IQiyi Launches ‘Luoyang VR Project’ in Shanghai, Expanding the Boundaries of Virtual Reality Entertainment
iQiyi Launches Unique VR Experience in Shanghai
Shanghai played host to the unveiling of iQiyi’s latest foray into Virtual Reality (VR). The Chinese streaming firm introduced its ‘Luoyang VR Project’ – an immersive studio-based experience set in the ancient city of Luoyang. With 12 different entertainment zones, participants can experience high winds, waterfalls, and explosions. Employing advanced sensory-simulation techniques and state-of-the-art “inside-out tracking” technology, the project promises a realistic environment that transports the audience into the story.
Since its launch, the Luoyang VR Project has attracted over 5,000 users and has plans to relocate to Luoyang itself and then Beijing. This initiative marks iQiyi’s continued expansion into VR, following the establishment of its Dreamverse studio in 2018. The company has been curating VR projects and fully-immersive experiences since 2020, aiming to unlock the full potential of numerous IPs in the Chinese content market.
Zhang Hang, iQiyi’s senior VP, emphasized the significance of the Luoyang VR Project in exploring the commercialization of VR and boosting cultural consumption. He mentioned that by incorporating technological innovations and a localized approach, the project showcases the immense possibilities available for original IP-based projects in the industry.
iQiyi’s partner, X-META, a metaverse-themed park, is the offline operator of the Luoyang VR Project. Hu Shihui, the founder and CEO of X-META, highlighted the project’s immersive theater experience and its additional elements of dining, costume dressing, and photoshoot opportunities, which further enhance user engagement and generate interest.
Building on the success of the Luoyang VR Project, iQiyi plans to launch three new interactive experiences in June: “Mars Rescue,” “Kunlun Maze,” and “Apocalyptic Adventure.” These projects are specifically designed to cater to different audience segments, including couples.