Omescape’s guide to VR escape rooms: Their history and future

The concept of an escape room game has been around for a while, with participants racing against the clock to solve puzzles and find a ‘way out’ of a room. But what about virtual reality escape rooms? With the immersive addition of VR technology, these escape rooms offer a unique experience that’s perfect for pairs and groups. The virtual reality escape room is a newer construct, and with technology always evolving, it’s fascinating to see where these captivating experiences will go next. 

Let’s take a look at the history of the VR escape room and what you can expect from escape games in the near future.

Escape-the-room video games

Did you know that physical escape rooms were first inspired by video games? Popular in the 1990s, ‘escape-the-room’ video games offered a simple yet enthralling premise: players found themselves trapped in a single location. This was often a mysterious room or a series of rooms. The way out? That was for you to discover through exploring your surroundings, solving puzzles and unravelling clues.

As well as letting you test your wits and brainpower, escape room games let you channel your inner adventurer — be it Indiana Jones or Giacomo Casanova — all from the comfort of your own home. 

When did the first physical escape room open?

Fast forward to the noughties, and the escape-the-room video game concept leapt from the screen into the real world, starting in Japan. Real Escape Room (REG) opened in Kyoto in 2007, following the same premise as previous video games. The aim was still to solve puzzles and escape — but instead, you were now physically inside the game.

This transformation from virtual to real-life games brought a whole new level of excitement, offering a hands-on experience you can share with friends.

The rise of virtual reality escape rooms

It wouldn’t be long until escape rooms returned to the virtual realm — partially, at least. With VR headsets, you can now be fully immersed in another world. Whether you’re playing as a pair or a group, VR escape rooms offer the chance to visit fantasy pirate ships, apocalyptic landscapes, and even the moon. At Omescape, you’ll find an array of VR escape room themes to suit all interests and age groups. 

Don your VR headset, and move through these landscapes, working with your team to navigate the story and tackle challenges. 

Where will VR technology take us next?

At the moment, VR adds a new layer of intrigue to the classic escape room game. However, it’s also a fast-moving industry, and creators are always finding new ways to enhance the VR gaming experience. 

We already use high-tech wireless VR headsets to give you freedom of movement as you explore our escape rooms, but virtual reality has the potential to bring even more enticing elements to the table. 

Multi-sensory experiences

Imagine feeling a gentle breeze as you collect diamonds in our Temple Quest or smelling the fresh sea air as you board the mysterious galleon of The Corsair’s Curse. As VR escape rooms develop, multi-sensory experiences could become a regular occurrence. Not only will you see some fantastical surroundings, but you’ll be able to smell, feel, and even taste them!

Some of our most thrilling VR shooting games in London, such as Arizona Sunshine, feature haptic vests and guns so you can feel vibrations and feedback as you roam, chase, and shoot. Perhaps this will become a part of VR escape rooms in the future, too.

Full-body tracking

Improved tracking technology could become a key part of full-body immersion, where every movement you make is mirrored in the game. From walking around to using your hands to solve puzzles, full-body tracking has the potential to give you more physical interaction with the escape room environment. 

What would you like to see?

Are there any virtual reality elements you’d love to experience in an escape room? We’re always happy to hear your feedback so feel free to get in touch with the Omescape team and let us know your thoughts! 

Immerse yourself in a VR escape room in the heart of London

VR escape rooms in London are increasingly popular, and it’s easy to see why. If you’re searching for a fun and interactive way to spend time with friends, family, or colleagues, book a VR escape room experience at Omescape, London.