Prepare to pack your VR headset because this holiday season has some fantastic games to impress both seasoned players and those new to virtual reality.
Even though consumer VR headsets have been available for nearly ten years, there are still many who haven’t had the opportunity to explore VR, or perhaps their only experience wasn’t as thrilling as it could be due to a lack of exposure to the remarkable game libraries available today. When introducing VR to a diverse and youthful audience, it’s wise to avoid games that are heavy on narrative or require extensive explanations. Above all, make sure to project the VR display onto a monitor or TV so everyone can watch the action unfold!
Walkabout Mini Golf
Dive into Walkabout Mini Golf, where minimal explanation is needed. Take a virtual journey with putt-putt through intricately designed mini-golf courses, from Venetian-themed holes to charming collaborations with creators like Wallace and Gromit, MYST, and Meow Wolf. It’s accessible fun; the putters adjust to everyone’s height, so you’re all set for a round of golf with kids, teens, and adults alike. Plus, thanks to crossplay with the mobile ‘Pocket Edition,’ local multiplayer options just got easier.
Available on: Quest, PSVR 2, Pico, SteamVR
OhShape
Inspired by Japan’s TV sensation ‘Hole in the Wall,’ OhShape is a rhythm-based VR game that’s all about full-body movement. Dance, punch, and weave your way through walls, following the beat. It’s straightforward to start up and guarantees plenty of laughs as everyone tries to slip through the most challenging shapes.
Available on: Quest, SteamVR
Beat Saber
Beat Saber is a perennial favorite during the holiday season for its addictive nature and intuitive gameplay. This rhythm-based spectacle lets players slash through blocks, offering a fantastic entry point for VR novices while presenting a challenge for even the most skilled players. Keep play sessions short, around 5-15 minutes, allowing time for retries and song selections.
Available on: Quest, PSVR 2, SteamVR
Pistol Whip
Comparable in its addictive quality to Beat Saber, Pistol Whip swaps block-slashing for stylized shooting, reminiscent of a John Wick movie. Its visual style aims to minimize concerns about on-screen violence, making it appealing to older kids, teens, and adults without raising eyebrows from onlooking parents.
Available on: Quest, PSVR 2, SteamVR
Tentacular
Tentacular stands out for its whimsical approach, letting you become a gigantic, yet amiable tentacled creature. You’re on a mission to discover your purpose through puzzles, with the occasional option to smash your way through challenges. While it might not be your first choice for a party game, it’s excellent for smaller groups and puzzles fans.
Available on: Quest, PSVR 2, SteamVR
Blaston
In Blaston, gear up for a room-scale, high-adrenaline dueling experience. Challenge a friend head-to-head or take on AI opponents in exciting matches. This free-to-play arena allows for easy learning, ensuring everyone wants a shot at dueling glory.
Available on: Quest, Pico, SteamVR
Puzzling Places
Think of Puzzling Places as the ultimate jigsaw puzzle experience—in 3D! It’s as calming and satisfying as its 2D counterparts, enhanced by realistic scale models of stunning locations. Perfect for those who prefer a more stationary experience, it’s sure to impress, especially with its mixed reality mode on Quest.
Available on: Quest, PSVR 2
Superhot VR
Superhot VR might be an older game, but it’s certainly a classic. With its ingenious time mechanics—where time moves only as you do—it creates a thrill in planning and executing your moves against opponents. It’s a strategic yet accessible choice that shouldn’t bewilder older observers.
Available on: Quest, PSVR 1, SteamVR
Wooorld
Similar to Google Earth but for Quest, Wooorld offers an exploration experience, letting you navigate 360-degree photo spheres or gaze upon 3D cities. This VR journey is perfect for sparking nostalgic conversations as users visit past homes or favorite locales.
Available on: Quest
Racket NX
Racket NX is your go-to VR activity for some post-holiday physical exercise. Engage in this futuristic sports game where you hit balls at a reactive dome to collect points. It’s suitable for all ages, and with two headsets, you can compete for the top score directly.
Available on: Quest, SteamVR
Angry Birds VR: Isle of Pigs
Imagine Angry Birds back in action but in a VR setting! With its intuitive setup, it’s the perfect game to pass around, letting everyone try their hand at demolishing the iconic green pigs with precision.
Available on: Quest, PSVR 2, SteamVR
I Expect You to Die Trilogy
These games offer exciting escape rooms filled with peril and puzzling experiences, ensuring entertaining fails and triumphs. It’s particularly engaging for younger audiences, allowing them to collaborate and take turns solving intricate missions.
Available on: Quest, SteamVR
Vader Immortal – Episode 1
This game is a dream come true for Star Wars aficionados. It immerses fans in the vast galaxy, offering a solitary yet enthralling experience that’s perfect for exploring the power of the Force. Just know it’s best appreciated by small groups willing to sit back and enjoy the narrative.
Available on: Quest
Space Pirate Trainer
A straightforward wave shooter, Space Pirate Trainer remains captivating and accessible. Its simplicity makes it a perfect introductory game, requiring minimal setup and explanation.
Available on: Quest, SteamVR
Bigscreen Beta
While not a game per se, Bigscreen Beta transforms your VR headset into a personal theater. Ideal for those new to gaming, it allows you to watch content on a massive virtual screen, whether enjoying a film or browsing live TV channels.
Available on: Quest, SteamVR
Extra Recommendations:
- Demeo: Be prepared for an in-depth tabletop role-playing session that can include cross-platform play.
- Gran Turismo 7 (PSVR 2): Bring a steering wheel for an immersive afternoon of racing across famous speedways.
- Quest Intro Apps: Great for teaching VR basics, though not as awe-inspiring in group settings.
- Half-Life: Alyx (PC VR): An exceptional showpiece, challenging to set up, but visually stunning.
- Moss Series: For quieter times, these platformers shine with intricate storytelling and engaging gameplay.
These VR experiences offer something for everyone, making them perfect for sharing with family and friends during the holiday season.
