Inside the new VRNexGen virtual reality entertainment venue in Brentwood. Photo: City of Brentwood
VRNexGEN offers local youth new activity option with “The Ultimate VR Arena Experience”
By Melissa Ballesteros, Executive Assistant, City of Brentwood Manager’s Office
Brentwood residents, Prashant Sharma and Ashish Marwa, have opened a new virtual reality (VR) entertainment venue offering active, team-based experiences for families, students, and groups. VRNexGEN, at the Sand Creek Crossing Shopping Center, adds a high-energy recreation option within Brentwood, reducing the need for families to travel to neighboring cities for similar activities.
“We wanted to create something here that gives kids and families a place to celebrate, be active, and connect, without leaving town,” expressed Sharma.
Sharma and Marwa are both active members of the United Indian Association and first connected through volunteer efforts supporting community events, including the Community Day of Service, Holi and Diwali. As parents of middle and high school students, they saw firsthand that birthday parties and weekend outings often required trips to Livermore, Walnut Creek or Concord. Their shared goal was to bring a modern, interactive recreation destination to Brentwood. One that encourages physical activity, communication, and teamwork.
“The community consistently asks for more things for teens and youth to do locally,” said Mayor Susannah Meyer. “VRNexGEN is exactly the kind of new option families have been looking for. Active, social, and right here in Brentwood.”
A team of friends in real life and as they appear in virtual reality. Source: VRNexGen video screenshots.
Offering what the website refers to as “The Ultimate VR Arena Experience,” the facility features free-roam areas where players are untethered and can move through immersive virtual environments while collaborating on missions or competing for high scores. Games include “Omega Protocol” and “Enter the Duat,” both designed around coordination and group problem-solving.
Teams consist of two to 20 players and age-appropriate games for those six years old and up, last 30 minutes or an hour. Each player is provided with virtual reality visual and hand-held equipment.
“Our focus was to build something that gets people moving and working together,” said Marwa. “We’re excited to offer an experience that’s technology-driven, interactive, and welcoming for families, students, and groups.”
“New businesses that respond directly to community interests help strengthen Brentwood’s quality of life,” said City Manager G. Harold Duffey. “VRNexGEN adds a new local destination for families and youth while contributing to our vibrant local economy.”
Following their grand opening on Jan. 25th, Sharma and Marwa expressed their enthusiasm and appreciation to the community. In posts on their Facebook page they wrote, “We’re proud to bring a new VR Family Entertainment experience to Brentwood and be part of this amazing community. Also, thank you to everyone who showed up, supported us, and came out to have fun and celebrate with us. What a day. Thank you, Brentwood! Our opening was a huge success, and we couldn’t have done it without the incredible support from our community.
Owners Prashant Sharma and Ashish Marwa (right) are presented with a Certificate of Recognition by District 1 Councilwoman Jovita Mendoza (second from left) and City staff during the grand opening on Jan. 25, 2026. Photo: VRNexGEN
“A special thank you to the City of Brentwood and our amazing local businesses, neighbors, families, and friends for showing up and welcoming VRNexGEN with open arms. Thank you to everyone who showed up, supported us, and came out to have fun and celebrate with us. We’re officially OPEN and excited to bring next-level VR games, parties, and unforgettable experiences to the city!”
They also thanked District 1 Councilwoman Jovita Mendoza and the City for attending their grand opening.
“We’re proud to bring a new VR Family Entertainment experience to Brentwood and be part of this amazing community,” they added.
Economic Development Manager Ricardo Noguera was asked what the City’s role was in attracting the unique business to town and if they received any financial incentives such as a grant.
“I have been working with this company from the very beginning,” he said. “I assisted them in finding their location and assisted in the permit process. No financial incentives were offered other than my time, which I often share with other business prospects and expanding businesses in Brentwood.”
“This is a unique business, none similar in the Brentwood area and our youth are seeking recreational outlets,” Noguera added.
VRNexGen is located 2510 Sand Creek Road near Home Goods and behind the Ross. For additional details, including operating hours and information to book your game or party, today, visit https://vrnexgen.com/ or call (925) 529-9988.
Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.
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