Universal Orlando is for the first time introducing a virtual reality component to its Halloween Horror Nights event, with a new interactive experience combining VR and real-life actors.
The VR experience, known as “The Repository”, will blend custom technology with immersive real-life storytelling in a manner similar to that of
Derren Brown’s new “modern day ghost train” at Thorpe Park in the UK.
“This is one of the most electrifying Halloween Horror Nights’ projects I’ve ever worked on – primarily because it is the culmination of eight years of experimental storytelling, drawing on feedback from our visitors to learn what thrills and chills them the most,” said Universal Orlando’s senior director of Art and Design, TJ Mannarino, speaking on the Universal Blog.
Set in a dilapidated, “centuries old” warehouse, the experience will offer a highly-themed physical environment combined with VR to create an experience for groups of four to uncover a yet-to-be revealed paranormal mystery. Universal has teamed with Washington-based VRStudios to create the haunting experience, which will only be available for a limited time.
Until now, the supernatural has infiltrated our world on occasions labeled ‘hauntings’,” said Mannarino. “Now, and for the first time ever, we will send you across the spectral dark portal directly into those terrifying environments. I wish you a safe journey because what happens to you on the other side is irreversible.”
The Repository will be available as upgrade to Halloween Horror Nights admission, with visitors paying US$49.99 (€44.66, £38.83) per person for the experience.
Universal also announced last week the addition of Krampus to its Halloween line-up, with the Legendary Pictures adaptation of the character from European folklore making his way to the park to offer festive fear in the form of a horror maze.
Beginning on 16 September and running through to 31 October, Universal’s parent company Comcast has previously attributed the annual event as one of the prime reasons why the theme parks division for Universal has enjoyed increased sales in a traditionally quiet final quarter of the year.
Universal is the leader in Halloween horror attractions, drawing more than 600,000 visitors annually, while Knott’s Berry Farm is one of the originators of the idea, starting its Halloween festivities in 1973.
