Storm Virtual Energy Blackout Bowling Ball

The Virtual Energy Blackout (VEBO) is the newest asymmetric pearl in SPI's lineup. I drilled my VEBO 5x4x3.5 to keep the ball clean through the heads and mid part of the lane and create a strong but rounded shape off the back. When Storm paired the proven Shapelock HD Core with the REX Pearl coverstock, they managed to bring back that incredibly strong ball motion that we saw out of some of the equipment in the late 2000s and early 2010s. The VEBO is the ball you are looking for if you need a long and strong shape in your bag!

My initial impression of the virtual energy blackout is that this ball is so much fun to throw! I drilled mine 70 x 5 1/4 x 35. Fresh off the press I took it out on a 41 foot 28 mL house shot. With my iPhone video recording I threw it for 258. The video can be found here… https://youtu.be/FxJ6MnNAEu8?feature=shared. Go see it yourself. A solid black cover says it all. Everyone knows solid black balls typically step up to the plate performance wise and this one is no exception. Performance wise, it glided easily down the lane, and when it made its move, it was a strong continuous arc through the pin deck. All I can say is, if you don’t have this ball in your bag, you are truly missing out on something special.

I drilled up my VIRTUAL ENERGY BLACKOUT with a 4 x 2 x 3.5 layout. This put the pin in my ring finger. This is a layout I prefer when I need to blend patterns that have became wet/dry and my bigger balls are standing up too soon and shiny options are too long off the pattern. In essence, this is my version of a pin under layout with a weight hole down. I slightly have glazed the cover with a 3000 CTD pad which is almost like 2000 SiaAir pads. I have put this up against my EXOTIC GEM, CLONE, & ZEN GOLD LABEL which are a couple of my shinier choices for most medium/slightly wetter conditions. The BLACKOUT did exactly what I needed in that it can hug the oil line much easier than the EXOTIC GEM and CLONE. My GOLD LABEL was the same length thru the fronts but a slower move in the back compared to the VE BLACKOUT and was weaker hitting. It could also blow thru the backend and miss the headpin right completely. On slightly slicker patterns, the CLONE and EXOTIC GEM were slightly better looks. I did get the impression that I could hit the VIRTUAL ENERGY BLACKOUT with a 1000 pad and get a much earlier read to put it on par with those quicker reading shiny balls. One thing with this layout was I had to keep my speed up or the ball would get forward too quickly and stop. Drill this one up if you want something to have when you encounter your first transition from slightly slicker to more medium slick. Also don't be afraid to hit it with surface to get it to read quicker if you are leaving flat corner pins.

The Blackout has a low RG value of 2.48 a medium differential of 0.052 and a high intermediate differential of 0.020. Storm combined the ever so popular Shape Lock HD Core with the Reactor Extreme (REX) Coverstock. The REX coverstock is the combination of the NEX coverstock that we have seen in a numerous amount of releases such as the Storm Super Nova and Proton Phyisics and the R2S coverstock that we have seen on the Astro Physics and Hyroad Pearl. As per the Shape Lock HD core, this core we have seen in the Virtual Gravity line which creates a fast revving reaction that helps bowlers of all types looking for a stronger change of direction on the backend. The high density core lowers the RG and raises the differential which creates more flare potential. I did a ball comparison to the Storm Dark Code and the 900 Global Zen Gold Label at 42 ft house shot, 25 ml of oil. The layout chosen 55 x 5 x 35. 3000 Grit used for review. In comparison to the Storm Dark Code, the Dark Code starts up a tad quicker because its pin down but the Blackout is sharper on the backend due to having a stronger weight block and being pin up. In addition, the Dark Code has a RG of 2.50 with a differential of 0.058 verses the Blackout having a RG of 2.48 and differential of 0.052 which in theory is not much of a disparity per the RG’s but the differential which is your backend motion is a decent amount. In comparison to the 900 Global Zen Gold Label, The Blackout goes longer and is pinch sharper due the core being asymmetric, but the ZGL starts up quicker and has better traction in the oil. These two balls can be a one two punch in the bag on the transition/burn on a sport pattern or for game 2 and 3 of league. As per the surface adjustments, the Blackout’s box surface is Reacta Gloss which is 500>2,000>4000, reacta gloss which will go really long but will be great on the medium to dry conditions. For me, I put on a 3000 over the reacta Gloss to give the ball a matte finish which rounds off the ball on the backend so its not as sharp off the spot and blends out the pattern. In the bag, will be the Eternity Pi, Eternity, Xponent, Zen Gold Label and Storm Virtual Gravity Blackout Please pick up a Storm Virtual Energy Blackout at a Striking Results Proshop near you and please like and subscribe to my page Beyond the Arrows Ball reviews. Use my coupon code Patrick300 on your first purchase of a Bowlifi jersey and get $5.00 off or $5.00 off a $50.00 or more purchase.

