The RiNo neighborhood is about to get a thrilling new addition this summer, as investor and financial analyst Scott Boren brings his haptic vest and headset technology to the area. Boren is opening a franchise of Sandbox VR, a virtual reality gaming concept that has already captivated players worldwide, from Switzerland to Singapore and Seattle to Miami. With three game rooms, Sandbox VR offers an immersive experience like no other, allowing visitors to step into the shoes of a first-person shooter, face dinosaurs, or even save the planet from alien invasions.
What makes Sandbox VR truly unique is its appeal to a diverse range of players. Boren highlights the inclusivity of the business, noting that it's not just for young kids. In fact, he mentions that a 75-year-old customer has already enjoyed the experience in one of his Virginia Beach locations. This broad appeal is a key factor in the business's success, as it caters to various age groups and interests.
The technology behind Sandbox VR is impressive. Players are equipped with sensors on their ankles and wrists, along with haptic vests and headsets that track their movements. This setup allows for a truly immersive and interactive experience, as players can walk around the room freely and explore their virtual world. The gameplay is recorded and spliced into three videos, providing players with a memorable keepsake of their adventure.
Boren also emphasizes the potential of corporate outings and events as a significant line of business for Sandbox VR. He mentions that his location in Virginia Beach has an internal sales team dedicated to attracting parties and groups to the space. This strategic focus on corporate events highlights the versatility and appeal of the virtual reality experience, making it a unique and engaging option for team-building and entertainment.
The RiNo location, situated at 2737 Larimer St., is a strategic choice for Boren. He expresses his preference for this area over downtown Denver, citing the ongoing redevelopment project by Edens, a national real estate firm, as a factor in his decision. Boren's trust in the area's potential is evident, as he believes it will continue to attract capital and thrive as a business hub.
The history of the Larimer Street building adds an intriguing layer to the story. Local real estate investor and developer Bahman Shafa purchased the 19,000-square-foot property in 1999 for a modest $350,000. At the time, the neighborhood was far from its current vibrant state, described as 'the slums of Denver' with drug dealers and tumbleweeds. However, Shafa's foresight and the area's transformation over the years have undoubtedly contributed to the success of his investment.
