A new kind of entertainment experience has arrived in Brentwood with the opening of VRNexGEN a fully immersive virtual reality game center designed for kids, families, and adults alike.
Founded by local residents Ashish Marwaha and Prashant Sharma, the virtual reality center is the result of more than a year and a half of planning, research, and hands-on development. The idea was born out of a shared passion for business, technology, and creating something meaningful for the community—especially for kids.
“We both wanted to do something with children, something fun and positive,” said Marwaha “When we realized our goals aligned, we started exploring ideas and asked ourselves: what does Brentwood not have?”
The answer was clear—an immersive entertainment option that goes beyond traditional arcades.
From Community Roots to a Unique Concept
The two founders first met through a local nonprofit organization they both volunteered with after moving to the area in 2021. As their friendship grew, so did conversations about starting a business together—one that would serve local families and fill a gap in Brentwood and surrounding cities like Oakley, Antioch, and Pittsburg.
After months of brainstorming, they landed on a virtual reality family entertainment center—something still rare in East Contra Costa County. To refine their vision, they traveled to Orlando to attend the IAAPA Conference, one of the largest global conventions for family entertainment centers.
“That trip changed everything,” said Sharma. “We saw what was possible, built connections, and knew this was the direction we wanted to go.”
What VRNexGEN Offers
The facility features over 50 virtual reality games, ranging from action-packed zombie shooters and escape rooms to dance, cooking, and adventure games. Sessions can last anywhere from five minutes to a full hour, depending on the experience.
The center is designed for guests ages 6 and up, with games suitable for all energy levels and interests. Players move freely within dedicated arenas, making the experience both interactive and physical.
“These aren’t sit-on-the-couch games,” explained Marwaha. “You’re moving, running, dodging, and working as a team. People actually will break a sweat.”
Each arena can host up to eight players at a time, and the facility can accommodate larger groups by running multiple arenas simultaneously. They also offer birthday parties, team-building events, and private group bookings, complete with party rooms where guests can relax and celebrate after gameplay.
Unlike traditional arcades, VRNexGEN focuses entirely on immersive technology—no consoles or standard video games. Players use VR headsets, controllers, and even haptic vests that let them feel in-game action through vibrations.
Built for Community and the Future
While gaming is a core attraction, the founders emphasize that VRNexGEN is about more than just games.
“We want to create memories, “said Ashish. “This is a place for families, friends, coworkers—anyone—to come together and experience something different.”
The business also reflects the future of entertainment. New games are added regularly, with plans to introduce at least three new experiences every year, ensuring repeat visitors always have something fresh to try—but point out each game experience is different based on game play and teammates. Future additions may include leagues, tournaments, and new immersive technologies showcased at industry events.
Opening the center was not without challenges. The unique, wall-free VR setup required extensive coordination with city officials and fire safety authorities, as well as unexpected construction and compliance costs. Still, the founders say the learning experience has been invaluable.
“If we open a second location—and we plan to—this one gave us the blueprint,” they said.
A New Entertainment Option for Brentwood
Located in Brentwood, VRNexGEN fills a long-standing gap in local family entertainment, offering a modern alternative to traditional arcades and play centers. With its blend of technology, physical activity, and social interaction, the owners hope it becomes a hub for the community.
“This is just the beginning,” said Sharma,. “We’re excited to see people walk in, try it for the first time, and leave talking about it.”
With a soft opening set for Sunday, they are now preparing for its grand opening in the near future.
For more information, game options, and bookings, visitors can check out the center’s website or stop by in person to experience the next generation of virtual reality.
VRNexGEN
2510 Sand Creek Rd, Brentwood, CA
www.vrnexgen.com
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