Virtual Reality Games and Tech Reviews
As gamers, the worlds we’ve imagined have become increasingly sharp and sensory. 4K, razor-sharp audio and slick game design have upgraded digital environments. With VR, we can now step inside. What once felt like a sci-fi dream is a reality. Virtual reality gaming is more accessible and integrated than ever. Here’s an overview of some of the best virtual reality games and tech on the market right now.
Best VR Games 2020
Here’s what is coming in as can’t-miss for new players or editions in VR gaming.
Half-Life: Alyx
Valve’s first VR game has gotten fresh life after almost a decade of loyal fans (bug aging graphics). It’s a winner. Zombies, scientific puzzles, terror and crazy twists: this is a game that keeps surprising. Get into it for free when you buy the Valve Index and HTC Vive Cosmos Elite.
Vader Immortal
If you want drama, you got it. This game is often described as cinematic. You don’t even have to love Star Wars to enjoy the journey of Darth Vader. Use VR to literally leap into fortresses, fight enemies, make allies and be the center character in a story for galactic salvation.
No Man’s Sky
Dive into a dystopian universe with mist, crazy light and larger-than-life robots. And they’ll really seem that way, because, VR. No Man’s Sky was a hugely anticipated game from 2019 and is essentially an immersive experience in the epic narratives everyone already loved from the series. Hello Games is proving that they’re serious about making VR a core part of their offerings and No Man’s Sky doesn’t disappoint.
Defector
Twisted Pixel launched this spy action-shooter game, which gives players a ton of freedom to explore the VR world. Reminiscent of Mission Impossible and other classic spy experiences, Defector is tense, dark, complex and so engaging you may forget you’re playing.
Farpoint
Farpoint was designed to show off the PS4 VR system. You can use the PS VR Aim, which was made to work in first-person shooter games like this. The mechanics are spot on and the game feels real. You’ll get into alien environments, throw down with enemies and check in with research as you seek survival in this apocalyptic world.
Superhot VR
Superhot VR has been available since 2017 but it’s getting better and better. One part mayhem and another part strategy, this game looks uber modern with its sleek white environment and deeply colorful, monochromatic characters. Get into the chaos and get complete control with avatars who only move when you do.
Creed Rise to Glory
Beat it out in the ring and become Adonis Creed with this first-person boxing game. Phantom Melee Technology is the novel component of this game. You can train, fight in the ring and win matches as Creed. It’s hardly a one-hit, with plenty of additional areas of the game to explore and experience.
Minecraft VR
This is an honorable mention, since Minecraft is such a mainstay for pop culture gamers. Explore, create and survive in a totally low-poly, giant pixelated world. You can play in first-person or 3rd-person and get VR turning and VR controls. Minecraft VR works in multiplayer mode, too, so it’s a friendly play.
Best VR Headset 2020
The games are awesome but without the right gear you’ll miss all the fun. Here are the best VR headsets for 2020 so far.
Virtual Reality Oculus Quest
Oculus quest has the first all-in-one headset for gaming. Sleek, matte black with built-in sensors mean that your body movements are tracked with absolute precision. Other features include:
- Easy setup and integration
- Room-scale tracking
- Realistic precision
- Intuitive use
You can get the Oculus Touch Controllers for your arms, giving your hand motions perfect in-game replication. Get Beat Saber, Creed,Journey of the Gods, Dance Central and any of your other favorite VR games as you connect with a PC or VR-compatible gaming device.
Average price: $400-$500
HTC Vive Cosmos
VR is versatile with the HTC Vive Cosmos. The outward-facing plate is a latticed design, giving it a distinct look from similar headsets. It has six cameras that orient and position the player in a world and give optimal views and immersion. Here’s what’s awesome about it:
- Inside-out, accurate tracking
- Wide field of view
- Six degree freedom of movement
- 2880×1700 combined pixel resolution (highest for VIVE yet)
- LCD panels
One of the most desirable elements is that you don’t need a base station. It pairs with PCs and any devices that are VR-ready. The control cuffs are adjustable, with a chunky bottom grip and easy-to-navigate buttons.
Average price: $699-$899
Valve Index
By Steam, the Valve Index has whole VR kits that provide high fidelity VR experiences. The key piece is a headset with integrated headphones. Additional hardware and features include adapters, gun handhelds/skins and integration with SteamVR Home space software. Valve Index is highly customizable, so you can buy a cradle or face gasket that fits your head. The Valve Index controllers are padded and ergonomic. Standout features everyone is loving about this tech are:
- Deep, true-to-life sound (high-quality headphones)
- Easy to learn handheld buttons and directionals
- Adjustability of all units and devices
Average price: $499-$999
Try it Out: Arcadia Virtual Reality 360
On the entire other end of the spectrum is the Arcadia 360 Virtual Reality headset. If you’re just dipping your toe into the world of VR and don’t have a ton of cash, this is a good way to see what all the buzz is about. Priced super low, you can get the Arcadia 360 Virtual Reality headset with built-in headphones. Strap your smartphone into the front and watch VR YouTube videos or try out some downloaded VR games.
Virtual Reality Tech Repair
VR-capable gaming systems and VR headsets are like any other kind of tech: they can break. When they do, not only is your game interrupted, you could be out a lot of money. Protect your investment by having Gadget Genie on call. We’re here to have your back if you start seeing glitches, losing speed or power or having audio/interoperability issues. We have a team of skilled pros who can work to repair and restore your VR gaming equipment. Message us for more info.
