooperative zombie survival to wingsuit flying with up to 10 people at once.
They even have rooms that can fit up to 60 people, so they’re perfect for any kind of gathering. They offer group rates and discounts for larger parties. Plus, they host special gaming events and themed nights, like playing Beat Saber or Spider-Man VR.
And if you ever need a spot for a birthday party or corporate event, they’ve got you covered with exclusive access to all the games.
Pro tip:
Try out their multiplayer games, such as Rec Room or Arizona Sunshine. These games allow you to collaborate with friends or strangers and enjoy a shared virtual experience. It’s a great way to make new friends and have fun.
5. North Shore Virtual Reality Zone
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Website: https://northshorevirtualrealityzone.com/
Address: 834 15th St W, North Vancouver, BC V7P 1M6
Contact details: +16042598005
Operating hours: 3 PM–12 AM
North Shore Virtual Reality Zone has the latest VR technology and a wide range of immersive experiences. I particularly loved the motion simulator racing games and the various VR stations.
One cool thing about this place is that they have games for everyone, whether you’re into family-friendly options like Beat Saber and Fantastic Contraption or more intense adventures like Elder Scrolls VR and Blade & Sorcery.
They even have Cybershoes, which let you walk and run in virtual environments, making the whole experience more immersive.
The pricing is also pretty reasonable. It’s $35 for a one-hour VR session and $60 for an hour of racing, which makes it accessible for anyone looking to explore the world of VR gaming.
Pro tip:
Consider booking a private room if you’re visiting with friends or family. This allows you to enjoy a more intimate experience without distractions. Plus, it’s a great way to bond and create lasting memories.
6. Exit
Media credit: iexitvancouver
Website: https://e-exit.ca/gastown
Address: 289 Abbott St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2K7
Contact details: +16042641041
Operating hours: 1–9:30 PM
Exit has private VR rooms with top-notch HTC Vive headsets and motion controllers. You can play thrilling games for up to 60 minutes with a group of 2 to 6 friends. They have over 60 games, including popular titles like Fruit Ninja VR and Half-Life Alyx.
What’s cool is that they also host special events and themed nights. They have a Ladies’ Night every Thursday with a 20% discount on escape room admissions for female participants – perfect for a fun night out with friends.
It gets even better – if it’s your birthday, you get free admission! Plus, the more, the merrier because larger groups get awesome discounts, too.
Pro tip:
A must-play VR game at Exit is “Escape the Lab.” This immersive experience challenges players to solve puzzles and riddles within a high-stakes laboratory setting, making it perfect for those who enjoy teamwork and critical thinking.
7. Cipher X
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Website: https://cipherx.ca/
Address: 1065 Ridgeway Ave, Coquitlam, BC V3J 1S6
Contact details: +16044920165
Operating hours: 2–10 PM
Cipher X has cool VR stations with top-notch headsets and controllers, which make gaming super immersive. From VR escape room challenges to competitive multiplayer games, there’s always something new and exciting to try.
The best part is they can accommodate groups of up to 30 people, so it’s perfect for parties or corporate events. Plus, they offer discounts for group bookings and birthday parties, which is a great perk for anyone looking to celebrate.
What I love about Cipher X is that they host themed events and game nights that add a unique touch. Imagine dressing up as your favorite game character and diving into the immersive experience—it’s so much fun!
Pro tip:
A must-play VR game is Cyberpunk, an immersive escape room experience that transports players into a futuristic world. This game combines high-tech visuals with engaging gameplay, making it perfect for newcomers and seasoned gamers.
8. VRCORE
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Website: http://www.vrcore.ca/
Address: 1585 Bowen Rd #2, Nanaimo, BC V9S 1G4
Contact details: +12508241345
Operating hours: 2–8 PM
VRCORE has top-notch VR headsets and a wide selection of games, so you can easily switch between single-player and multiplayer experiences. The best part is they prioritize hygiene by thoroughly cleaning each headset between uses.
They can host over ten players in various gaming experiences, including VR Experience Bays, VR Escape Rooms, and the VR Combat Arena. Each session is booked by the hour, allowing guests to explore an extensive library of games.
You’ll also enjoy their themed nights and special challenges. Plus, it offers discounts for larger groups, making it a great option for birthday parties or corporate events.
Pro tip:
A must-play game at VRCORE is Superhot VR. You’ll find yourself dodging bullets and planning your moves in a visually striking environment that keeps you engaged and on your toes.
9. Future Arena VR
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Address: 5000 Canoe Pass Wy Unit H, Delta, BC V4M 4G8
Contact details: +16043822268
Future Arena VR has this amazing free-roam VR setup that allows 4 to 8 players to move around wirelessly, which is just mind-blowing. The best part is that they’ve made it super affordable, starting at just $20 per hour on Tuesdays.
The games they offer are so much fun! You can battle zombies in Dead Ahead, play Cops vs. Robbers, or challenge your wits in Escape Rooms.
But what sets them apart are their themed nights and special events. They host themed game nights that dive deep into specific genres or storylines, taking the whole experience to another level.
If you’re planning to go with a big group, they offer discounts, making it perfect for a fun day out with friends or colleagues.
Pro tip:
A must-play game at Future Arena VR is “Seekers of Shard,” an action-packed adventure that allows players to explore a richly detailed world while working cooperatively to overcome obstacles and enemies.
10. Thrill Lands
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Website: http://www.thrilllands.com/
Address: 261055 Crossiron Blvd, Calgary, AB T4A 0G3
Contact details: +14036051292
Operating hours: 10 AM–9 PM
Thrill Lands offers over 30 different experiences to choose from. I love that they have everything from action-packed adventures to mind-bending puzzles. The VR stations are top-notch, with high-quality headsets and controllers.
One thing I really appreciate is that they’ve got comfortable seating areas for spectators, so your friends and family can cheer you on while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. It’s a great spot for group events too, like corporate team building or birthday parties.
What’s really cool about Thrill Lands is that they often host themed nights, like horror nights during Halloween or sci-fi weekends, which adds an extra layer of excitement. Plus, they run promotions, like discounted group rates and extended play sessions.
But what sets Thrill Lands apart for me are the unique games, especially the immersive escape room experiences where you have to solve puzzles to “escape” within a set time limit.
Pro tip:
Try the “Beat Saber” experience. It’s a challenging but incredibly fun rhythm game that will have you swinging your lightsabers to the beat.