If the enormous selection of various VR experiences and attractions don’t get you, the $15 million Transformers statue will.
If there was any doubt that the VR boom in China was all hype, then it’s probably starting to fade now. It’s been common knowledge for awhile now that the Oriental Times Media Corporation has been working tirelessly on a massive VR theme park for Chinese patrons. Well thanks to some new footage and images, we finally have a clear look at the still-in-progress complex and the word “massive” is putting it extremely lightely.
Spanning over 320 acres and costing an estimated $1.3 to $1.5 billion, the East Valley of Science and Fantasy will feature multiple attractions, each utilizing VR to help transport users to the future, travel through space, meet extraterrestrial life, ride on the backs of dragons and much more. Users will immediately don their VR gear as soon as they enter the park, including an assortment of interesting peripherals tied to specific experiences. Along with these attractions, the facility will also house a VR restaurant, movie theater, recreational areas, a children’s area and China’s first VR rollercoaster.
More interestingly however are the portions of the park dedicated specifically to VR film production as well as a media research and development. It appears as though the park, while branded as a VR playground, will actually being doing a whole lot more than meets they eye. It’s exciting to see a facility this well-funded blend development and entertainment in such a unique way. It’s very possible East Valley of Science and Fantasy could become the HQ for all things VR not only in China, but the entire Eastern hemisphere.
The ambitious facility will ease its way into opening starting with a soft launch of sorts this December. Visitors will have access to the Alien Base area which includes the VR rollercoaster. The rest of the park will be debuted in waves, slowly opening piece by piece to the public. Oh, there’s also a 175 foot Transformers statue built with 750 tons of steel casting a shadow over the complex. You know, just in case you needed a little more incentive to visit the next time you’re wandering through Guizhou.
Image Credit: Sina
