The VR arcade market is changing. Synthesis VR has made a bold move by acquiring SpringboardVR, a major player in the VR arcade game software distribution industry. This action brings them closer together and strengthens their power.
The free roam VR arcade market holds immense potential. It appeals to both casual gamers and hardcore enthusiasts, providing immersive experiences that can’t be replicated at home. The acquisition of SpringboardVR by Synthesis VR is not just about expanding their portfolio; it’s about solidifying the future landscape of location-based virtual reality (LBVR).
As competition intensifies, this acquisition sets the stage for innovation and growth in an industry ripe with opportunity.
See Cooney’s take below…
The acquisition news broke on February 1st, 2025, when SynthesisVR announced it had acquired SpringboardVR from Vertigo Games. This strategic move signals a significant shift in the VR arcade landscape.
This acquisition aims to create a more robust foundation for arcade operators and developers, boosting operational efficiency and innovation. The combination of SynthesisVR’s established free-roam library and capabilities with SpringboardVR’s popular interface could enhance their competitive edge in the location-based VR (LBVR) sector.
Vertigo Games has been a significant player in the VR landscape, known for its compelling titles. Established in 2008, the company built a reputation for creating immersive experiences.
Vertigo Games acquired SpringboardVR, a location-based VR content distribution platform, enhancing its portfolio. SpringboardVR thrived under this ownership, leveraging Vertigo’s resources and industry connections.
Vertigo Games’ strategic focus on innovative content solidified its influence in the growing VR market. The transition to SynthesisVR marks a new chapter, but the legacy of its titles remains impactful.
The VR arcade market is going through an important phase as it undergoes consolidation. Synthesis VR, a platform created to enhance VR arcade operations with customized tools and the newest VR content, has recently acquired Springboard, an innovative virtual reality platform recognized for transforming the way arcade businesses run VR. This acquisition aims to consolidate the VR arcade game software distribution market, which is a significant development in the industry. Key aspects include:
In this shifting environment, adaptability becomes essential for both operators and developers, paving the way for future growth in immersive gaming experiences.
The consumer VR games industry is facing significant challenges due to economic instability. Financial difficulties have resulted in layoffs at several well-known companies, such as:
These layoffs indicate a larger problem of instability within the gaming industry. Market pressures are making it difficult for companies to innovate and grow, forcing them to make difficult choices. As development costs increase, many firms are struggling to stay afloat while trying to create engaging experiences. The location-based VR industry is no different.
This uncertainty poses risks for both established companies and newcomers. A weak ecosystem can discourage investments in technology and talent, which will have a negative impact on the overall industry. The recent acquisition of SpringboardVR by SynthesisVR highlights the need for strategic partnerships and shared resources in this context. To succeed in the ever-changing VR industry, it is essential to confront these challenges directly.
The acquisition of SpringboardVR by SynthesisVR opens up many opportunities. The key advantages come from the collaboration between the two platforms:
SynthesisVR’s powerful virtual reality management software combined with Springboard’s user-friendly interface could make increase both user and operator experience. Arcade operators benefit from powerful and intuitive tools that simplify game management and enhance customer experiences.
The merger increases the potential for new and exciting content. With shared resources, both companies can work together on creating new games and experiences that captivate users. This partnership allows for greater investment in creative development, pushing the boundaries of what location-based VR can offer.
The integration brings both companies together towards a common goal: transforming the arcade experience and strengthening their position in a competitive market. The future looks promising for both SynthesisVR and SpringboardVR as they combine their strengths.
The acquisition positions SynthesisVR and Springboard to redefine the future of location-based VR gaming.
The demand for immersive experiences continues to rise, with analysts forecasting growth in location-based VR experiences. This trend indicates a robust market potential as consumers seek unique entertainment options.
The consolidation opens doors for innovative game titles and strategic partnerships. Expect collaborations that leverage the strengths of both platforms, enhancing content innovation in VR.
With SynthesisVR acquiring Springboard, the consolidation strengthens their foothold in the VR arcade game software distribution market. Arcade operators can anticipate an influx of engaging content tailored to audience demands. Enhanced offerings will likely attract a broader clientele, fueling further expansion in this dynamic sector.
The acquisition of SpringboardVR by SynthesisVR opens doors for arcade operators and developers in significant ways. Developers now have one platform that they need to integrate to hit more than 90% of VR arcades globally.
As these changes unfold, LBE VR experiences become more robust. The combination of resources might not only strengthens the operational framework but also could elevate the entertainment experience for users. As this evolution takes shape, the potential for arcade operators to deliver captivating and immersive experiences expands significantly.
Richard Stitselaar, CEO of Vertigo Games, shared key insights following the acquisition. His statements highlight a clear vision for the future:
This leadership perspective underscores a proactive approach towards evolving the VR gaming ecosystem while keeping user experience at the forefront.
“I’ve worked with both Synthesis and Springboard over the last decade. I advised the founder of Springboard to get out of the arcade business early on because of the challenging go-to-market. Fortunately they listened, selling to Vertigo Games and then starting Arbor XR, which focuses on enterprise VR software distribution and device management.”
“Despite the press release, it makes no sense at all for the combined companies to maintain two code bases. I’m sure this is a way for them to limit potential blowback from Springboard customers, who chose and stick with that platform for it’s ease of use. Synthesis VR is known as a more powerful and flexible platform, but ease of use is something even the company admits is needs work on.”
“Hopefully management will find efficiencies early on in the merger, and use the excess resources to take the best of Springboard and merge it into the Synthesis code base. I’ve run product for large LBE software platforms, and I know how hard it is once a code base gets more than 5 years old to make wholesale changes. It won’t be easy, but Synthesis’ engineers are quite capable.”
“This is the first big announcement in a wave of consolidation that I predicted last year. There are too many companies selling similar product and services into a small market. The VR Collective tracks almost 50 companies selling over 250 free roam VR games, most with their own launchers. It’s absurd for small developers to spend engineering time reproducting features that are already in the market.”
The ecosystem needs to consolidate and collaborate more. Keep your eye on this space as this trend picks up steam.
Synthesis VR’s acquisition of SpringboardVR marks a pivotal moment in the VR arcade game software distribution market.
Arcade operators can now expect streamlined operations and access to an expanded library of popular titles. As the industry evolves, Synthesis VR continues to set the stage for significant advancements.
The acquisition of SpringboardVR by Synthesis VR is a strategic move to consolidate the VR arcade game software distribution market, enhancing Synthesis VR’s position as a leader in this evolving sector.
While specific financial aspects of the acquisition remain undisclosed, it marks an important step in strengthening the operational structure and resources available for both Synthesis VR and SpringboardVR.
The acquisition is expected to bolster the location-based entertainment (LBE) sector within the VR arcade market, providing enhanced resources and opportunities for innovation in VR experiences.
The VR arcade industry is highly fragmented with too many companies selling similar products into a small, and marginally profitable market. More consolidation is needed.
The merger creates synergies between SynthesisVR’s advanced virtual reality management software and Springboard’s user-friendly platform, paving the way for content innovation and improved operational efficiencies.
The acquisition positions Synthesis VR to explore new growth opportunities in location-based VR experiences, including potential partnerships and innovative game titles that could enhance user engagement in arcades.