For the past few weeks we’ve been given access to an incredible array of PlayStation VR games, as well as the headset itself. Released in late 2016, the virtual reality set proved to be incredibly popular, selling out in many places whilst delivering some of the most awe-inspiring gaming experiences to players sitting in the comfort of their living room.
The Sony PlayStation VR Headset, Camera and Motion Controllers
So should you join in and splash the cash on a VR set? We certainly think so – and these 10 games are the reason why…
10. Driveclub VR
Driveclub is exactly what it says on the tin. Players are tasked with taking part in races, time trials and other various traditional game types that come with driving titles of this sort. Those behind the wheel can unlock brand new vehicles depending on how well they do in the various game modes, leading to speedier and more exhilarating games further down the line. It’s also one of the few games available for VR that gives a full gaming experience, so expect to spend many hours on Driveclub if you’re looking to get through it in its entirety.
9. Hustle Kings VR
A virtual reality port of the original Hustle Kings, this game of pool is fun for a short while. Getting you closer to the action than ever before (unless of course you’re a professional pool player), you’re taken into some of the most beautiful pool halls and given the opportunity to play some of the most intense games of pool available. League matches and tournaments are available, while daily challenges ensure you keep coming back for more.
8. Battlezone
Fans of sci-fi, look no further than Battlezone; an exciting title that brings the original game into the world of virtual reality and allows players to go up against one another in multiplayer, or let those who prefer solo play blast their way through a great single player campaign. Strategic choices have to be made if gamers hope to be successful, though this title definitely looks more challenging than it actually is – so don’t let the promise of difficult gameplay put you off!
7. Super Stardust Ultra VR
If you’ve played Super Stardust Ultra in the past but hoped to get a little more out of the experience than you originally did, here’s the answer to your prayers! At first glance the title may look exactly as it did originally, but with the addition of virtual reality comes a brand new game mode – Invasion. Built for virtual reality and unplayable without a headset, gamers are sent to the cockpit to fight enemies like never before. Space titles are obviously exactly what VR has been made for - and that’s clear with the additions here on our list – and SSU VR is one of those that will have you coming back for more each and every time you play.
6. Resident Evil 7: biohazard
If you’re looking for a truly terrifying experience, look no further. I thought biohazard was scary enough when playing from the comfort of my sofa with just a controller, so being immersed fully into the world of Resident Evil using the VR headset was a massive challenge. Playing through what seems to be the game’s first act in virtual reality, I was startled at every turn, but happy to be a part of something that seemed like a huge step forward for gaming in general. Horror junkies should be over the moon with this; honestly one of the best experiences I’ve had playing a game EVER.
5. EVE: Valkyrie
It’s clear from the first moments of EVE: Valkyrie that this is a game allowed to delight all over again because of virtual reality. Titles of this type are exactly the reason the headset has been made; for audiences who are looking for something more than their typical gaming release. Want to aim a weapon with your head? You got it. There’s also the opportunity to jump right into multiplayer games, each of which provide a thrilling and addictive experience. Personally, I spent three hours (that felt like less than one) zipping and soaring my way through space, saving those on my team whenever possible and giving myself a virtual pat on the back wherever I was successful. Though progression through unlocks is slow and the lack of team talk is a little silly when all players are equipped with headphones and microphones, this is a game you’d be stupid to miss out on.
4. Until Dawn: Rush of Blood
Another great horror which sees players sat in a mine cart and thrusted through a variety of different scary scenarios. If clowns are your ultimate fear, perhaps swerve this one! Handed a pair of firearms, you’re tasked with taking out the demons in your mind and making it to the end of a rollercoaster experience like no other. A lot of fun and a little more accessible to those who may not be the biggest fans of horror than the previously-mentioned Resident Evil.
3. PlayStation VR Worlds
This one’s a bit of a mixed bag! There are some wonderful games available in Worlds, and also some that you’ll probably play once and then leave behind. The ‘Deep Sea Dive’ for example is a beautiful (and frightening) look at the ocean, but once you’ve played through it, you’re not going to go back to it again for some time. Perhaps the best experience here is with the ‘London Heist’ game, bringing the player into the gritty underworld of London, into the shoes of a mobster who’s now being held captive by his or her former comrade. It’s a great tale with a few twists and turns that will surprise, and one particular sequence in a speeding car that had us laughing, ducking and weaving to ensure we kept our heads.
2. Batman: Arkham VR
For DC fans, this is the closest they’ll likely ever get to becoming the Caped Crusader himself, Batman. Jumping straight into Gotham City and starting the game in Wayne Manor, it doesn’t take long for you to descend as Bruce Wayne into the Batcave. There you are given the opportunity to put on the Dark Knight’s regalia before exploring the cave’s various locations and jumping out onto the dark and dreary streets, tasked with finding close comrades Nightwing and Robin. Based in the world that brought us the Arkham trilogy series from Rocksteady, however, it’s clear from the outset that this isn’t going to be a story full of joy, cheer and laughter. Instead, you are faced with hugely emotional scenes that really tug at the heart. When you’re there within the action, it’s hard not to get a little choked up; especially when you’re somebody who’s been a fan of this world for as long as you can remember. With all that being said, this is an experience every Batman fan HAS to experience at some point. They’ll leave the experience in awe.
1. RIGS Mechanized Combat League
Now I’ll be honest; this was the only PSVR game that we reviewed that I felt a little sick playing. You’ve got to take your immersion into the world of RIGS slowly, but once you’re in and able to play through without any troubles, it’s perhaps the most enjoyable experience the VR has to offer. Being thrust into Super Bowl-esque arenas and games, the player steps into huge mechanical machines and uses them to win games of American football, destruction and more. There are plenty of game modes here and customisation available for players, along with a league and career mode that ensures you’ll keep coming back for hours.
What do you think of the PSVR? Have you had a chance to check it out? What are your favourite games? Let us know!