2023 was one of the biggest years forvirtual realityto date. Early in 2023, Sony launched the PlayStation VR2 headset for the PS5, its next-generation VR device that offers significant upgrades over its predecessor on the PS4. Not to be outdone,Meta released the Meta Quest 3a couple of months back, with it too offering some vast improvements when compared to previous versions of the headset.
VR didn’t just make advancements in the hardware space, though. 2023 saw its fair share of high-quality virtual reality releases, which included games built from the ground-up to be played specifically in VR and titles that can be played traditionally, but are enhanced in the virtual reality space. VR games seem to get better each year as developers continue to learn what works and what doesn’t in virtual reality, and it will definitely be exciting to seewhat the future holds for PS VR2and Meta Quest 3.
Before virtual reality enthusiasts look to the future, they may want to take a look back at the best VR games that released in 2023.
Arizona Sunshine 2
The originalArizona Sunshinewas one of the first zombie shooter games to release for virtual reality headsets, though many found it to be a relatively barebones experience compared to traditional shooter games. Luckily,Arizona Sunshine 2is a total upgrade over its predecessor in basically every category. It features a meatier campaign complemented by a horde mode, more robust co-op options, and more clever VR interactivity that goes a long way in making players more immersed in the experience.Zombie shooter gamesare a dime a dozen in VR, butArizona Sunshine 2is clearly leading the pack.
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Arizona Sunshine® 2, the next-gen sequel to the fan-favorite VR apocalypse, packs even more gore-geous zombie action!Welcome back to sun-kissed, zombified Arizona. Narrated by the unmistakable quips of our dark-humored protagonist, Arizona Sunshine 2 sets you on an all-new limb-strewn adventure in search of answers. In a post-apocalyptic world where every bullet counts, experience the thrill of realistic combat as you wield all-new and fan-favorite weapons–from shotguns to machetes and flamethrowers.And what’s better than braving the end of the f*cking world? Surviving it with your new best friend–Buddy. Not only is Buddy your four-legged companion through thick and thin, he’s also the goodest boy and will help take down those pesky Freds for you. And that’s not all, because fan-favorite co-op mode makes its return as well.
Asgard’s Wrath 2
Sanzaru Games released the originalAsgard’s Wrathto widespread critical acclaim back in 2019, with many hailing it as one of the absolute best VR games ever made to that point. Unfortunately, thefirstAsgard’s Wrathgame has remained trapped on the older Oculus Rift headsetsand is to this day a PC-only game, leaving out those that jumped on the VR bandwagon with the wireless Meta Quest headsets. That’s whereAsgard’s Wrath 2comes into play.Asgard’s Wrath 2was even better-received than its predecessor, with particular praise for its story and engrossing action-RPG gameplay. Arguably the absolute-best game that can be played on Meta Quest 2 and 3 headsets,Asgard’s Wrath 2is a must-play for VR enthusiasts.
Travel across vast realms inhabited by the gods in pursuit of the Trickster God Loki, who threatens to undo the threads of the universe. It’s up to you to battle gods and monsters alike as you take on one of the biggest and most epic scale Action RPGs ever experienced in VR. Alongside legendary Egyptian gods, you’ll fight deadly warriors and awe-inspiring mythical creatures through physics-based, visceral combat with unique weapons and playstyles. Possess unique mortal heroes and convert loyal animals into your own warrior followers as you explore a massive, free-roaming and living world and solve mind-bending god-scale puzzles.
Assassin’s Creed Nexus VR
Ubisoft’sAssassin’s Creedfranchise finally made the proper leap to virtual reality in 2023 withAssassin’s Creed Nexus VR. Afull-fledgedAssassin’s Creedgame,Nexus VRdoes a fantastic job of translating the coreACexperience to the virtual reality space. It doesn’t hurt that the game features one of the most popular protagonists inAssassin’s Creedhistory, the unforgettable Ezio Auditore, making it the perfect VR game for franchise fans.
Dungeons of Eternity
Some of the best experiences one can have in VR is playing with friends. Anyone needing a newco-op VR gameto play need look no further thanDungeons of Eternity, a co-op hack-and-slash game where up to three players work together to battle enemies in procedurally-generated dungeons.Dungeons of Eternityis enjoying some nice post-launch support as well with the release of the Frostbound update, so it should definitely give VR co-op gamers plenty of bang for their buck.
Gran Turismo 7
Gran Turismo 7originally launched in 2022 with no virtual reality features to speak of, which made sense considering the PlayStation VR2 headset wasn’t out yet. A year later,Gran Turismo 7received its long-awaited VR update, and fans have never looked back. PlayingGran Turismo 7in VR is a revelation, with the game taking great advantage of the PS VR2’s upgraded graphics to make players feel like they’re genuinely on its many racetracks. Nearly the entireGran Turismo 7experience can be enjoyed in VR, and it’s arguably the best way to play the critically-acclaimed racing game.
Gran Turismo 7 brings together the very best features of the Real Driving Simulator. Whether you’re a competitive or casual racer, collector, tuner, livery designer or photographer – find your line with a staggering collection of game modes including fan-favorites like GT Campaign, Arcade and Driving School. With the reintroduction of the legendary GT Simulation Mode, buy, tune and race your way through a rewarding solo campaign as you unlock new cars and challenges. And if you love going head-to-head with others, hone your skills and compete in the GT Sport Mode. With over 420 cars available at Brand Central and the Used Car Dealership from day one, Gran Turismo 7 recreates the look and feel of classic motors and bleeding-edge supercars alike in unparalleled detail. Each car handles differently and feels unique as you navigate over 90 track routes in dynamic weather conditions, including classic courses from GT history.
