To get off to a good start in 2019, the Le Petit futé team wanted to test a unique activity that had been intriguing us for a while: virtual reality! For this purpose we were welcomed by Virtual Center Montparnasse which offers the possibility to access several virtual reality universes dedicated to gamers but also to the general public.
Let's start with the basics, but what is virtual reality?
Virtual Reality (VR) is a technology that plunges a person into a digitally created artificial world. It can be either a reproduction of the real world or a totally imaginary universe.
The experience is both visual, auditory and, at times, haptic with the production of effects feedback.
Immersion is done using an RV headset that places a stereoscopic 3D display system on the nose, in front of the eyes. Some models are equipped with sensors that detect head movements to allow the user to look around. The images are then recalculated in real time to synchronize with the direction of the gaze.
Virtual reality has nowadays evolved a lot and it also has many other applications besides games: training with simulators, treatment of phobias, simulation of surgical procedures, architecture, archaeology with the reconstruction of sites, virtual visits to museums
Our first virtual reality experience at Virtuel Center
After getting a taste of augmented reality by taking the metro to Montparnasse (zic), 5 minutes walk later we arrived at Virtuel Center. Given the cold outside, we were delighted to arrive warm, especially as we were all impatient to discover this new concept that we didn't know except for our colleagues who were a little more "geeky".
For this occasion, we had privatized the room for 1 hour, which allowed us to benefit from a buffet installed with drinks. The room is configured in two floors, at the top the VR immersion areas and at the bottom the VR car simulators, VR attractions and RetroGaming. And you know what we were able to test both!
Please note that throughout the games, the professional team of Virtuel Center has been very well accompanied and advised us.
First of all, we started with the racing simulator. It was a really impressive feeling, we had the real feeling of driving these cars because every bump in the road is felt thanks to the cylinders placed under the machines. Fortunately for us and the bodywork, it was just a simulation... Be aware that you can choose between total immersion with the helmet on your head or, for those who are afraid of not feeling too comfortable, to use the computer screen.
Then we played 2 games in RV immersion. The first one was a FPS, After H, which offers the possibility to play 3-on-3 or every man for himself. Objective: to take control of the resources of the solar system. We have opted for the every man for himself mode, because it is always a pleasure to be able to take revenge on a colleague in a discreet way ... It was really a competitive and sensational experience for the shot!
The second game tested in RV was the big hit of the moment, Beat Saber, which became our unanimous favorite game. Indeed, it is really adapted for everyone, it consists in cutting blocks in rhythm with light sabers! We were really immersed in a parallel world with this game.
Plus, from the outside it was really fun to watch.
Little tip, you can also download your own music and play with it, notice to fans
Conclusion
From this experience, we know that the Virtual Center of Montparnasse proved to be the perfect place for our first Virtual Reality experience. It's better when the place is welcoming and the team is passionate and friendly. That it is a unique and entertaining activity allowing you to discover a futuristic universe. That contrary to prejudices, it is an activity that will please everyone (children, teenagers and adults, girls and boys). For us it was also a new opportunity to share a great time together. We therefore highly recommend it!
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Access
- Vavin metro 4- Notre Dame des Champs metro 12
- Montparnasse metro 4, 6, 12 and 13
- Raspail metro 4 and 6
SchedulesMonday
: reserved for privatizationTuesday: 12h to 22h
Wednesday: 12h to 22h
Thursday: 12h to 22h
Friday: 12h to 23h
Saturday: 10h to 23h
Sunday: 12h to 20h
ContactAddress
:: 0142019160
Privatisation-Air-conditioned
space that can be totally or partially privatised.
- Up to 45 people per hour.
-Free secure locker room.
-+ More than 20 games and experiences available.
-A team of professionals to manage your RV event.
-Catering service available
Age requirements
RV Attraction, anyone can play from the age of 8.
VR simulators, preferable from 12 years old because they are difficult to handle.
Immersion RV, accessible from 10 years old
