Virtual reality gaming company coming to the Strip District

A new entertainment option — one with your choice of zombies, pirates or space exploration — will be setting up shop in the Strip District.

Virtual reality gaming company Sandbox VR is expected to move into The Terminal on Smallman Street this summer.

The 5,571-square-foot location will be the first in Pennsylvania for the San Francisco-based company, which says it offers an immersive, full-body virtual reality platform inspired by Star Trek’s Holodeck, which created simulations aboard the ships. The experience is for groups of up to six, where players can interact with everyone inside.

The company said the games are designed by EA, Sony and Ubisoft veterans. Sandbox VR’s latest round raised over $37 million from investors including Andreessen Horowitz, Alibaba Entrepreneurs Fund, Gobi Partners, and Craft.

“This is a very exciting addition to The Terminal,” said Dan McCaffery, CEO of McCaffery, developer and manager of The Terminal. “Sandbox VR will offer a unique experience that will fit in with the personality and excitement available within the Strip District.”

The Terminal is home to other dining and entertainment options, like Puttshack, Aslin Beer Company, Posman’s Books, Chipotle and City Winery.

Players can expect to be equipped with a VR headset, a haptic vest, and motion sensors on their wrists and ankles. The technology allows players to see and physically interact with one another.

“We chose Pittsburgh, and specifically The Terminal, for our very first Pennsylvania location because we wanted to be where people live, work, shop, dine, and play,” said David Friedman, global SVP of real estate for Sandbox VR.

“Sandbox VR is a great place for companies to host team-building exercises and for families and friends to come together for social events. The Terminal’s focus on pedestrian access and ease-of-use makes it a destination for residents and visitors alike, which is a critical feature for our entertainment offering. This location is uniquely Pittsburgh and we are thrilled to join this bustling community and become part of the Strip District’s rich history.”

Sandbox VR operates in over 35 locations.