Sin City can often seem like an alternate existence unto itself, but if you want to step away from the slot machines and dive into the metaverse, today we’re touring the top virtual reality experiences we explored for the new The Unofficial Guide to Las Vegas.
The Level Up gaming lounge at MGM Grand comprises bowling lanes, pool tables, esports consoles, retro arcade games, and slot machines disguised as retro arcade games, but its headlining attraction is Zero Latency Virtual Reality. For $50 per person, up to eight participants can spend a half hour running around a warehouse-like arena, zapping virtual space aliens or shotgunning zombies in the head. Players suit up with a 3D headset, which is attached to a remote computer via a wireless network, and a large plastic gun.
Zero Latency’s VR technology is currently ahead of the curve, and it offers a game based on the popular FarCry video game series. The intense action of the Singularity and Outbreak Origins scenarios should satisfy Call of Duty fans, and the player-versus-player Sol Raiders competition will appeal to paintball and laser-tag enthusiasts. Be warned that the gravity-defying Engineerium game, with its M. C. Escher–esque directional distortions, may leave you crawling on the floor if you suffer from inner-ear disturbances or balance issues.
The closest competitor to Zero Latency on the Strip is Sandbox VR, which took over the storefront in The Venetian’s Grand Canal Shoppes once occupied by The Void, our now-defunct, former favorite VR outfit. Sandbox VR lacks The Void’s physical sets and tactile effects, aside from some blowing fans, although you do wear a haptic vest that enhances the immersion that vibrates when you get “hit.” But unlike Zero Latency’s wireless system, Sandbox VR makes you wear a heavy, backpack-mounted computer and motion-tracking anklets—as well as an older Oculus Rift headset and awkward over-the-ears headphones.
Games cost $65 per person for up to six players, last about 30 minutes (plus 15 minutes of orientation), and include a souvenir video with highlights of your experience. Themes range from alien invasion to zombie decimation. The Curse of Davy Jones is a family-friendly option with cartoon pirates; we tried Star Trek: Discovery and emerged disappointed with the glitchy gear—which had to be rebooted repeatedly—low-resolution graphics, and shallow gameplay.
Finally, a number of virtual reality experiences can be found just off the Strip at Area15.
Have you tried virtual reality in Vegas yet? Tell us about your favorites in the comments below!
For all there is to see and do in Las Vegas, check out The Unofficial Guide to Las Vegas by Bob Sehlinger and Seth Kubersky. If you enjoyed this post, please subscribe to our YouTube channel and sign up for our newsletter here. Be sure to follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and YouTube.
