Unveiling the Best VR Game of the Year 2024: Our Top Picks and Analysis

1. Asgard’s Wrath 2

Alright, let’s talk about Asgard’s Wrath 2. This game really made a splash, and for good reason. It’s a massive VR RPG that throws you right into the thick of Norse mythology, but with a twist. You’re not just some random hero; you’re a god, or at least you’re working with one. The scale of this game is pretty wild, offering dozens of hours of gameplay if you really get into it.

What sets it apart is how it handles combat and exploration. You’ve got a whole arsenal of weapons, and you can switch between different divine forms, each with its own abilities. It feels really satisfying to chain together attacks and use your powers to overcome challenges. Plus, the puzzles are actually pretty clever, making you think a bit instead of just swinging your sword around.

Here’s a quick look at some of its strengths:

• Epic Norse setting with a compelling story. You get to interact with gods and creatures from Norse legend.
• Deep combat system. Mixing melee, ranged, and divine powers keeps things interesting.
• Extensive playtime. This isn’t a short experience; you can easily sink 30-40 hours into it, maybe more.
• Impressive visuals for VR. It really pushes what VR can do graphically.

Honestly, Asgard’s Wrath 2 feels like a true next-generation VR title, setting a new bar for what we can expect from the platform. It’s the kind of game that makes you remember why you got into VR in the first place. If you’re looking for a big, engaging adventure, this is definitely one to check out.

2. Arizona Sunshine Remake

Alright, let’s talk about Arizona Sunshine Remake. This game first came out a while back, and honestly, it was pretty good for its time. But VR has come a long way since then, right? So, the remake was supposed to bring this zombie-slaying adventure into the modern VR era. Did it pull it off? Well, it’s a mixed bag, to be honest.

On the plus side, the visuals are definitely sharper. The environments look more detailed, and the character models have gotten a facelift. It feels more immersive than the original, which is what you want with a remake. The core gameplay loop of shooting zombies and managing your ammo is still there, and it’s still pretty satisfying. There’s a decent amount of content too, with the main story and the horde mode giving you plenty of reasons to keep blasting.

However, it’s not all sunshine and roses. Some players have pointed out that while the graphics are better, the overall feel of the game hasn’t changed all that much. It’s like they polished the surface but didn’t really dig into the mechanics. The AI for the zombies can still be a bit predictable, and sometimes the controls can feel a little clunky, even with the updates. It’s a solid zombie shooter, no doubt, but it doesn’t quite reach the heights of some of the newer VR titles that have come out.

Here’s a quick rundown of what you get:

• Improved visuals and environments
• Core zombie-shooting gameplay remains fun
• Includes main story and horde modes
• Still suffers from some dated mechanics and predictable AI

So, if you’re a big fan of the original and want to replay it with better graphics, this is probably worth a look. But if you’re expecting a revolutionary VR experience, you might find it a little lacking. It’s a good game, but maybe not a ‘game of the year’ contender for everyone.

3. Beat Saber

It feels wrong to talk about VR games and not mention Beat Saber. Seriously, this game is practically synonymous with VR itself for a lot of people. It’s a rhythm game where you’re basically a Jedi, slicing up incoming blocks with two lightsabers in time with the music. Sounds simple, right? Well, it is, but that’s part of its genius.

The real magic of Beat Saber is how it can be whatever you want it to be. You can play it casually, just grooving to some tunes and slicing blocks without much thought. Or, you can crank up the difficulty, hit those expert+ levels, and suddenly you’re getting a serious workout. I’ve definitely used it as a warm-up before diving into something more intense, or just to get my heart rate up a bit on a lazy afternoon. It’s just pure, unadulterated fun that also happens to be good for you.

Here’s a quick look at why it’s still a top pick:

• Accessibility: Easy to pick up and play, even for VR newcomers.
• Replayability: With tons of official music packs and an even bigger library of custom songs (if you’re on PCVR or modded Quest), you’ll never run out of new beats to slice.
• Fitness Potential: Higher difficulties will absolutely get you moving and sweating.

Sure, the base game costs around $30, and those extra music packs add up, but honestly, the amount of enjoyment and exercise you get out of it makes it totally worth it. It’s a classic for a reason.

