Gaming highlights at the new Virtual Reality centre in Siam Paragon
Imax VR Roundup
Last Friday, Imax unveiled their newest Imax VR centre, a virtual-reality arcade located in front of their cinemas at Siam Paragon. The seventh such in the world, and the first in Southeast Asia, the centre will roster brief VR games and experiences developed by Imax and will tie into various famous Hollywood franchises offering an "enhanced, multidimensional experience" to cinemagoers.
Each experience costs 250 baht on weekdays and 300 baht on weekends (with discounts for M Gen card owners), and lasts approximately 10-15 minutes with both single and multiplayer options. The exception is the Deadwood Mansion By Glostation experience, which will cost 1,300/1,950/2,600 baht for two, three or four players, and last up to 30 minutes. Here is a brief rundown of the seven experiences available right now.
John Wick Chronicles
(Singleplayer Only; 10 minutes)
Based on the smash-hit action films starring Keanu Reeves, take on the role of John Wick as you fight your way through the famous Continental Hotel. The game will run on the Star VR system, offering resolutions of up to 5K, as well as a visual range on par with that of the normal human eye.
Space Flight: Orbital Emergency
(Singleplayer Only; 8 minutes)
VR technology can do a lot of neat things, especially when it comes to tricking our brains. Experience what it feels like to leave Earth in a space shuttle and float around in zero gravity, made possible thanks to Imax's top-of-the-line VR technology. Be prepared for a surprise at the end.
Justice League: An IMAX VR Exclusive
(Singleplayer Only; 12 minutes)
In collaboration with Justice League the film, take on the role of the movie's iconic heroes with this VR experience, specially-made for Imax VR. Choose from a list of missions that puts you in the shoes of different members of the Justice League, from fighting monsters as Wonder Woman to stopping a time bomb as the Flash. The game also utilises special seats that vibrate and move with what is happening, providing even deeper immersion.
Raw Data
(Single Or Multiplayer; 15 minutes)
A more traditional VR action game, choose from three futuristic fighters and battle through the streets of Neo-Shinjuku with a variety of swords and guns. The game is even said to feature regular updates, so be sure to keep checking back for more. You can even bring your friends along to play with you.
Life Of Us
(Single Or Multiplayer; 8 minutes)
Experience the various stages of life through evolution. Fly, swim or even breathe fire as countless different creatures through billions of years of history, before experiencing a "post-singularity intergalactic dance party" set to original music by Pharrell Williams.
Eagle Flight
(Single Or Multiplayer; 7 minutes)
In a future where humans have vanished from the Earth, watch from the eyes of an eagle as wildlife and nature begins to creep back into the world's abandoned cities. You can enjoy the eerie view of abandoned landmarks like the Eiffel Tower or Notre Dame alone, or explore the skies with up to six other players. There is even a "capture the flag" type game for those who want a more competitive experience.
Deadwood Mansion By GloStation
(Multiplayer Only; 30 minutes)
Using Imax's special GloStation technology, which allows for untethered, full-movement VR, make your way through an abandoned mansion surrounded by flesh-eating zombies in search of a mad scientist. With up to three other players, grab one of the gun-shaped controllers and blast your way through the undead hordes. Each player can also have their own special ability based on their chosen role, which can allow them to help their friends survive.
