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Universal Studios Japan incorporates VR and AR into their rides to create a fully immersive experience for riders

The metaverse promises to merge digital and virtual worlds – and theme parks like Universal are using a combination of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) to create magical experiences for guests.

At Universal Studios in Japan, one of the most popular rides is Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge. This ride takes place inside a replica of Bowser’s Castle. At the entrance to the ride, you get to put on Mario’s iconic red cap, as well as an augmented reality headset attached to the cap.

Then you experience a physical ride that is merged with digital elements. For example, you shoot targets by looking at them through your AR headset and even compete with other guests as you’re playing the game.

The ways Universal has integrated metaverse technologies have the potential to completely revolutionize theme parks worldwide.

As technology continues to advance, theme park designers will create even more innovative and immersive travel and recreational experiences — so we’ll likely continue to see a lot more “ooh-ing” and “aah-ing” from excited crowds.

Source:

  • https://www.forbes.com/sites/bernardmarr/2023/05/04/universal-studios-the-metaverse-and-the-future-of-theme-parks/?sh=2fa35aae1d5f