Introducing Virgin Media Gamepad is a new gaming space brought to you by Virgin Media O2. This innovative venue, situated within The O2, the world’s most popular live entertainment, leisure, and retail destination, invites gamers to indulge in limitless play and expand their knowledge, all free of charge.

At Virgin Media Gamepad, both Virgin Media O2 customers and the general public can immerse themselves in a seamless gaming experience powered by Virgin Media’s lightning-fast gigabit broadband. The space is equipped with cutting-edge technology, including 16 of the latest gaming consoles and exclusive areas for live streaming and local multiplayer gaming with friends.

Designed with gamers in mind, Gamepad has been meticulously crafted in collaboration with the renowned technology experts at Digital Foundry, ensuring it stands as the most advanced gaming facility in the UK. Featuring top-of-the-line equipment such as Elgato Facecams, Elgato Key Lights, Ultra Wide curved desktop monitors, Xbox Series X consoles, and wireless controllers, Gamepad offers an unparalleled gaming environment. It combines Virgin Media’s superior fixed connectivity with O2’s exceptional mobile experience, further strengthening the presence of the Virgin Media brand at The O2 following the merger of the two companies in June 2021.

Continuing Virgin Media’s commitment to supporting gamers, Gamepad represents its latest venture in the gaming industry. Over the years, they have provided customers with exclusive opportunities to play blockbuster titles like Destiny 2 before their official release and sponsored the annual EGX gaming expo. With approximately 40% of the global population gaming online and 88% of young adults aged 16-24 playing video games, Virgin Media remains dedicated to offering exclusive opportunities. They will partner with publishers and AAA games to provide unforgettable experiences and unique benefits to passionate gamers.

Virgin Media O2 has created Gamepad with the ambition of making gaming more inclusive and accessible to all. The space is fully step-free and wheelchair-friendly throughout, and the lighting can be adjusted to accommodate various sensory needs. It will continue to be developed and enhanced to ensure an inclusive and enjoyable experience for everyone. Gamepad also strives to support the next generation of gaming talent by providing them with access to professional-level facilities that can help elevate their gaming skills to new heights.

In the coming months, Virgin Media will collaborate with leading content creators such as Outside Xbox, who are resident gamers at Gamepad, to deliver tailored sessions for gamers seeking to improve their skills and expand their knowledge of streaming and gaming. Outside Xbox gamers will also stream twice a month from a dedicated streaming lounge within Gamepad called “The Stage.”

Gamepad consists of three distinct areas: The Playground, The Cave, and The Stage, each serving a unique purpose to cater to gamers’ diverse needs. The Playground features 16 gaming pods equipped with Xbox Series X consoles, all preloaded with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, granting players free access to hundreds of games across various AAA franchises.

The Cave offers an exclusive VIP gaming lounge for Virgin Media broadband and O2 customers to enjoy squad play with up to three friends. Customers can book The Cave through the Priority app starting from Sunday 2nd July.

The Stage is a state-of-the-art streaming studio furnished with industry-leading technology. It will host the best gaming talent who, in partnership with Outside Xbox, will live stream from the dedicated space once a month, with live broadcasts available on their YouTube channel.

Gareth Griffiths, Director of Partnerships & Sponsorship at Virgin Media O2, expressed enthusiasm about the evolving gaming landscape, with more people coming together to play socially and build communities online. The O2, as the world’s premier entertainment venue, offers the perfect setting for the ultimate gaming experience. Griffiths emphasized the company’s commitment to placing play, people, and purpose at the heart of their gaming initiatives. The dedicated space at Gamepad aims to remove barriers for gamers, whether they are financial, physical, or social, providing them with access to the latest gaming consoles and hundreds of games, all powered by Virgin Media’s gigabit broadband.

Virgin Media broadband and O2 customers visiting Gamepad at The O2 will enjoy additional perks to enhance their gameplay experience. These perks include exclusive first-play opportunities, access codes, in-game treats, and unique experiences, all available exclusively through Priority, the company’s customer rewards program.

Gamepad is an exciting addition to the diverse range of entertainment offerings at The O2. In addition to its renowned arena, visitors can enjoy interactive bars like TOCA Social and BOOM BATTLE BAR, London’s largest cinema at Cineworld, and the immersive dining experience Mamma Mia! The Party, over 30 bars and restaurants, and much more.

Virgin Media Gamepad is open every day of the week from 12 pm to 8 pm. The Playground can be accessed by everyone for a minimum of 20 minutes at a time. Priority members have the option to prebook or, subject to availability, turn up for a 60-minute slot in The Cave.