Middlesbrough FC has released a new virtual reality app that gives fans a chance to go behind the scenes at Riverside Stadium.
The Boro VR 360 experience app is designed with Teesside-based emerging technology company Spearhead Interactive and gives fans a unique insight into a Riverside match day by following the players’ perspective from the time they step off the bus and make the walk onto the field.
Fans can virtually walk through the players’ entrance before heading to the home team’s locker room. Once inside, users can view individual profiles for each athlete and participate in interactive exercises to learn more about the entire team.
What has been considered as the highlight for most users is being able to virtually walk through the tunnel and onto the field with the team prior to kick off. With the stadium light-show in full effect and crowd cheering in the background, users can feel as if they are in the stadium.
“We’re delighted to be taking our first steps into this emerging technology and continuing to develop ways that will bring fans closer to the club,” Bob Tait, head of digital and marketing development at MFC, said in a statement. “The club and Spearhead have focused on creating a quality experience that will really bring the players’ matchday experience to the fans. We are sure that unique behind-the-scenes content will be of equal interest to both our local Teesside faithful and fans further afield.”
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The app that is available on the iOS App Store and Google Play for £1.99 made its debut Saturday at the stadium, where Boro-branded cardboard VR headsets were made available for £10.50.
There is also a pared-down 2D 360 experience can also be enjoyed via the free Boro 360 app available for those without a VR headset.