2 weeks Ago By Jeff Kiger
ROCHESTER — While looking for a new business venture, Alex Ibarra found inspiration in his kids’ virtual reality headset and that led him to bring Another World, a completely immersive VR game arena, to Rochester. “For a long time, I wanted to have my own business. It's hard to find the right business that is unique and innovative.
We worked very hard and we were able to save some money for the last 12 years,” said Ibarra. ADVERTISEMENT In 2023, he started looking in earnest for a business opportunity. Eventually, he focused on virtual reality, something that was popular in his house.
“During the pandemic, we ended up buying a VR headset for our kids. It was very fun. The experience was very different from other video games,” he said.
“They are more emotional because you become part of the game. It’s like a big screen right in front of your eyes.” Looking for opportunities in VR led him to Another World.
He is building out Another World VR gaming center with two arenas at 2300 Superior Dr. NW. The Nana Gogo toybrary and Hair Studio 52 previously occupied the 3,200-square-foot space.
Another World shares the building with Trademark Title Services and Beyond Kitchens. Ibarra hopes to open the doors and start scheduling games on Nov. 9.
Darci Fenske and Michael Busch of Paramark Real Estate represented the landlord and Another World in the real estate agreement. Another World follows the basic concept of a laser tag arena with multiple people playing in tandem or in competition. Combining VR and motion tracking technology immerses the players in a completely digital environment, where they can play a number of games for up to six players.
The selections include age-appropriate games for players starting at 6 years old to teens to adults. The space can also be booked for parties and team-building activities. ADVERTISEMENT The 45-minute games feature aliens, zombies and other classic foes for players to fight in digital environments, like space, cityscapes or haunted houses.
Players will shoot, dance, fish and solve challenges that require teamwork. Games can be scheduled online or players will be able to walk in to book a slot. “Anybody can play these games.
It doesn't matter how old you are. It's fun. It's very immersive.
It's not like you're driving a little character inside the screen. You become the character,” said Ibarra. “Our main goal is to bring something to the community where people can spend some time together and do something fun.
It’s a place where you can go hang out a little while and experience something different.”.
