DNA VR: What to expect from the new virtual reality attraction coming to Manchester in 2023

Saving the planet from a nuclear disaster, exploring the pyramids and breaking out of prison – these are just some of the new virtual adventures on offer at Manchester’s new VR arcade.

Opening on Brown Street in the city centre in early 2023, DNA VR is a new arcade where players use headsets to explore fantasy worlds, play games and solve escape rooms in a completely virtual environment.

This is the company’s first site outside of London, with the original one being the first and biggest in London.

Alexander Tsyurupa, Co-Founder and CEO of DNA VR, said: “We’re so excited to be opening DNA VR in Manchester, our first venue outside of London.

“People want new immersive experiences and DNA VR’s leading technology enables visitors to enjoy thrilling gameplay. Whether you want a fantastical adventure, or to solve a series of mysteries, we have hundreds of games for every interest and passion.”

How does it work?

DNA VR caters for both solo and group bookings of up to 15 people. Some of the experiences are suitable for children as young as seven.

There are four different kinds of experiences on offer. With the VR arcade experience, you can play as many different games as you want within the one-hour time slot with up to 11 players simultaneously.

There are two different escape room experiences. In the VR escape room, teams of between two and six people must work together to solve a series of puzzles, and there is also a Ubisoft version, where teams of two to four play in famous video game worlds such as Prince of Persia and Assassin’s Creed.

All the above options are played within a VR Pod, however, there is also a free roam option, where up to four people are placed in a large room, with wireless headsets, and either play games or just explore. These sessions last 40 mins.

There is a wide variety of different worlds and settings on offer in a variety of genres, including fantasy, horror, sci-fi and even Christmas.

For anyone wanting to make an evening of it, there is also an on-site mini bar in the foyer.

How to book and how much it costs

Bookings are not yet open for DNA VR in Manchester. However, you can use the discount code  MANCHESTER10 to get 10% off your first bookings.

Gift vouchers are also available if you want gift someone a VR experience for Christmas.

On the website for the London sites, VR experiences range between £22 and £40 per person, depending on which you choose.