Experience the world’s first scripted VR drama at The Viking Planet
When you think of museums, what comes to mind? Static exhibits, quiet halls, and perhaps the occasional guided tour. The Viking Planet in Oslo is here to change all that, bringing history to life with cutting-edge technology and interactive experiences. Among our many attractions, one that stands out is “The Ambush,” the world’s first scripted VR drama produced using volumetric capturing. This captivating experience promises to take you back over a thousand years to a Viking ambush on the western coast of Norway. In this blog post, we’ll dive into what “The Ambush” VR movie entails, how this experience sets itself apart from others, and what you can expect from the advanced VR technology used.
Plan Your Visit | Buy Tickets | Opening Hours: Everyday: 10:00 – 18:00
What Is “The Ambush” VR movie?
“The Ambush” is not just another virtual reality experience; it’s a pioneering effort in the realm of immersive storytelling. Developed in collaboration with Ridley Scott associates and the UK’s Dimension Studio, “The Ambush” is the first scripted drama in VR using volumetric capturing. This technology captures real-life actors in 3D space, allowing them to be placed within a virtual environment seamlessly.
Set more than a thousand years ago on the western coast of Norway, “The Ambush” plunges you into a high-stakes scenario where Viking warriors execute a surprise attack. The film runs for twelve minutes and is designed to be both intense and immersive. It won an award for Best Virtual Reality Production in 2019 at the Aesthetica Short Film Festival, a testament to its quality and innovation. The experience is recommended for visitors twelve years and older and runs every twenty minutes, accommodating up to thirty individuals at a time.
How is this VR experience different from others?
Volumetric Capturing
The standout feature of “The Ambush” is its use of volumetric capturing. Traditional VR experiences often rely on CGI or 360-degree video to create immersive environments. While impressive, these methods can sometimes lack the realism that volumetric capturing provides. This technology uses multiple cameras to capture actors from all angles, resulting in lifelike 3D models that can move and interact within the virtual world. The difference is immediately noticeable, providing a level of immersion and authenticity that sets “The Ambush” apart.
Automated cinema chairs
To further amplify the immersion, “The Ambush” is presented in automated cinema chairs that move in sync with the VR action. As you watch the Viking ship navigate through treacherous waters, your chair will mimic the ship’s movements, adding a visceral layer to your experience. This synergy of visual and physical elements heightens the realism and keeps you completely engrossed.
Scripted drama
Unlike other VR experiences that may focus solely on the environment or interactivity, “The Ambush” is a scripted drama. This narrative-driven approach means you’re not just an observer; you’re a participant in a carefully crafted story. The script and direction create a coherent and emotionally engaging experience, making you feel like you’re part of the unfolding events. This storytelling technique adds depth and richness, making the history come alive in a way that purely factual presentations cannot.
Award-winning production
“The Ambush” has garnered critical acclaim, including winning the Best Virtual Reality Production award at the Aesthetica Short Film Festival in 2019. This recognition highlights the exceptional quality of the experience, from its storytelling and acting to its technical execution. Knowing that you’re about to partake in an award-winning production adds an extra layer of excitement and anticipation.
What can one expect from the VR technology used here?
Immersive environment
Thanks to the state-of-the-art VR technology used at The Viking Planet, viewers are enveloped in an immersive environment that stimulates multiple senses. The visuals are crisp and lifelike, the audio is spatially accurate, and the 3D models are intricately detailed. This multi-sensory approach makes you feel like you’ve traveled back in time, experiencing the world as it was during the Viking Age.
Interactive elements
While “The Ambush” is primarily a scripted experience, it also incorporates interactive elements to keep viewers engaged. By looking around and focusing on different parts of the scene, you can discover hidden details or follow various aspects of the story. This level of interactivity ensures that each viewing can offer something new, encouraging repeat visits.
The Viking Planet’s “The Ambush” VR movie is a groundbreaking experience that redefines what an interactive Viking museum can offer. Combining advanced volumetric capturing with a scripted narrative, this award-winning VR drama offers an unprecedented level of immersion and storytelling. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a VR aficionado, or a curious visitor, this experience promises to be both educational and exhilarating.
Ready to experience the world’s first scripted VR drama? Plan your visit and buy your tickets today. The Viking Planet is open every day from 10:00 to 18:00, offering a one-of-a-kind journey through Viking history. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to experience history like never before!