—————————————————— Things to Do: Reef Rescue at Moody Gardens in Galveston | Houston Press

Nature

Sharks Aren't the Only Dangers in Moody Gardens' Reef Rescue VR

Reef Rescue is a 360 degree virtual reality experience where up to 15 players compete to see who can perform the most tasks to help preserve the health of coral reefs.
Reef Rescue is a 360 degree virtual reality experience where up to 15 players compete to see who can perform the most tasks to help preserve the health of coral reefs. Animation by Super 78 Studios
Reef Rescue is a new VR experience at Moody Gardens that lets up to 15 players virtually dive in a colorful 360 degree coral reef environment. Each player's avatar is a mini submarine and there are tasks to accomplish, but be forewarned that great white sharks are always lurking nearby, in search of their next meal.

"There is a pesky shark, as always. Yeah, you’ve got to watch out for the sharks but of course all animals under the sea are our friends. They belong in the ocean just as much as all other sea creatures," says Kevin Aguilar, public relations coordinator for Moody Gardens.

Rack up points by blasting trash into oblivion, planting coral and feeding fish. Players can view their own scores on robotic arms, then see how they compare on the leaderboard after the game ends.

"It’s really unique. We’re so in tune with our technology and smart phones. Adults are really responding well; it’s a lot of fun," says Aguilar, who says the game also communicates an important message by calling attention to how marine debris can damage important marine habitats, such as coral reefs. Humans and their trash are one of the biggest dangers to the health of our oceans.

"After playing the game and upon exit you’ll see signage in the gaming area that has tips for what you can do to save the coral reefs: Planting a tree to reduce runoff, conserving water, talking to representatives to take action, bringing more awareness, supporting reef friendly businesses."

click to enlarge
Help make the coral reefs healthier by blasting trash, planting new coral, and feeding the schools of exotic fish.
Animation by Super 78 Studios
Aguilar suggests pairing Reef Rescue with a trip to the Aquarium Pyramid. "It's really fun. Play the game first, get the 360 degree experience going and then walk over to the aquarium for a hands-on experience," says Aguilar, about the touch tanks featuring jelly fish, stingrays and other crustaceans.

Reef Rescue was developed by Super 78, a media production company that has designed flying films, interactive character experiences, 4D attractions, and immersion tunnels.

Reef Rescue continues through spring 2020 at 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily at Moody Gardens, One Hope Boulevard, Galveston. For information, call 409-744-4673 or visit moodygardens.org. $6 to $7.
Access to the Aquarium Pyramid calls for a separate ticket, $25.95 to $31.95; free for children ages 0-3.
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Susie Tommaney is a contributing writer who enjoys covering the lively arts and culture scene in Houston and surrounding areas, connecting creative makers with the Houston Press readers to make every week a great one.
Contact: Susie Tommaney