Zero Latency VR South Austin offers free-roam virtual reality in renovated space

Editor's note: This story has been updated to omit Zero Latency VR Austin founder's name for privacy and to provide the correct link for Zero Latency VR location in South Austin.

Virtual reality and entertainment center Zero Latency VR Austin celebrated the full build-out of their free-roam space with a ribbon cutting July 31, in partnership with Austin Chamber of Commerce.

Previously a mixed-martial arts gym, co-founder Zac Rucker has been working the past two years with his former founding partner to transform the location into a VR space at Southpark Meadows.

The spot opened in late 2023, but, “It was just a lot emptier,” Rucker said.

In the now fully-renovated space, the location features an open arena about the size of a tennis court, Rucker said, for up to eight players to use while being immersed in their game of choice, from escape rooms to competitive games.

Games include fan-favorites Zombie Outbreak and Space Marine VR, or Rucker’s favorite Sol Raiders, in a selection of over 12 VR games to choose from.

“We can see that when they take the headset off after the game, they’re all red faced and their eyes are wide and they’re like, ‘Oh my God, I just survived the apocalypse,” he said.

The business also features a separated section from the VR areas for axe throwing, called The Axe Force.

Zero Latency VR Austin also offers bookings for birthday parties, corporate team-building and other group events. The spot has also hosted VR tournaments in the past, Rucker said.

The company has locations across Central Texas including a North Austin location, in addition to national and international spots.

More on the co-founder

“This is kind of our nerdy dream,” Rucker told Community Impact.

Rucker’s technology, military and gaming background combined with his co-founding partner's technology expertise, the two owners converged their interests and skills to establish the Austin location, Rucker said.

“This is one way that we found we can turn our passion for tech and gaming into something that’ll put food on the table,” he said.

“At the end of the day, we want people to have a good time,” he said. “We want them to tell their friends and family that they went and did this awesome game and that they got to come try it.”

• Opened November 2023
• 9900 I-35, Ste. M500, Austin
• https://zerolatencysouthaustin.com/