The Virtual Energy Blackout brings back the proven Shape-Lock HD Core with a new sharp, elegant, glossy look! I was able to move left as the lanes broke down and the Blackout had no trouble making the corner. After the big solid asymmetric balls start to burn up, the Blackout will be an excellent step down without sacrificing down lane strength. Get yours at your local pro shop today.

About Me 900 Global Staff Left Handed: High Rev High Speed Player Pap: - 47/8 +1 Rev Rate: +-500 Speed 17-18mph Layout: 5 X 3 ½ X 2 Ball Video: https://youtu.be/ALE_1nqX45A The Storm Virtual Energy Blackout is long and strong. Even though this is long and has a strong backend the Blackout is very predictable and controllable. The backend is not a check mark but more rounded of the spot and then turns into a strong rollie finish. This is something I haven't had, and it seems to help throw the pins around quite a bit. I believe that the Blackout is a ball that you can get to the outside with to start the night with and migrate to the middle or jump into the middle without sacrificing ball motion or carry. I also think with dryer patterns this may be a little too much and will lose its predictability and control. This Virtual Energy Blackout is something different and should be in most people’s bags if not everyone's. Go talk to your local pro shop for more details. Joel Donner 900 Global Staff Member Cedar Rapids, IA #StormNation #StrikingWorldwide #RGSquad #Iambowling #teamiambowling #bowlingisfun

I was so excited when Storm announced this ball. I never got the chance to throw a Virtual Energy but I did really like the Dark Code which has the same ReX Coverstock. I decided to drill this ball 4x3.5x1 since I throw 14lbs and balls tend to get down lane easier than the 15lb counterparts for me. I wasn't disappointed at all. With the ReX Coverstock the Virtual Energy Blackout really gives me a sharp backend angle once the lanes open up to help carry the corners out. On a typical league night I start with a Storm Summit and once the front of the lane fries out, I switch to the Blackout. I would not recommend this ball for heavy long oil patterns until the heads burn out or if you are bowling on a high friction surface. My normal house shot is 44ft on a brand new synthetic surface. This is another homerun from Storm Bowling.

I never got to throw the original Virtual Energy but I have been a big fan of the Shape Lock Hd Core so I was pretty excited when Storm announced the release of the Virtual Energy Blackout. I decided to go with a 4x3.5x1 layout since I throw 14lbs and I was concerned that with the glossy ReX Pearl cover would get the ball down the lane too far. I have been very happy with what I have seen so far. I wouldn't recommend this ball on heavy fresh patterns but once the front of the lane starts to dry out it really shines. On a typical league night, I bowl on a fresh 44ft house pattern. I will start with a Storm Summit, then once the lanes start to open up, I can switch to the Virtual Energy Blackout to get the ball to go more right to left. The Vebo is very sharp on the backend so I can get the corners to carry out even with 14lbs. If your looking for a ball to use when the front of the lane is fried out this is another homerun by Storm Bowling.

Storm Virtual Energy Blackout Cover: ReX™ Pearl Reacta Gloss Reactive Weight Block: Shape-Lock™ HD Core (Asymmetrical) Color: Blackout Review: If you are a fan of the Dark Code and the Virtual series look no further than Virtual Energy Blackout which combines the best of both worlds. The shape-lock core wrapped with the ReX Pearl cover stock is something that will create a new reaction that people are looking for. This ball is clean through the fronts before it makes a backend motion like no other. The clean black color of this ball gives you an old school feel with new school technology. This ball really is great for when the lanes begin to change and that strong asymmetric solid has become just to much for the lanes. The Virtual Energy Blackout continues to add to the very well respected line that is the Virtual Line. Will Tefft Storm Staff Member will@parklanes.net www.strombowling.com #Stromnation

The VEBO is a very good downlane snappy ball. Its usually is the first ball out of my bag. It does well when there's friction downlane. As i progress through the night and i have to move inside, i start to lose my look a little bit with this ball. However, if i add speed to it and move a few boards that seems to do the trick as well. All in all it is as adverstised and a wonderful ball for my game.

