Hyper Reality in Bern - the test

"The Fusion Arena is not a gaming den for gamers, but an open experience space for everyone" according to Ronny Tobler, co-founder of Pandally AG. Well then, into the lion's den: we recently tested the pop-up version in Bern.

Number 45 is here and number 47 is there. Is the entrance in the back? We have the right address, don't we? Marktgasse 46. The pop-up version of the Fusion Arena in Bern doesn't exactly catch your eye. After a short confusion, I discovered the escalator, which leads to the 2nd floor via another escalator. (Later I discovered that the way would of course have been described in the confirmation email. )

When we arrive at the Welcome Desk, the door is locked. We ring the bell. After a short wait, Tom opens the door and welcomes us. We are led into the changing room, which reminds us of a cheap fitness centre.

In conversation, we found out exactly that: There really used to be a gym here. We don't have to change, but we spend a good while in this uncomfortable room. Tom explains in detail what it's all about and how everything works. Since my test partner speaks English and it is easier for Tom, this is done in perfect English.

Before we learn more about the story and experience the game, I have a few questions about the location in Bern. According to Tom, they are planning to move (finally) to the actual building at the end of the year; namely to the Wankdorf Center. Group bookings of up to 120 people will be possible there. After all, that is one of their USPs: in the Fusion Arena, up to 10 people can play a selection of games in VR at the same time. Perfect for team events of all kinds, because all games are about teamwork.

This way, larger teams can split up in the future and those who currently just have to wait can try out other VR experiences. Just as is already the case in the Fusion Arena in Zurich. Since the opening in Bern, private visitors and teams have been in balance.

For today's test, we have Tikal and the Night of the Blood Moon on the agenda. Tikal, like most cool games, comes from the house of trueVRsystems. The two companies work closely together. For the Fusion Gate missions, the Fusion Arena creative team even contributes the ideas.

You'll find out the day after tomorrow what we experienced when we tested Tikal.