IMAX VR has launched in the Trafford Centre Odeon, offering everything from intergalactic dance parties to aerial combat
It was originally due to open last year - then the proposed location (ODEON Printworks) closed, scuppering plans somewhat.
Fortunately, IMAX found a new site and Manchester’s new virtual reality centre is now open at ODEON Trafford Centre: set to whisk participants to far-flung worlds with the donning of a headset.
The first pilot IMAX centre to be installed in Europe - and only the fifth worldwide after LA, New York, Shanghai and Toronto - the state-of-the-art venue comprises ten futuristic player pods that can be adapted for either single or multi-user (depending on how social you’re feeling) and promises plenty for VR amateurs and adrenaline junkies alike.
If the pilot centres are successful, IMAX plans to roll the concept out globally.
Each experience lasts eight to fifteen minutes and uses ground-breaking VR headset technology, 360-degree sound and haptic controls to ‘take you beyond the edge of your seat to a world you’ve never imagined.'
While content will change continually, as IMAX partners with filmmakers and gaming producers on new projects, here’s what’s currently on offer:
Justice League: An IMAX VR® Exclusive - Step into the shoes of the iconic DC superheroes Batman, Wonder Woman, Aquaman, The Flash and Cyborg in the first of IMAX’s collaboration with Warner Bros.
Space Flight - Enjoy the exhilarating feel of a space jet take off and witness the stunning view of planet earth in zero gravity
Eagle Flight - Experience the freedom of flight along with the thrill of aerial combat
Life of Us - Breathe fire, swim underwater, survive the Ice Age and soar over volcanoes as you evolve through a billion years of evolution and join an intergalactic dance party set to original music by Pharrell Williams
Star Trek: Bridge Crew - Take on the roles of Helm, Tactical, Engineering or Captain on the bridge of a Federation starship and operate your station to fire phasers, raise shields, plot a course or bring the ship to warp
Raw Data Multiplayer - Go solo, or team up with a friend, and become the adrenaline-charged heroes of your own futuristic techno-thriller
Mark Way, Managing Director ODEON Cinemas Group said: “Our ODEON at the intu Trafford Centre is already one of the most innovative and popular cinemas in Europe, and now the launch of the IMAX VR Experience will make it one of the most unique cinemas in the world. Our guests will be awe-struck by the power of the IMAX technology and the quality of the content from the world’s most creative studios and developers.
“We have a great history of working closely with our partners at IMAX to bring guests the very best entertainment, and this is another massive step forward. We’re delighted that our guests in Manchester will the first in Europe to enjoy it, and look forward to welcoming everyone to an unforgettable experience.”
IMAX VR is one of several additions to the Trafford area of late. Legoland’s new Ninjago City was soon followed by the UK’s first dedicated ‘Total Ninja’ park, while October saw another first in Inflata Nation - the only indoor inflatable theme park of its kind worldwide - and November welcomed Dino Falls, a dinosaur-themed golf course.
IMAX ODEON is now open at The Trafford Centre, Stretford, M17 8DF - prices from £7.50 per experience