Horizon Call of the Mountain
Whenever new hardware is launched, its paramount that it’s supported by high-quality software. Sony made sure this happened with its PlayStation VR2 headset byreleasingHorizon Call of the Mountainas a launch title.Horizon Call of the Mountainis a VR spin-off of PlayStation’s popular open worldHorizongames, withCall of the Mountaingiving players the chance to encounterHorizon’s massive machines and gorgeous game world in VR.Horizon Call of the Mountainis still one of the best reasons to get a PlayStation VR2, nearly a year later, and is a must-buy for anyone with the headset.
In Horizon Call of the Mountain, you step into the shoes (and put on the gloves) of Ryas, a former Shadow Carja Warrior searching for redemption. Haunted by a difficult past and scouted for a dangerous task, Ryas has been offered freedom only in exchange for investigating a new threat to the Sundom. A master at climbing and archery, he will need to utilize all of his skills to survive the perilous journey for answers. New and old Horizon characters, including Aloy herself, will cross paths with Ryas to aid him in his quest to uncover the secret threat. Being equipped for any situation is vital to Ryas’ success, and throughout Horizon Call of the Mountain you’ll come across weapons and tools you’ll need to master to survive against the mighty machines you’ll meet along the way.
Humanity
Humanityis a critically-acclaimed puzzle-platformerwith an incredibly unique premise. In it, players take on the role of a dog that has to guide humans through dangerous stages. The entire game can be played traditionally on a TV, but it’s definitely enhanced when played in VR. Luckily, VR support is available for the game on both PC and PlayStation, giving fans the chance to try it out no matter their platform of choice.
HUMANITY is a third-person puzzle-action game where you become a dog to command massive, marching crowds of people to jump, turn, push, float, shoot, and climb their way to salvation across 90 story-mode stages.READY, AND…ACTION!: Devious puzzles and strategic thinking is broken up with more action-focused elements and platformer-like levels, even some epic boss battles!UGC = USER GENERATED CONTENT, UNLIMITED GRATIFYING CHALLENGES: Browse an ever-growing library of stages created by other players. Play, rate, and discover new types of puzzles in this limitless vault.CREATE AND SHARE LEVELS: Bring your ideas to life using the intuitive Stage Creator, be it a straightforward puzzle, action stage, or heck, even an artful sculpture!(OPTIONAL) VR Compatible: Immerse yourself like never before as you tower over the teeming, ant-like people! Mu ha ha ha ha!Whether on your standard display or in the optional VR Mode, watch as breathtaking swarms of people follow your commands to the exit, all in HUMANITY’s stark iconic style, courtesy of director and celebrated visual designer Yugo Nakamura and famed game creator Tetsuya Mizuguchi (Rez Infinite, Tetris Effect: Connected)
I Expect You to Die 3: Cog in the Machine
TheI Expect You to Diegames put players in life-threatening situations that challenge them to solve puzzles as fast as possible to escape. Since the original, theI Expect You to Diegames have taken great advantage of the unique features and control opportunities offered by virtual reality headsets, and the third game is no exception to the rule. Easily the best entry in the series to date,I Expect You to Die 3: Cog in the Machinefeatures everything fans loved about the previous games, but with better graphics and even better puzzles.
Resident Evil Village
SinceResident Evil 7, Capcom has continuously provided some of the most fully-featured and engrossing VR experiences on the market. In 2023, Capcom gave fans two newResident Evilvirtual reality experiences withResident Evil Villageand theResident Evil 4remake both getting comprehensive VR modes. But when it comes to the bestResident EvilVR experience of 2023,Resident Evil Villagetakes home the crown. WithResident Evil Villagealready built around a first-person perspective, its VR mode feels more natural and is easier to slip into. ExploringResident Evil Village’s haunting game world in VR is an experience one isn’t likely to forget anytime soon, and even those that have thoroughly played the base game will want to consider giving it another go in VR.
Ethan Winters finds himself in an entirely new nightmare in Capcom’s latest installment of the acclaimed Resident Evil franchise. Whether you’re defending against Lycans in the grim dwellings of the village or exploring the lavish Castle Dimitrescu, the meticulously designed environments immerse you in this eerie world, powered by Capcom’s proprietary RE Engine. Run from, hide or face off against a diverse cast of terrifying village inhabitants in dream-like - no, nightmarish - situations and fight your instincts to push through classic horror-based sequences. Also, be sure to check out “The Mercenaries” that unlocks once you’ve finished the campaign, a fast-paced and arcade-like game mode which challenges players to blast away enemies against the clock.
Synapse
There are so many VR shooter games out there that it’s easy for them to get lost in the shuffle, butSynapseis one that has really stood out thanks to its stylish, exhilarating action and roguelite elements. Throw in psychic powers that are incredibly fun to use in VR, and it quickly becomes apparent whySynapsewas one of the gamesnominated in the Best VR/AR category at The Game Awards 2023.