4. Half-Life: Alyx

It’s hard to talk about VR without mentioning Half-Life: Alyx. Even years after its release, it still stands as a benchmark for what VR games can be. Valve really took their time with this one, and it shows. The level of detail in the environments is just incredible; you can pick up almost anything and interact with it in a meaningful way. It feels less like a game and more like you’re actually there in City 17.

What really sets Alyx apart is its physics. Everything reacts realistically. You can grab a bottle, smash it, and the shards will scatter. Need to reload your gun? You actually have to grab the magazine, insert it, and rack the slide. It’s these little things that pull you into the world.

Here’s a quick look at why it’s still so talked about:

• Immersive Storytelling: The narrative is gripping, with great voice acting and character development that makes you care about what’s happening.
• Innovative Gameplay Mechanics: From gravity gloves that let you manipulate objects from afar to the detailed weapon handling, the interactions feel natural and satisfying.
• Unmatched Atmosphere: The sound design and visual fidelity create a truly believable and often tense world. You really feel the dread of the Combine presence.

While it’s a PC VR exclusive, if you have the hardware, it’s an absolute must-play. It’s the kind of game that makes you believe in the future of virtual reality.

5. Red Matter 2

Red Matter 2 really surprised me with how much it pulled me in. It’s a puzzle-adventure game set in a sci-fi world, and honestly, the atmosphere is top-notch. You’re exploring these abandoned bases and stations, trying to figure out what went wrong, and the developers did a great job making it feel real.

What stands out is the interaction with the environment. It’s not just about clicking on things; you’re physically manipulating objects, using tools, and solving problems in ways that feel natural in VR. The way you use your tools, like the scanner and the cutting laser, feels incredibly satisfying and makes you feel like a real space explorer. It’s the kind of game that makes you forget you’re wearing a headset.

Here are a few things that make Red Matter 2 special:

• Environmental Puzzles: They’re clever and require you to think about how different elements in the world work together. You’re not just finding keys; you’re often rerouting power or fixing machinery.
• Storytelling: The narrative unfolds through environmental clues, audio logs, and your own discoveries. It’s a slow burn, but it’s effective at building mystery.
• Visuals and Sound: The art style is striking, and the sound design really adds to the feeling of isolation and exploration. It’s a feast for the senses in VR.

It’s not a super action-packed game, so if you’re looking for constant combat, this might not be it. But for anyone who enjoys a good mystery, smart puzzles, and a world that feels lived-in (even if it’s abandoned), Red Matter 2 is definitely worth your time. It’s a solid example of what VR can do for immersive storytelling.

6. Stellar Cafe

Stellar Cafe feels like a breath of fresh air in the VR space, especially if you’re looking for something a bit more laid-back and quirky. It’s got this chill vibe, kind of like a virtual coffee shop simulator, but with a sci-fi twist. You’re basically running a cafe on a space station, serving up drinks and snacks to a variety of alien patrons. The real standout here is how the game handles its non-player characters. They aren’t just static props; they react to you, to each other, and to the environment in ways that feel surprisingly natural. It makes the whole experience feel more alive and less like you’re just going through the motions.

What I liked most was the attention to detail in the cafe itself. The environment is cozy, and there’s a lot to interact with, from brewing coffee to cleaning tables. It’s not a super complex game, but that’s part of its charm. It’s the kind of game you can jump into for a quick session or spend a longer time just soaking in the atmosphere.

Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect:

• Serving Customers: Take orders, prepare drinks, and deliver them to a diverse clientele.
• Cafe Management: Keep the place tidy, manage supplies, and upgrade your equipment.
• Interacting with NPCs: Engage with unique alien characters who have their own personalities and requests.
• Atmospheric Setting: Enjoy the chill sci-fi ambiance of a space station cafe.

It’s a solid choice if you want a VR experience that’s more about relaxation and character interaction than high-octane action. It really nails that cozy, almost therapeutic feel, making it a great addition to any VR library.

7. Zombie Army VR

Alright, let’s talk about Zombie Army VR. This one throws you right into the thick of it, a classic zombie shooter but with that extra VR kick. You’re basically dropped into a world overrun by the undead, and your job is to, well, shoot them. A lot. It’s got that familiar feel if you’ve played any of the other Zombie Army games, but being in VR really changes the whole experience.