The Virtual Energy Blackout builds on an already concrete foundation created by the Shape-Lock HD Core. But now, and sleeker than ever, the Blackout has taken the reigns with a tour-inspired 1-tone design. The shape you didn’t know you needed until it was gone is back! Per SPI MY SPECS: PAP: 4 7/8 R 7/8 UP REV: 350 MPH: 15 @PINS LAYOUT: 4 5/8 X 3 5/8 X 1 1/2 VLS Test Pattern: 42' THS The Storm Virtual Energy Blackout bowling ball exudes an elegant aura that's impossible to ignore. With its sharp design and glossy finish, it's a true masterpiece in the world of bowling. This ball not only looks stunning but also performs with precision and finesse. Its elegant appearance is matched by its equally impressive on-lane performance, offering bowlers a blend of control and power that's truly remarkable. The sharp, cutting-edge technology packed into this ball ensures that it reacts precisely to your every move, allowing for pinpoint accuracy on the lane. When it comes to style and substance, the Storm Virtual Energy Blackout is the epitome of excellence, making it a must-have for discerning bowlers seeking both beauty and performance in their game. A blast from the past! Step forward Marty McFly. The popular Virtual Energy returns with modern cover like a 70's muscle car with bigger wheels. THE VIRTUAL ENERGY BLACKOUT. Excited about the new cover/core combo, as I have had success with the Dark Code and Infinite Physix. Same layout used but the VE BO is smoother and sharper in OOB surface.. I changed mine to 4000 Abralon to smooth out and control the sharpness. On the THS, playable in the track is very predictable and not speed sensitive. When I opened my angles in the fronts, I did not see or lose carry. As always, hand position changes presented a slightly different shape down lane for me. I recommend this ball for the league bowlers who like the glossy look and sharp reaction. Visit a local SPI VIP Proshop today. #Stormnation

Storm Virtual Energy Blackout (VEBO) Layout: 4.5 x 5 x 2 Storm Pin Buffer Layout Rev Rate: 325 rpm, 7 degree of axis tilt, 40 degree of axis rotation Testing information: 41 foot THS (medium to light volume) Bowling Center: Fulton Bowling Center Kegel Machine – Brunswick Anvilane The Storm Virtual Energy Blackout utilizes the REX pearl coverstock and HD (high density) weight block. We tested the VEBO alongside the Storm Dark Code on a house shot. The VEBO was very similar in shape to the Dark Code. Both balls are very long for me then want to turn left at the back end. I will say the VEBO is a touch stronger overall than the Dark Code, which could have been from layout differences. I feel the VEBO will be condition specific for me. I will use it late in blocks once we are forced left. The ball is very clean at the front of the lane. The VEBO gives me that old school Storm vibe of easy length and tons of strength on the back end. Storm as been doing it the best for many years! Visit your local Storm VIP Pro Shop! #Stormnation #SquadRG

Storm Virtual Energy Blackout ball review Vls 5 1/4 x 4 x 2 1/2 This ball was one I was excited to get my hands on. Starting with the Shape Lock HD core, I expected it to be a shape I would like. With the Rex Pearl reactive cover and Reacta gloss finish, it's very clean through the front of the lane but sharp off the spot. In the houses with too much friction to start with a solid, this ball has been seriously good. Gives me enough angle to carry all night. Even on some more tricky patterns, I could keep my angles in front of me until the lanes opened up then take advantage of the great shape. It's cleaner and sharper off the spot than my Exotic gem, giving more angular shape. This is a reaction anyone will want to have in their bag. Dave Adams Storm staff

The Virtual Energy Blackout is a new asymmetric ball in Storm’s Premiere line. It features the popular and high use ReX Pearl coverstock, which is a blend of their ultra strong NeX formula and their flagship clean, responsive, and controllable R2S formula. The core is the famed Shape Lock HD core from the previous Virtual and Gravity line releases, which comes in at a 2.48 RG, a .052 differential, and a .020 intermediate differential. The Blackout reminds me instantly of the Dark Code, just longer and sharper. Same cover, even same color, the core in the Blackout is just slightly weaker. I’ve used the Blackout on several different conditions with a couple different surfaces. The factory gloss is too inconsistent and sensitive for me, so I resurfaced it down to 1000 on a resurfacing machine, then finished it lightly with Storm’s Step 2 compound. The result was a surprisingly long and quick, round, continuous finish on the backend. I’ve mentioned before that this core creates a surprisingly long and sharp motion for how strong it is on paper. The closest comparison for me is that it feels like an asymmetric Zen Gold Label. Very clean and easy up front, almost worryingly so, before it covers more ground on the backend than 95% of the balls I’ve ever thrown. It’s also remarkably controllable and consistent for how clean and sharp it is. The stronger cover formula maintains a subtle amount of traction and stability through the oil, and the rounder and more continuous shape makes the pocket bigger as well. It’s incredibly versatile from left to right, it gives lower rev bowlers punch down lane they don’t usually have without forcing them deeper on the lane, and it gives higher rev bowlers length and control they don’t usually see out of stronger and more responsive balls like this. With shine it can reach down to be at home on regular league conditions, but with a little surface it can hold its own on heavier conditions, and is a great step up from something like an Absolute for when you want a similar shape, but need more strength or traction.

