The Sentinel

NEW VR CENTRE’S A REAL HEAD-TURNER!

Gaming complex has 360-degree seats unique to UK

- Bethan Shufflebot­ham BETHAN.SHUFFLEBOT­HAM@REACHPLC.COM

A NEW activity centre has opened in the city centre – which allows you to step into another dimension.

Planet VR is a virtual reality centre in Hanley, where players will be able to experience another world in the form of over 50 virtual games.

The gaming centre is located in the former Mr Chan’s, near to Tesco, and opened its doors for the first time this week.

Gamers can choose from one of five virtual reality pods (two of which are wheelchair accessible) or a top of the range Roto VR gaming chair.

Planet VR is the only virtual reality centre in the UK with the Roto chairs, with just one other American company using them.

Manager Paige Arnott, below, aged 23, from Longton, said: “You don’t need to be a hardcore gamer to have a go at VR. We’ll always be on hand to help out or give advice.

“We’re so lucky to have the Roto chairs as we’re the only company in the UK to have them, so they’re very special and move when you move your head.

“This unlocks the ability to enjoy the virtual reality experience­s and full 360-degree freedom with just the turn of your head.”

Gamers can step into a virtual reality as a ninja, boxer, wizard or pirate in some of the games, which are suitable for children eight years and over.

Planet VR also has a fully licensed bar and seating area where people can enjoy a drink before or after their games, with table service and an extensive spirits menu. Prices start at £25 per pod for half an hour, which can be split between up to four players, where friends and family can watch each other play the games in the headset.

Some of the titles available to play include Superhot VR, Fruit Ninja and Beat Saber. Experience­d gamer and assistant manager Michael Edwards is an expert at most of the games.

The 24-year-old, from Biddulph, said: “I’ve been gaming for as long as I can remember and had the Superninte­ndo and Snes so it’s great to bring that passion into Planet VR and share it with others, gamers or not.

“We can’t wait to welcome in customers to have a bit of fun and have a virtual escape to a different reality.”

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 ??  ?? READY TO ROCO AND ROLL: The Roco 360-degree gaming chairs at Planet VR which are unique to the Hanley venue.
READY TO ROCO AND ROLL: The Roco 360-degree gaming chairs at Planet VR which are unique to the Hanley venue.
 ??  ?? EXPERT: It’s game on for Planet VR assistant manager Michael Edwards.
EXPERT: It’s game on for Planet VR assistant manager Michael Edwards.
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