Virtual Planet, the new virtual reality center at Châtelet Les Halles

Discover virtual reality in a different way... That's what Virtual Planet, a brand-new VR center located just a stone's throw from Les Halles, has to offer, offering enthusiasts of the genre the chance to discover a whole range of experiences, each as diverse as the next. Arcade games, escape games, shooting games and car simulators... So many ways to discover virtual reality and have fun with family, friends or colleagues!

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And at the heart of this center lies a sacred duty: innovation and quality! That's why the center is equipped with the latest virtual reality technologies to offer visitors a unique experience that's as immersive as possible. In terms of experiences, 4 areas are available (plus a snack area), accessible to beginners and more experienced visitors alike:

• Discovering virtual reality
  Novices and the curious have found their space, with the opportunity to discover VR through experiences tailored to their needs. A space where the latest technologies are at the service of visitors, with the aim of"introducing them to the world of virtual reality in the best possible conditions". The program includes contemplative experiences in which the player is passive, fora "bluffing effect" that gives a good overview of the graphic and immersive capabilities of VR.

• Racing Area
  Racing enthusiasts will also find something to their liking, with a dedicated Racing Area featuring simulators and other dynamic machines to make the driving experience as real as possible. The highlight of this area is a real Formula 1 racing car in which players can take their seat and, equipped with a VR helmet, pedals and steering wheel, try their hand at sports driving on a variety of circuits.

• Arcade area
  Gamers and arcade fans beware! The Arcade Area is literally made for you, and offers you the chance to discover a wide variety of tasty softs! In all, some twenty different experiences are available, all tested by the team and suitable for all ages and levels: Beat Saber, Face your Fears, Job Simulator, Fruit Ninja, Arizona Sunshine... so many games to discover for a unique experience!

• Espace Escape Game
  Escape games are definitely in vogue in Paris, and virtual reality centers have understood this! That's why Virtual Planet is also offering fans of the genre the chance to try their hand at an escape game entirely in VR, as they attempt to solve a wide variety of enigmas. Visitors can try out "La Mine", an escape game in which you have to get out of a mine and find treasure before being transformed into zombies... Nothing less!

Different experiences that the editors were able to try out... And Virtual Planet really comes into its own in the small Parisian world of virtual reality. Starting with the urban, futuristic setting of the play areas, for an atypical first immersion. Another special feature of the virtual reality center is its open-plan layout, allowing greater freedom of movement (and avoiding banging into walls).

But Virtual Planet's real trump card is its racing area, where you can drive a Formula 1 car in a closed network for up to 6 players. This is a real added value, and is complemented by a state-of-the-art HTC Vive headset and simulators on jacks, for an unrivalled driving sensation.

There's also a Snack Area, offering tasty sweet treats created in-house, such as IceRoll ice creams straight from Asia, as well as hot drinks (coffee, tea, chocolate, etc.) and cold drinks. Another reason, if ever there was one, to visit Virtual Planet... Shall we book a slot, folks?

Please note that it's been over 4 years since our last visit, so the place and experience may have changed.