You can now try the HTC Vive at a few GameStop and Microsoft stores

Try before you buy.
 By 
Raymond Wong
 on 
Original image replaced with Mashable logo
Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

It's a glorious time. Both the Oculus Rift and HTC Vive have finally shipped to consumers. Virtual reality, more than any other gadget, is something that you can't fathom until you put a headset on and experience the wonders of VR for yourself.

HTC's making it easier for consumers to try the Vive and its unique motion controllers by setting them up in select GameStop and Microsoft Stores. 


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The following GameStop stores will have Vive demo stations set up, starting on April 16.

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Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

There are three Microsoft Store locations in the U.S. with Vive demo stations ready this week: At the flagship store on Fifth Avenue in New York, in Bellevue Square in Washington and at the City Creek Center in Utah. By the end of the year, there will be 30 Microsoft retail stores with Vive demo stations.

The Vive is different from the Oculus Rift in that it supports room-scale VR, meaning you can move within a 15-by-15-foot space. It's far more immersive than the seated experience of the Rift.

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Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

The Vive also comes with two motion controllers that replicate your hands in the VR world. The controllers are more natural than using an Xbox One controller (like it is on the Rift).

Installing Vive demo stations at retail stores is a good way for HTC to let consumers try it out firsthand and decide if it's worth the $800 or not.

Have something to add to this story? Share it in the comments.


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Raymond Wong

Raymond Wong is Mashable's Senior Tech Correspondent. He reviews gadgets and tech toys and analyzes the tech industry. Raymond's also a bit of a camera geek, gamer, and fine chocolate lover. Before arriving at Mashable, he was the Deputy Editor of NBC Universal's tech publication DVICE. His writing has appeared on G4TV, BGR, Yahoo and Ubergizmo, to name a few. You can follow Raymond on Twitter @raywongy or Instagram @sourlemons.

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