Imagine a huge empty warehouse, plunged into a twilight only broken by light animations projected on the ground. And in the middle of this atmosphere sometimes evoking a discotheque, sometimes a living fresco, vehicles multiplying the comings and goings in search of points allowing to increase their score. It is the astonishing setting in which the customers of Battlekart, a new leisure concept launched in France
since the beginning of summer.
A first site opened in Tours in June. A second just from imitate him in Saint-Sébastien-sur-Loire, in the Nantes suburbs. “We are halfway between karting and video games,” says Anne, who was among the first customers last week. It’s very, very playful. I did not expect that. “
Score goals, kill viruses, collect bonuses …
The activity offers fifteen-minute games to choose from among five game modes. The player then takes the controls of an electric kart, accelerates or brakes when he wishes, and tries to accomplish his mission using the elements. virtual ones projected around him: going as fast as possible on a circuit, scoring goals, to kill mutant viruses, collect bonuses, color as many boxes as possible… Solo or in a team.
“We use a patented technology based on augmented reality. The room is equipped with 38 projectors and 70 sensors to allow the karts to interact. It’s very specific, ”explains Tanguy Menssion, manager of Battlekart Nantes, which has invested 500,000 euros in equipment. “The objective is to offer an unprecedented playing experience, with sensations but without the competitive side,” he continues. It’s pure recreation. It is also accessible to everyone, whatever their age, from the moment you measure 1.45 m [pour toucher les pédales]. “
“We immediately feel safe”
The technology also minimizes the risk of collisions and track overruns, which can sometimes scare off karting novices. So much so that the helmet is not necessary. “The speed is restricted,” indicates Tanguy Menssion. If two karts come too close to each other, they will automatically slow down. If a kart leaves the playing area, the game is immediately suspended. “
Lola, who came to test Battlekart with her family, appreciates this aspect. “We are in a kart, but we immediately feel safe. And then there is no smell, no noise. It’s very nice. “Felix, he is amazed by the diversity of the game modes.” We can send missiles, recover objects, collaborate as a team. It’s funnier than traditional karting, ”he says. Older, Philippe preferred the racing mode, which naturally evokes Mario Kart. “It’s a very good experience. We will come back I think. “
“A bit expensive for a quarter of an hour”
In terms of criticism: the instructions, sometimes considered “complex”, the “lack of speed” for adrenaline lovers, and, above all, the price (22 euros the first part, 18 euros the following). “It’s a bit expensive for a quarter of an hour I think. The time to tame the kart and the game, it ends quickly ”, reproaches a user. “It’s innovative, defends Tanguy Menssion. No other place offers this type of activity. “To believe the manager, attendance is already” encouraging “. “We also have requests from businesses or for stag or hen parties,” he adds.
Born in Belgium in 2015, Battlekart currently has nine franchised centers in Europe.