WARSTATION VS SANDBOX VR: WHICH VR FRANCHISE TO CHOOSE?

Free-roam VR arenas have been gaining popularity worldwide, and entrepreneurs interested in entering this market often have to choose between two established franchises: SANDBOX VR and WARSTATION. Both companies operate in the same field, but they have different approaches to offering VR entertainment. In this article, we will examine the key differences between them.

Format and positioning

SANDBOX VR is a global network that relies on cinematic quests created in collaboration with Hollywood studios. Their main target audience is adults seeking a new form of entertainment, and the company positions itself as premium entertainment that requires a high-quality service and experience.

WARSTATION, on the other hand, offers a more flexible format because it focuses on versatility. The game library includes both dynamic PvE shooters for adults and fantastic adventures for children, catering to a wide range of audiences, from families with kids to corporate clients.

Investment and payoff period

SANDBOX VR has a high initial investment, with costs ranging from $1.427 million to $2.890 million for starting a business in 2025. These costs include:

• Investment fee of $50K
• Construction work up to $1.675 million
• Equipment up to $500K
• Initial marketing and operating expenses

WARSTATION has a much lower entry cost, starting from 2 million rubles (~$25K - $30K) for an area of 150 square metres or more. There are no royalties, and the cost structure is simpler. Businesses reach break-even in an average of 6 - 9 months, making it an attractive option for entrepreneurs with limited budgets.

Games and updates

SANDBOX VR focuses on high-budget, story-driven games that are beautiful, but as many users note, once you complete a quest, there is no desire to play the same game again. Content updates are infrequent, as new games require long production times and approval processes.

WARSTATION, at another point, relies on dynamic and variable gameplay, including PvE battles, competitive modes, and cooperative missions. The game library contains six original projects, each designed with the specific age group and level of player experience in mind. From fabulous adventures for younger players to tactical shooters with team interactions for adults. This approach ensures stable customer flow and sustained interest among visitors, including steady customers.

Flexibility and support

Both platforms offer flexibility and support for their partners, but SANDBOX VR requires them to follow strict guidelines. From the signage to the welcome of guests, everything must comply with approved standards. This type of cooperation is ideal for franchisees who do not prioritise creative self-expression.

WARSTATION, on the contrary, offers more flexibility. Franchisees have the freedom to operate under their own name, design their space, and set prices (within recommended ranges). This option is suitable for those who wish to maintain some entrepreneurial independence. Additionally, all support is provided in English, ensuring a seamless experience without language barriers.

Target audience and customer flow

SANDBOX VR caters to individual visitors and small groups. Games are designed for up to 6 people at a time, and children's birthdays are not a primary focus. WARSTATION works well with various types of audiences. Children's birthday parties, corporate events, gaming or family gatherings – the franchise offers options suitable for each occasion. This helps to balance the workload and reduce seasonality.

To sum up, if you are an investor with significant start-up capital, SANDBOX VR could be a suitable option for you, but franchise restrictions and longer payback periods should be taken into account.

WARSTATION offers a more flexible approach. There are lower initial investment costs, a broader range of clients, and greater managerial freedom. This is particularly important in uncertain economic conditions, where flexibility is more valuable than a well-known name.

We hope this information will help you make the right choice.

Stay tuned!