Prepare your VR headset and pack it up, because when visiting family this holiday, there’s a flood of amazing games that are perfect for introducing VR to everyone, from young kids to grandparents.
Although VR headsets have been in consumer hands for nearly ten years, many haven’t yet experienced the joys of modern VR games – or worse, their only exposure was limited to less impressive titles. With the array of fantastic games available today, you’ll want to select those that are light on story and require minimal explanation for first-timers. Display your headset’s output on a TV or monitor so everyone can get in on the action and enjoy the adventure together.
Walkabout Mini Golf
This one’s a breeze to dive into. Imagine golfing on extraordinary mini-golf courses themed around Venice, Italy, and partnerships with the creators of Wallace and Gromit, MYST, and Meow Wolf. It’s designed for everyone; the putters automatically adjust to fit the player’s height, making it easy and fun for all ages. Plus, its crossplay feature with the ‘Pocket Edition’ means even more multiplayer fun.
- Available on: Quest, PSVR 2, Pico, SteamVR
OhShape
Dive into a gameplay experience inspired by Japan’s ‘Hole in the Wall’. OhShape challenges players to dance, punch, and dodge walls in time with the music. It’s a riot of laughter as each participant tries to contort themselves through the increasingly tricky shapes.
- Available on: Quest, SteamVR
Beat Saber
An evergreen favorite in the VR world, Beat Saber is popular for good reasons. It’s an addictive, easy-to-pick-up rhythm game perfect for VR beginners. Despite its simplicity, it offers depth that can engage players of all skill levels and ages. It’s advisable to limit each player’s turn to about 5 to 15 minutes to allow for retries and overcoming challenges.
- Available on: Quest, PSVR 2, SteamVR
Pistol Whip
Just as catchy as Beat Saber, but this time you’re stepping into a fast-paced, stylized shootout reminiscent of John Wick. It’s visually engaging without being overly violent, making it suitable for older children, teens, and adults.
- Available on: Quest, PSVR 2, SteamVR
Tentacular
Step into a whimsical world as a giant tentacled creature on a quest to understand its place. With puzzles to solve and chaos to ensue, it’s better for smaller groups or those who enjoy quirky, puzzle-focused gameplay rather than fast-paced action.
- Available on: Quest, PSVR 2, SteamVR
Blaston
Engage in a futuristic duel with this room-scale game offering a free-to-play option. With a variety of weapons, you’ll dodge and weave in battles. It’s perfect for online matches or a quick, local single-player experience if your gathering sports two headsets.
- Available on: Quest, Pico, SteamVR
Puzzling Places
For those who savor the tranquility of a classic jigsaw puzzle, this 3D VR experience offers beautifully detailed miniatures of global locales. Ideal for quieter, seated play, it’s a treat for anyone who appreciates the meditative pace and realism in VR.
- Available on: Quest, PSVR 2
Superhot VR
Despite its age, Superhot VR remains a captivating classic. Family members can enjoy strategic combat where time moves as they do. The red crystalline adversaries make for a visually rewarding experience as they shatter in slow motion.
- Available on: Quest, PSVR 1, SteamVR
Wooorld
Imagine having Google Earth in VR. Wooorld lets users immerse in 360-degree Street View photospheres or examine vibrant 3D cityscapes. It’s a nostalgic journey for anyone wanting to explore past homes or cities with a new layer of immersion.
- Available on: Quest
Racket NX
This game’s a fantastic choice for burning off some holiday calories. Racket NX has players swatting balls in a futuristic arena, racking up points, and enjoying competitive gameplay. More fun awaits if you have two headsets for a friendly rivalry.
- Available on: Quest, SteamVR
Angry Birds VR: Isle of Pigs
A fan-favorite now in VR! This game is instantly familiar and effortlessly engaging, making it a great pick for a quick, competitive pass around of the headset, as players aim to topple structures with a limited number of shots.
- Available on: Quest, PSVR 2, SteamVR
I Expect You to Die Trilogy
Whether it’s one of, or advancing through the entire trio, these games offer thrilling escape room experiences. Perfect for younger players to take turns in a game filled with amusing fails and clever puzzles.
- Available on: Quest, SteamVR
Vader Immortal – Episode 1
For Star Wars fans in the house, this VR experience is a must. It’s more suitable for solo play, offering a deep dive into the Star Wars universe for a solid hour, especially if there are Let’s Players among you who enjoy watching everyone’s reactions.
- Available on: Quest
Space Pirate Trainer
Though simpler than more recent releases, this wave shooter is still a top pick for its accessibility and visual flair. Its straightforward approach makes it ideal for VR newcomers who want to dive right in.
- Available on: Quest, SteamVR
Bigscreen Beta
Not a conventional game but a transformative VR experience. Bigscreen turns your headset into a personal theater or social escape. Perfect for relatives who appreciate entertainment without the interactivity of a game.
- Available on: Quest, SteamVR
Don’t Overlook These Gems
- Demeo: The virtual tabletop game that invites players into a longer, more complex game. Available on Quest, PSVR 2, SteamVR, and Pico.
- Gran Turismo 7 (PSVR 2): With a steering wheel, dive into a day of exhilarating races. Perfect for racing enthusiasts.
- Quest Intro Apps: For newcomers, Oculus offers several apps, like First Contact, that introduce VR basics.
- Half-Life: Alyx (PC VR): Impress any audience with its stunning graphics. Available on SteamVR.
- Moss 1 & 2: Platformer lovers will enjoy these games, though they might be better suited for those who like a quieter environment. Available on Quest, PSVR 2, SteamVR.
These VR games and experiences offer a little something for everyone, making them perfect for sharing the VR wonder with family and friends this holiday season.
