Cybescape Brings Next-Level VR Escape Room Adventure to St Neots
A new virtual reality (VR) escape room attraction has opened its doors in the Cambridgeshire town of St Neots, offering residents and visitors an innovative and interactive gaming experience. The venture, named Cybescape, has been launched by Benos Noble and Oliver Norfolk, the duo behind the existing Escape House, as part of their ongoing expansion into immersive entertainment.
Located in Fishers Yard, Cybescape introduces a new dimension to the traditional escape room concept. Unlike conventional puzzle rooms, this VR-based setup enables participants to step into digitally crafted worlds ranging from the deep sea to outer space, pirate ships, or even the Wild West. The technology allows for scenarios that would be impossible to replicate in a physical setting, broadening the scope of gameplay and creating a dynamic environment for users.
The facility currently offers nine unique virtual experiences, each one designed to challenge participants with puzzles and scenarios that require critical thinking and teamwork. Themes have been carefully curated to appeal to a wide audience, offering everything from high-tension missions involving meteors threatening space stations to more light-hearted and fantastical quests.
With each session lasting approximately 60 minutes, players are required to work together to complete objectives, whether escaping a location, preventing disasters, or recovering lost artefacts. The VR setup allows participants to see and interact with each other within the virtual environment. Movement in the real world is mirrored in the game, which helps maintain player comfort and reduces the risk of motion sickness, an issue often associated with virtual reality experiences.
The founders note that the flexibility of the virtual environment adds a significant replay value. Visitors are able to return for a completely different experience each time, depending on the storyline they choose. This adaptability is seen as one of Cybescape’s major strengths, making it suitable for repeated visits and group events.
Although the experience is geared towards individuals aged 12 and up due to the complexity of the technology and gameplay mechanics, it has attracted a broad demographic since its launch. Groups of young adults, as well as those in their 30s and 40s, have already participated, indicating a wide-ranging appeal. The creators emphasise that previous VR experience is not necessary to enjoy what Cybescape has to offer.
The founders were inspired to combine their existing escape room concept with virtual reality technology after exploring the growing popularity and capabilities of VR gaming. They saw an opportunity to offer something new and engaging for the St Neots community and beyond. With advancements in VR technology, they believe this form of entertainment provides a high-quality and accessible experience for both gaming enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Cybescape also aims to challenge public perceptions of VR. Many first-time visitors who may have hesitated initially due to uncertainty around the technology have left pleasantly surprised by the level of enjoyment and immersion the experience offers. The positive reception so far suggests that VR-based group activities are becoming increasingly mainstream and are being embraced by a variety of audiences.
Bookings for the various VR experiences can be made online through the Cybescape website. As the concept gains traction, it is expected to become a popular destination for team-building activities, birthdays, and other group outings seeking an entertaining and out-of-the-ordinary experience.
Cybescape marks a significant addition to the local leisure landscape in St Neots, positioning itself as a go-to destination for those looking to explore cutting-edge virtual adventures in a fun and social setting.