The new release in the Storm signature line is the Virtual Energy Blackout (VEBO). I also agree with a lot of staffers, most if not all black bowling balls are very good! The VEBO is no different, it has been a huge hit for Storm. The VEBO features the Shape-lock HD core with the new REX Pearl coverstock. I drilled mine with 4 inch pin up. (4 x 5 x 2 ). I did change the surface to Storm Step 2. Honestly not a big fan of the Reacta Gloss. I used the VEBO on 42ft house shot and on a couple Sport patterns. The VEBO is very clean and angular downlane. I have drilled a few at the shop for a low rev down and in guy and he absolutely loves it, it gives him the backend from the VEBO which he needs to help to get the ten out. For the 2 handers it gives them a large amount of miss room! Very hard for them to throw it through the breakpoint. Which is a good feeling knowing they can still throw it hard and still get it back. To compare it to my dark code with same drilling, the VEBO is cleaner and much sharper on the back and higher response to friction. Where the Dark Code is more rounded. If your wanting a stand left and throw right and strike a lot the VEBO is your ball! Going to be a huge seller for Storm! Brian Watson Storm Pro Shop Emerson Lanes Brunswick Pro Anvilane PAP - 3 7/8 up 1 1/4 RPM - 400 TILT - 17 MPH - 16-17

Orientation: Right Handed Rev Rate: 400 RPM Speed: 16-17 MPH PAP: 4 ½ over and ½ up Location: Enterprise Park Lanes, Springfield MO Pattern: High Volume THS VLS Layout: Layout 1: 5 x 4 x 2 ½ (pin above bridge) Layout 2: 4 ½ x 4 x 4 1/8 (pin below bridge) The VEBO is a new Rex Pearl asym. But unlike the Dark Code and Infinite, the Blackout is SUPER CLEAN and jerky. It gives me more updated Code Black vibes except it handles oil a touch better. I’ve had the first versions of Rex Pearl a little too responsive to friction and allergic to oil but this blend of Rex Pearl is perfect! The VEBO is going to be in my bag a long time! I love using this ball on a super cliff cause I can gear my miss to tug and it has enough teeth to handle the oil and still roll and tip.

The Virtual Energy Blackout is a sharp, elegant new pearl asym that features the ReX cover with the Shape Lock HD core. This ball provides a clean motion through the front part of the lane as well as a dependable reaction as it exits the pattern. I find this ball extremely useful for when the pattern stretches out due to urethane usage and I need a ball that can clear the fronts but still chew through the oil down lane. I put a 5x4x3 layout on the Virtual Energy Blackout and it is exactly what I was looking for. For me, this ball is a nice step down when the Reality starts to become too early.

The newest release to the Storm line the Virtual Energy Blackout. Shape Lock HD Core that was in the old Virtual Gravity and Virtual Energy paired with the REX coverstock. I am a big fan of the REX cover from the Infinite and the Fate. When I received word that this ball was coming out I was beyond excited! Layout 45x5x35. I feel like we have not had a ball do what this ball does for a while. With the REX cover this time around I feel that this ball is cleaner down lane and really pops off the back end. REX has always been clean and smooth but there is a difference here with the Blackout. You can tell it has that get up and go of the Virtual Gravity. I have only had this ball for a little bit and it is hard to take out of my hands. This time around I left the reacta gloss on for now. I was impressed this ball gave me length, pop, and control. Not to mention power at the pins. This ball I feel is always hunting the 8 pin when it turns for home. For reaction shape I would say it is smooth yet “whippy”. Comparing it to other balls in the line I would say it is not as clean as an Absolute but similar for house shots. Sport shots between the Black out and the Absolute, the black out is going to read it earlier and be the smoother option(imo.). I highly recommend this one for all bowlers to try you do not want to miss out on this one!

The virtual energy blackout was the shape I sought on house conditions. It is extremely clean through the fronts with an aggressive backend motion. Next, it’s an all-black bowling ball… I am not for sure about the science behind it, but black balls simply strike more! I also have used this ball when I need to get left on tougher conditions when the fronts are hooking too early. I will be using this ball quite a lot, and think you should give it a chance!

