Exploring the High-Octane World of Hardcore VR Ravers: 60-Hour Dance Marathons, Virtual Intimacy, and Ketamine Adventures

Last August, a Dublin IT worker named O’Rourke took part in an extraordinary virtual adventure. For nearly 12 nights, he combined cannabis edibles, cocaine, ketamine, and alcohol while immersing himself in VRChat, a virtual reality platform. He claims he partied for up to 60 hours without stepping outside his apartment. O’Rourke, who prefers to keep his full name private, told WIRED, “If you’re not able to self-moderate… it’s endless.”

The shift to online parties has been dramatic. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, VRChat rarely had more than 20,000 users at once. Yet on New Year’s Day this year, over 130,000 users logged in, according to a VR culture blog. Today’s virtual space acts as a refuge for many who feel isolated in the real world. Users can explore various party environments in their virtual avatars, making it a unique escape.

Traditional clubs in the US and UK are rapidly closing down due to rising costs and strict regulations. In contrast, VR offers an unregulated, limitless space for nightlife. Organizers now host countless virtual parties across the globe. Unlike physical venues, VR does not charge cover fees, although high-quality setups can be pricey. While some equipment can exceed $5,000, simpler options are available for as little as $350.

WIRED learned from participants that VR can create a more welcoming environment, particularly for marginalized groups. One user noted, “In VR, I feel safer.” However, this shift has also brought about unregulated underground scenes, including offerings that mimic drug experiences.

O’Rourke co-runs a virtual party called Euro-Corp, designed to mimic traditional club atmospheres. He feels passionately about the current moment in VR history, believing it to be pivotal. “When people look back in 10 or 20 years, they’ll say now was its peak,” he said.

Still, some participants express concerns. Heelix, a 61-year-old DJ from Berlin, reflects on the dangers of excess. “I think it’s a little bit dangerous,” he admits, highlighting how some users lose track of their limits. Another party promoter echoed this concern, saying, “Because of the headset, you don’t realize how drunk you are till you take it off.”

In this brave new world of virtual raves, the line between reality and escapism blurs. Users must navigate their limits while embracing this innovative form of socialization.

For further insights on the impact of VR on nightlife, read reports from [The New York Times](https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/08/realestate/brooklyn-closures-nightlife.html) and [The Times](https://www.thetimes.com/uk/article/why-london-nightlife-gone-pete-tong-6tdxf6rz9).