Hero Zone, a leading creator of immersive VR experiences, has announced it is to acquire Phenomena's VR eSport Arena.
The company has entered into an exclusive binding agreement to acquire the cutting-edge competitive VR gaming platform, used in arcades and FECs across the world.
The transaction is expected to close by the end of this year, and Phenomena’s games and technology will migrate into Hero Zone’s ecosystem in 2026.
The acquisition strengthens Hero Zone's position as the largest free-roam VR company in the world.
The company is now operating in more than 550 locations globally, following its recent acquisition of Spree VR.
Hero Zone will integrate Phenomena’s advanced platform and acclaimed game library, expanding its portfolio of competitive VR experiences.
"This acquisition marks an exciting new chapter for Hero Zone,” said Sebastian Malavasi, CEO of Hero Zone VR.
“Phenomena has built one of the strongest brands in the location-based entertainment industry, with the leading laser-tag VR game Versus and exceptional marketing.
"Their platform perfectly complements our mission, and we’re thrilled to welcome their talented team.
"With Phenomena joining us, we now have a solid presence across both Europe and North America, strengthening our global reach and offering the largest exclusive game catalogue in the free-roam VR market.”
Hero Zone: world's largest free-roam VR company
Canadian immersive entertainment company Phenomena developed the VR eSport Arena platform as a flexible, multiplayer system.
“The time for consolidation is now," said Awane Jones, CEO of Phenomena.
"Operators have been asking for a unified platform that brings together the very best games, and with this acquisition, we are delivering on that promise.
“Hero Zone shares our vision of building the world’s leading free-roam VR platform – one that empowers operators to succeed by offering top-tier games and products under a single organization.
"This partnership ensures that the technology, creativity, and community we’ve built will continue to thrive within a company that truly understands operators’ needs."
Following the acquisition, Jones will stay on as general manager of North America, alongside the rest of the Phenomena team.
The Phenomena eSport Arena platform will continue to operate independently, ensuring uninterrupted support and service for all current operators.
Hero Zone and Phenomena will jointly showcase their partnership at IAAPA Orlando, including the world premiere of their new immersive VR experience, Terminator 2: Judgment Day.
Images courtesy of Hero Zone and Phenomena