The Virtual Energy Blackout is a throw back to the original Virtual Energy. They kept the Shape-Lock HD Core but paired it with the successful REX Pearl Cover that you see in the Dark Code. This ball won’t be everyone’s go to game one ball but during the transition phase, this thing is a monster. It helps control your backend motion and doesn’t limit you to going left. This ball will be very popular and you should get one!

Storm Virtual Energy Blackout Coverstock: ReX Pearl Reactive Core: Shape-Lock HD Factory Finish: Reacta Gloss Layout: 4.5 x 4 x 1 The Virtual Energy name and Shape-Lock HD Core are back with the Blackout. The Blackout has the ReX Pearl Reactive cover found on the discontinued Infinite Physix. The Infinite was much more round and was really good on medium length patterns for me. I can’t imagine throwing this Blackout on medium patterns as it revs up and reads the back part of the pattern very well. The Blackout is easily 5-7 more than my favorite shiny symmetrical IQ Tour Ruby with a similar layout. The Blackout is a great option for those bowlers needing a bit more hook, as well as bowlers that love to open the lane up. Chris Freeland Storm Amateur Staff Average Rev Rate 400 Average Speed 18 mph PAP: 4 1/8 over 3/4 up

Storm Virtual Energy Blackout Cover: ReX™ Pearl Reacta Gloss Reactive Weight Block: Shape-Lock™ HD Core (Asymmetrical) Color: Blackout Review: The long awaited return of the Shape-Lock HD Core wrapped in the popular ReX cover (blackout version) has arrived! This ball has some serious shelf appeal with the old school all black look and really does smell delicious. We drilled this ball with our normal layout: tweener, 350-375 revs, 16.5mph, layout of choice is 4x4x2 (pin is above bridge). This ball is the ultimate move infinite left, throw right, watch it come back and strike kind of movement. Compared to the Dark Code this ball is cleaner through the fronts and more responsive on the backend. For this reason we see this ball being a bit more versatile for the ability to play further left longer if needed without leaving those flat 10s. Tournament bowlers will like this Pearl cover deep in sets and anyone who just likes to see the ball move will appreciate this piece. Another banger asym pearl from Storm! Kyle, Joel, & Dean Johnson Storm Pro Shop Staffers joel@parklanes.net kyle@parklanes.net dean@frontierfuncenter.net www.stormbowling.com #StormNation

I bought this ball without much expectation and especially in connection with the general madness of seeing this product again on the lanes. At the beginning, I was really not exited about the ball reaction that I'm saw. With the oob surface, for me it was really not controllable and I really disliked. After change the surface with a handled 1000 pad, the reaction completely changed for a great strong smooth react. I played a full 5 games 44 feet pattern tournament just with opened my angle more and more and the ball continued to give me a good rounded mid-lane reaction and a big hit at the enter's triangle. So the virtual energy passed from a ball that I'm thinked that I would totaly not used to a ball that follow me on my bag tournament. So, surface changes make sometimes all difference according to our style. #stormnation

The Storm Virtual Energy Blackout is a blast from the past! The layout is 4 x 4 x 1.5 puts the pin above my ring finger and high up about 1.5 above the finger so with that it gives more length with more angle on the back end. With the classic HD weightblock and a modern day coverstock it reminds me a lot of the original virtual gravity. I went back and looked at a old video I posted on YouTube of the OG Virtual Energy and ball motion wise it is very close to each other. The VE Blackout is a great league ball to start on the fresh on a typically house shot. With me being left handed I can almost use it all 3 games depending on the lanes and if there are any other lefties. Typical league night I am standing 24-25, getting it to 2nd arrow and 7-8 at breakpoint. Once the lanes start to change and still wanna stay in the VE Blackout then would move 4 boards right getting it to 13-14 board at the arrows and 10-11 at the breakpoint to keep it tight. If I get it outside 7-8 then it will hit the dry and nose dive which leads to anything is possible lol. Once I see that within 2 shots at that point I will make a ball change. Overall this is an awesome ball for league or tournaments for some fresh patterns and transition. #Stormnation Garrett Richardson Storm Amateur Staff IG: grich_bowling

The Storm Virtual Energy Blackout is Storms newest premier line pearl asym. The VEBO combines one of my all time favorite covers, REX pearl, with one of the best cores ever produced. I was a huge fan of the Dark Code from a few years back and ever since that ball was discontinued, I’ve been missing that shape from my bag. The VEBO is the perfect replacement piece and has been my go-to #2 ball for the last couple of months. Review Video: https://youtu.be/edV9Kf_PyQ0?si=m3KmzCb_ui9R-Eb6 (https://youtu.be/edV9Kf_PyQ0?si=m3KmzCb_ui9R-Eb6)