Arcade Paradise VR is a compelling title that successfully merges business simulation with the excitement of arcade gaming
Before diving into the details of Arcade Paradise VR, I have a confession to make. If you've read any of my other reviews for simulator games, you already know that I am a sucker for a good simulator game. When the flat version of Arcade Paradise was added to Game Pass last year, I had to stop myself from playing it because I was spending way too many hours on it. So when I learned that the game would receive the VR treatment and be available on the Meta Quest, I got really excited. After playing it for a couple of hours, I can say that I like it a lot.
If you haven't played the flat version, the core gameplay of Arcade Paradise VR revolves around managing a laundromat and gradually adding arcade cabinets to transform it into a bustling hub for retro gaming. You juggle routine tasks like washing and drying clothes, collecting trash, and cleaning the toilet. These tasks may sound mundane, but they are surprisingly engaging in VR. These chores are gamified, adding a layer of satisfaction as you earn money to invest in new arcade machines.
The transition from a flat-screen experience to VR brings notable changes, the most significant being the level of immersion. Tasks that were previously button presses now require physical actions. Picking up trash, sorting clothes by color, and twisting dials all utilize natural hand interactions.
The game starts with a grind, but the sense of progression and achievement is incredibly satisfying. Building up the arcade is where VR truly shines. Walking around the expanding business and playing cabinets feels fully immersive, thanks to VR presence. Stepping onto the classic carpet designs of arcades past is quite nostalgic.
The arcade games were a highlight of the flat version and still are in this VR version. However, most of the arcade games are still operated through traditional inputs on your controllers instead of interacting naturally. Only a handful utilize motion, like light gun shooters, punch-out machines, whack-a-mole etc. I would have loved to see more mini-games that take full advantage of the VR's interactive potential.
There's also a mixed reality mode that allows you to place arcade cabinets in your real-world environment. This feature not only enhances immersion but also brings a unique, personalized touch to the gameplay.
Visually, Arcade Paradise VR is a treat on the Meta Quest 3. The retro aesthetic is faithfully recreated, transporting you back to the golden age of arcades. The game’s vibrant color palette and detailed environments look impressive, although occasional technical hiccups can slightly detract from the experience. The sound design, with its nostalgic music and sound effects, complements the visual presentation perfectly.
One thing I didn't like was the cutscenes. They disrupt your immersion due to their flat nature, and I wish they had added some depth and parallaxing so you don't feel like you are watching a video on a flat screen while in VR. It's a small thing, but when the rest of the game is great, moments like this really stick out.
Still, Arcade Paradise VR is a compelling title that successfully merges business simulation with the excitement of arcade gaming. Its immersive gameplay, combined with the nostalgic presentation, creates a unique and engaging experience. Despite minor technical issues and a limited number of VR-adapted games, the overall package is highly enjoyable and one that I can easily recommend. Thanks for reading!
The game was reviewed on a Quest 3 via a promo copy provided by the publisher. Arcade Paradise VR is available on Meta Quest.
