How Gorilla Tag is weathering the VR winter

Gorilla Tag’s Leap Beyond VR: A Look at the Future of Social Gaming

Gorilla Tag, the unexpectedly popular VR title from Another Axiom, isn’t just surviving the current slowdown in the VR market – it’s thriving. Reaching a peak of 119,000 concurrent players during its fifth-anniversary event, the game demonstrates a remarkable level of engagement, particularly among Gen Alpha. But Another Axiom isn’t content with remaining solely within the confines of virtual reality.

The Power of a Dedicated Fandom

What started as a simple, free-to-play tag game utilizing unique arm-swinging locomotion has blossomed into a cultural phenomenon. Gorilla Tag consistently tops the bestseller charts on Meta’s Quest store and has generated nearly $10 million in merchandise sales, including frequently sold-out plush toys. This success isn’t just about the game itself. it’s about the community. According to Another Axiom’s chief marketing officer, Jake Zim, “The fandom is bigger than just VR.”

Expanding the Monke Universe: Mobile, TV and Live Events

Another Axiom is actively pursuing expansion beyond VR headsets. Plans include a mobile game adaptation, a live event – dubbed “Gorillacon” – and even a television show. This multi-platform approach signals a belief in the enduring appeal of the Gorilla Tag universe and its characters, the “monkes.” The company recognizes the potential to tell more stories within this world, leveraging the existing fanbase across different mediums.

Navigating the Challenges of the VR Landscape

Despite its success, Another Axiom acknowledges the challenges facing the VR industry as a whole. Zim admits that the VR ecosystem is “very challenged,” and the recent changes at Meta create uncertainty about the medium’s future. This awareness likely fuels the company’s diversification strategy, reducing its reliance on a single platform.

The Rise of User-Generated Content and Experiments

Gorilla Tag isn’t static. The game continually evolves with new “experiments” like Ghost Reactor, Hoverboard Racing, Monke Ball, and Prop Hunt, alongside a thriving ecosystem of player-created maps. This commitment to fresh content and community involvement keeps players engaged and fosters a sense of ownership.

Orion Drift: Another Axiom’s Next Venture

Building on the success of Gorilla Tag, Another Axiom recently launched Early Access for its new VR game, Orion Drift. This space-themed multiplayer experience utilizes the studio’s signature movement mechanics, indicating a continued focus on innovative locomotion within virtual reality. Orion Drift is currently available for Meta Quest 3.

What Makes Gorilla Tag So Appealing?

The game’s simplicity is a key factor. With no buttons or teleportation, Gorilla Tag relies entirely on physical movement, offering a unique and immersive VR experience. This accessibility, combined with the chaotic fun of tag, has resonated with a young audience.

FAQ

Q: Is Gorilla Tag free to play?
A: Yes, Gorilla Tag is a free-to-play game available on Meta Quest.

Q: What is Another Axiom working on besides Gorilla Tag?
A: Another Axiom is developing a mobile game, planning a live event (Gorillacon), and working on a TV show based on the Gorilla Tag universe. They have also released Orion Drift into Early Access.

Q: Is VR a growing market?
A: While facing challenges, the VR market continues to evolve. Gorilla Tag’s success demonstrates the potential for engaging VR experiences, but the overall ecosystem is in a period of transition.

Did you know? Gorilla Tag has surpassed 100,000 user ratings on Meta Quest, a testament to its widespread popularity.

Pro Tip: Explore the player-created maps in Gorilla Tag for a constantly evolving and unique gameplay experience.

Want to learn more about the latest trends in VR and social gaming? Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly updates and in-depth analysis.