The core gameplay loop is pretty straightforward: survive waves of zombies and complete objectives. It’s not exactly reinventing the wheel, but it does a solid job of scratching that zombie-slaying itch. The controls feel pretty decent, letting you aim down sights and reload your weapons with a bit of practice. It’s definitely one of those games where you feel more immersed because you’re physically ducking behind cover or reaching for ammo.

Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect:

• Campaign Mode: Work your way through a story, taking down hordes of zombies and their grotesque bosses. It’s got a decent length to it, offering a good chunk of content.
• Horde Mode: If you just want to jump in and blast zombies for as long as you can, this is your go-to. See how long you can last against increasingly difficult waves.
• Co-op Play: Grab a friend (or a few) and tackle the zombie apocalypse together. It’s always more fun with buddies, right?

While it might not be the most groundbreaking title out there, Zombie Army VR offers a fun, if a bit predictable, zombie-shooting experience. It’s a good pick if you’re looking for some straightforward action and don’t mind a bit of gore.

8. Marvel’s Deadpool VR

Alright, let’s talk about Marvel’s Deadpool VR. This game definitely captures the Merc with a Mouth’s chaotic energy, which is pretty much what you’d expect. You get to swing around as Deadpool, crack wise, and generally cause mayhem, which is a blast.

However, while the vibe is spot-on, the actual gameplay can feel a bit rough around the edges. It’s like they nailed the personality but forgot to polish the mechanics.

Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect:

• Witty Banter: Deadpool’s signature humor is front and center. Expect plenty of fourth-wall breaks and sarcastic remarks.
• Action Sequences: You’ll engage in combat, using katanas and guns, but the feel of these actions could be better.
• Exploration: There’s some movement and exploration involved, but it’s not always the smoothest experience.

The game nails the chaotic, fourth-wall-breaking personality of Deadpool, but the actual moment-to-moment gameplay needs more refinement. It’s fun for the novelty and the character, but don’t go in expecting a super polished action experience. It’s a good time if you’re a big Deadpool fan and want to step into his (slightly wobbly) virtual shoes.

9. The Midnight Walk

Okay, so ‘The Midnight Walk’ isn’t exactly your typical high-octane VR adventure. It’s more of a… well, a walking simulator, but with a really unique, kind of dark artistic style. Think less ‘save the world’ and more ‘wander through a creepy, beautifully crafted world and see what happens.’ The game really leans into its atmosphere, which is pretty impressive. You’re not exactly doing a ton of complex stuff, but the environments are detailed and have this unsettling vibe that pulls you in. It’s the kind of game that makes you think about what you’re seeing and experiencing, rather than just reacting.

What stands out is the art direction. It’s not photorealistic, but it’s got this distinct look that’s both a bit gross and strangely beautiful. You’ll find yourself looking at things, trying to figure out what they are and why they’re there. It’s a slow burn, for sure, and might not be for everyone. If you’re looking for something that’s more about soaking in a mood and exploring a strange place, this could be it. Just don’t expect a lot of action.

Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect:

• Atmospheric Exploration: The main focus is just moving through the world and taking it all in.
• Unique Art Style: Expect something visually different, with a dark and sometimes unsettling aesthetic.
• Minimal Interaction: Don’t go in expecting puzzles or combat; it’s all about the journey.
• Thought-Provoking: The game encourages you to ponder what you’re experiencing.

10. Underdogs

Alright, let’s talk about Underdogs. This game throws you into a gritty, near-future world where you play as a boxer trying to make a name for yourself. It’s not just about punching; there’s a story here about fighting against a corrupt system and finding your place. The combat feels pretty solid, with a good mix of strategy and quick reflexes needed to win your matches.

What I liked:

• The story actually pulls you in. You’re not just fighting for glory, but for something bigger.
• The progression system lets you really build up your boxer, choosing different skills and styles.
• The environments are detailed and add to the atmosphere of the game.

It’s a decent pick if you’re looking for a VR game with a bit of a narrative and some satisfying action. It might not be the flashiest game out there, but it gets the job done.

Wrapping It Up

So, that’s our take on the best VR games of 2024. It was a pretty wild year for virtual reality, with some seriously impressive titles hitting the scene. We saw everything from intense action to mind-bending adventures, and honestly, picking just one winner felt tough. Whether you’re looking for something to really pull you into another world or just a fun way to pass the time, there’s definitely something out there for you. Keep an eye on this space, because VR is only getting better, and we can’t wait to see what 2025 brings.