Required VR Hardware in a VR Arcade

Starting and running a VR arcade requires some work and preparation. However, with a good start, it can quickly become a success! Besides the business decisions you need to make as you are starting a new organisation, there are also many technical decisions to consider.

The choice of your VR headset is crucial for the content you offer. Will you opt to let players roam completely wirelessly? Or do you prefer players to stand in a cubicle and only move in their own space? In this blog, we will explain the pros and cons of certain VR equipment and what we would recommend when you want to start a VR arcade.

Tip: also read our other blogs about starting a VR Arcade and the necessary hardware for it:

• Guide to Starting a Virtual Reality Arcade
• Starting a VR Arcade? Here’s How!
• VR Arcade Game Licences
• Necessary Hardware in a VR Arcade

Generally, the biggest difference lies in the type of virtual reality headset you want to use: tethered PC VR or standalone VR. A PC VR headset connects to the computer. The advantage of this is that you can use the graphical power of your computer. This makes games look much better and run more smoothly. Another advantage of PC VR is that the game library is much more extensive. You can usually choose from hundreds or thousands of games. Examples of PC VR headsets are: HTC Vive Pro, HP Reverb G2, and Oculus Rift S.

Standalone VR is a system where the processor is in the headset. This is convenient because you no longer need an external computer and you don’t have to deal with cables. However, this generally means you can play fewer graphically intensive games. Examples of standalone VR headsets are: Oculus Quest 2, Pico G2 4K, and Pico Neo 2.

Click here for more information about Standalone VR vs. PC VR.

Depending on the VR headset you choose for your VR arcade, we always recommend using a computer with professional specifications. In practice, this means the computer must meet certain standard requirements, such as a powerful graphics card and a fast processor. Computers are typically equipped with an internet connection (LAN). It is also advisable to always use a wired connection in your arcade to ensure a stable internet connection. If you still want to use WiFi, make sure the motherboard is equipped with a WiFi module.

Click here for more information about the right VR PC or laptop.

The content you play in your VR arcade will partly determine the success you achieve. Arcade games are short experiences that allow players to get a taste of the virtual world, making them eager to play or experience something else afterwards. Therefore, avoid offering long-winded games with a storyline, as you need to switch between players quickly in the arcade, and a story takes longer to get into than a short game of 5 minutes. For this reason, it is wise to regularly change the selection of VR games. A limited choice of games also helps players choose a game to play. We recommend not starting with a huge library of VR games but offering three or four games in different genres initially. You can always switch games in the following weeks or months and promote a new game again.

Games that are currently popular in VR arcades include: Job Simulator, Arizona Sunshine, Beat Saber, Audioshield, and QuiVr. Check out our recommendations for action & adventure games and puzzle & escape room games.

Click here for more information about the VR Arcade software.

• Protective Covers: In a busy VR arcade, you will notice that the VR headset is used frequently and enthusiastically! It is therefore important to protect your VR headset and controllers in case they bump into something or fall to the ground. A GelShell Silicone Cover is highly recommended.
• Lens Protectors: Nothing is more annoying than a scratch on the lens of your VR headset. The lens is right in front of your eye, so if there is a scratch on it, you will keep seeing it. A lens protector ensures that scratches do not directly affect the lens but the protective plate in front of it. This prevents players with glasses, for example, from scratching the original lens.
• Controller Docking Station: The controllers that come with the VR headset need to be charged. This is generally done via a USB cable. You can create a central point where you have enough USB cables coming out of the socket, or you can choose to provide each headset with its own docking station!
• Headset Stand: Storing your headset should be done professionally. Simply placing the headset somewhere does not look nice and professional. You can store the VR headset in a cabinet or place it on a headset stand. The advantage of a headset stand is that you still display the headset to customers, which is more inviting than storing it in a cabinet.
• Hygienic (Disposable) Masks: Especially when many people are playing, it is important to keep a close eye on hygiene. Users will sweat while playing, and sweat will get into the foam of the headset. Attachable or adhesive masks are therefore a must for your VR arcade.