In this sci-fi adventure, you explore parallel dimensions in mixed reality
Quantum breaks and monster hunting: Wallrus Creative Technology debuts new Mixed Reality experience at SXSW 2025.
Montreal-based creative agency Wallrus Creative Technologies is bringing their latest mixed reality project to SXSW 2025. Called "The Secret Life of Monsters - Gateway," this location-based experience blends physical set design with mixed reality, using Meta Quest 3's pass-through capabilities to create a seamless sense of immersion.
In this 20-minute sci-fi adventure, players step into the boots of a GEU recruit — part of a specialized team exploring parallel realities from a central station known as "Gateway." Your first mission takes you to SOLUM, where you'll investigate three distinct quantum fractures, gathering data about the mysterious creatures that inhabit this surreal world while searching for objects that seem out of place.
The project emerged from a research and development initiative that began nearly four years ago. According to Emile Arragon, Creative Director and co-founder of Wallrus, their biggest challenge was striking the perfect balance — creating an experience accessible enough for XR newcomers while maintaining enough complexity to engage seasoned users.
Visitors can experience "Gateway" at the Fairmont Austin during SXXW 2025, running from March 8 to 11. Whether the experience will eventually make its way to home VR systems or VR arcade venues like Sandbox VR remains to be seen.
The 20-minute VR adventure Gateway takes you into a dark sci-fi world. | Image: Wallrus Creative Technology
SXSW's growing XR presence
SXSW has long served as a showcase for cutting-edge XR projects. At last year's event, Honda demonstrated their "XR Mobility Experience," featuring the Uni-One - a self-balancing chair controlled by body movements that let users "drive" and "fly" through virtual environments.
Honda envisions applications ranging from amusement parks to shopping centers and XR gaming, and is actively recruiting AR/VR developers to create Uni-One applications. The company has already integrated VR into their vehicle design process to accelerate development and enable remote collaboration.
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