Seattle Culture
Virtual Playground
VR social gaming launches in Bellevue
By Sarah Stackhouse July 17, 2024
![image002-16-9-2000x1125 A futuristic virtual playground where players on colorful lanes compete in an interactive arena, with an audience watching from the sidelines. Scoreboards and game avatars are visible above the players, blending digital fun with intense competition.](https://cdn.shortpixel.ai/spai2/q_lossy+ret_img+to_webp/staging.seattlemag.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/image002-16-9-2000x1125-1.jpg)
Brush up on your VR gaming skills so you don’t flail in front of an audience — though, that’s meant to be part of the fun.
Mirra, a “new-to-market social entertainment concept,” is opening in Bellevue this August. Located on Lincoln Square South’s third floor as part of the Bellevue Collection, the 10,708-square-foot space will be filled with the latest VR technology.
Players will wear VR headsets and see their moves mirrored by avatars on giant 8K LED screens. Games will include dancing, treasure hunting, laser dodging, bubble matching, hitting jackpots, and hockey, and can be played in hour-long sessions. The games are meant to be played in groups and are suited to any skill level. Up to eight people can play as a team, with up to 32 players for full competitions.
“Our venue takes the party game concept to new heights,” says Mirra founder Sam Wang. “It’s not just about playing the game, it’s about the shared energy and excitement — a captivating experience for players and observers alike.”
The venue will also offer food and cocktails. Panoramic 8K LED screens will display different environments as backdrops, such as tropical forests and busy nightclubs.
Mirra is designed to be a fully immersive social experience. “We’re merging VR technology with a vibrant social scene to create unforgettable events.” Wang says.
After 6 p.m., the space will become a 21-plus venue open until midnight. It can host nearly 500 guests, accommodating corporate events, parties, or a night out with a big group of friends.
“The Bellevue Collection sees this launch as an unprecedented opportunity to host the world’s first social gameplay arena right here in Bellevue,” says Jennifer Leavitt, vice president of marketing for Kemper Development Co., the builder, owner, and operator of the Bellevue Collection.
Mirra was founded in 2020 and is headquartered in Bellevue. This is its first location. Mirra designs, programs and develops all of its games. Six games will be released initially, with more in development.