Virtual reality (VR) is the most immersive way to experience a video game. It allows you to step foot into fictional worlds, unlike any other platform. From shooters that allow you to manually reload weapons, to interactive rhythm games that give you a workout, these games highlight what makes virtual reality so special.
Whether you’re a long-time enthusiast or a newcomer, this list outlines some of the best VR games available to play in 2024.
The list has been made in consideration of multiple genres and platforms and is in no particular order.
Best VR games available 10. Beat Saber Source: Beat Games via SteamPrice: $24.99
Beat Saber still remains one of the most popular VR games in 2024 because of the variety of songs available. It is a rhythm music game that is easy to pick up, but difficult to master once you reach the more challenging levels. Gameplay consists of striking down incoming blocks in tune with the music, which is constantly updated with both DLC and community additions. Because of its integration of motion controls, it is one of the most active games you can play, encouraging physical movement suitable for players of all fitness levels. Beat Saber is also considered one of the best rhythm games on the Meta Quest 3.
9. SUPERHOT VR Source: SUPERHOT Team via SteamPrice: $24.99
SUPERHOT took the internet by storm when it was first released on February 24, 2016. It’s signature mechanic where time moves only when you do is enhanced in the VR edition as you watch bullets race past you firsthand. The explosive executions have more weight to them as you shoot, cut, and punch your way through every red foe standing in your way. This edition of SUPERHOT is considered one of the best VR titles in 2024 because of its intense level-based combat encounters, which require a strategy to succeed.
8. Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes Source: Steel Crate Games via SteamPrice: $14.99
Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes (KTNE) lives up to its namesake as a co-op puzzle-solving VR game. Two players communicate with one another to disarm a bomb; with one player following a series of instructions whilst guiding the other to solve its elaborate puzzles. The bomb procedurally generates a random assortment of puzzles, giving great replay value to the game. KTNE is one of the best multiplayer VR games available, as in many cases only one person is required to have a VR headset while the other can download the official bomb defusal manual separately.
7. No Man’s Sky Source: Hello Games via SteamPrice: $59.99
Platforms: Steam
No Man’s Sky has had quite the journey since it launched back in 2016, and it has continued to become even more popular in 2024. It is considered both the best sci-fi game available and amongst the top VR games of 2024. The VR experience takes the space adventure to the next level, bringing new levels of interactivity to space-craft piloting and combat, base building, and on-planet exploration. Hello Games has continued to build on this game with a series of updates, including the first half of their graphical overhaul with the No Man’s Sky: Worlds update that was developed for the upcoming Light No Fire RPG.
6. Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim VR Source: Bethesda Softworks via SteamPrice: $59.99
Platforms: Steam
Players can experience the open world of Skyrim in VR, which has proven to be one of the best ways to experience Bethesda’s iconic fantasy RPG title. Being able to physically swing weapons, draw bows, and cast spells brings a new level of engagement to combat. The exploration that was celebrated in the original 2011 release feels more tactile and immersive in VR, with highly detailed landscapes you can see with your own eyes. It is a solid title to experience to help players get up to speed before the release of Elder Scrolls VI.
5. Subnautica Source: Unknown Worlds Entertainment via SteamPrice: $29.99
Platforms: Steam
Subnautica becomes the ultimate under water exploration game in VR. Exploration is enhanced as you navigate through its biomes and observe its wildlife. An encounter with a Reaper Leviathan becomes even more intense and horrifying when in VR, as you see and experience everything as if you’re really there. Subnautica is a great sandbox experience that lets players discover the seas at their own pace. It combines the best elements of exploration with core survival mechanics.
4. Rec Room Source: Rec Room via SteamPrice: Free
Rec Room stands amongst the best VR games for PC due to its social features. It is a title that lets you enjoy party games with friends or simply relax and chat online. It combines the social features of VR Chat with the creative freedom of Roblox. This VR game offers a fun way to connect with others online, giving you the controls to shape your experience. Create your own room or join popular community activities like paintball, escape rooms, dodgeball, and more.
3. Blade & Sorcery Source: WarpFrog via SteamPrice: $29.99
Blade & Sorcery is a sandbox game that gives players the freedom to tackle fights however they see fit. It’s believable physics system, making environment and NPC interactions more realistic, creates a VR experience worthy of praise in 2024. The game also boasts extensive mod support, allowing players to change the game from medieval fantasy to other genres such as sci-fi. Ever dream of being able to fight Darth Vader with a light saber while in VR? You can do just that in Blade & Sorcery.
2. Pavlov Source: Vankrupt Games via SteamPrice: $24.99
Pavlov is one of the best multiplayer VR games in 2024, taking the popular genre to new heights. It features your typical modes such as team deathmatch, search & destroy, and more. It introduces an additional layer of skill not found in other FPS games. By making players physically aim and reload their weapons, a new layer of skill is introduced to gameplay. Vankrupt Games also frequently updates the game with new content, and bug fixes, to ensure gameplay doesn’t become stale.
1. Half-Life: Alyx Source: Valve via SteamPrice: $59.99
Platform: Steam
The Half-Life series is highly revered among fans because of its world-building and compelling storytelling. Alyx serves as a solid middle ground to the fever dream that is Half-Life 3. The title demonstrates that Valve is still capable of delivering top-tier experiences after all these years. Serving as a prequel to Half-Life 2, we are placed in the shoes of Alyx Vance in the early stages of the Combine’s conquest of Earth. The game makes intuitive use of the gravity gloves, making object retrieval incredibly satisfying and nostalgic. It is our number-one choice for the top VR game of 2024.
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