A new centre where video game lovers can play high-tech virtual reality (VR) games is opening in Thornaby.
The Gaming Hideaway is preparing to open its doors at the Pavilion Shopping Centre, in Thornaby, and will allow members of the public to experience a range of VR games.
The centre will have a total of 20 gaming stations five VR stations and simulators.
It will include a VR rollercoaster simulator, which can turn 360 degrees and can take players on a number of adventures, including a simulated rollercoaster ride or a trip to space.
The gaming stations will include 43'' TV screens, headsets, leather recliners and PlayStation and Xbox consoles with more than 100 games. It will also include an escape room and a café.
The Gaming Hideaway is being launched by Kaiyn and Rachel Crooks, who have invested a six-figure sum in the venture.
Rachel said: “We’re excited to be launching our business in the Pavilion Shopping Centre. We devised this concept pre-Covid and because of the way the gaming centre will operate, we haven’t had to change it.
“The centre can accommodate 24 gamers at a time and they must book a two-hour session. When they have finished there is a 15-minute slot that enables all equipment to be cleaned thoroughly. It is naturally a socially distanced activity so we won’t be required to reduce the number of gamers on site.”
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Kaiyn currently works as a supervisor at a renewable energy industry while Rachel owns a cleaning business. Their new business has created 17 full-time jobs.
The Gaming Hideaway aims to attract gamers who want to experience VR but will also be available for parties.
Mark Horsfield, centre supervisor, said: “We couldn’t be more pleased to welcome such an innovative family gaming centre to the Pavilion Shopping Centre and are looking forward to its opening. We’ve no doubt this will be extremely popular with visitors.
“With the opening of Microshops for fledgling retailers and now The Gaming Hideaway coming to the centre, this is an exciting time for the centre and for our shoppers.”