Pack up your VR headset because this holiday season promises to be a fantastic time to introduce your family to some of the best virtual reality games out there. Whether you’re reuniting with loved ones who’ve never tried VR or those who’ve had forgettable experiences with it in the past, you’ll be glad to know there’s now a treasure trove of engaging games suitable for everyone, regardless of age.
Even though consumer VR has been on the market for nearly ten years, many people still haven’t fully explored what it has to offer. If you’re planning to bring your VR gear along for family gatherings, it’s best to stick with games that are straightforward and require minimal explanation. Story-heavy games or those with complex controls might not be the best choice, particularly for VR newcomers. And remember, for maximum enjoyment, project what you see on your headset to a TV so everyone else can feel part of the fun!
Walkabout Mini Golf
Walkabout Mini Golf is simple yet delightful. You and your family can indulge in intricately designed mini-golf courses inspired by places like Venice and collaborations with popular franchises like Wallace & Gromit and Meow Wolf. It’s perfect for all ages—putters automatically adjust to match each player’s height, and there’s crossplay with the mobile ‘Pocket Edition’ for even more multiplayer fun.
Available on: Quest, PSVR 2, Pico, SteamVR
OhShape
OhShape brings the quirky fun of the Japanese TV show ‘Hole in the Wall’ into VR. It’s a rhythm game where players must contort and dodge through walls to the beat of music. Boot it up, and you’ll find yourself and your audience laughing at the inventive dancing and creative moves it inspires.
Available on: Quest, SteamVR
Beat Saber
Beat Saber is a rhythmic tour de force that has consistently drawn VR enthusiasts and novices alike. It’s straightforward for beginners but offers enough challenge for more seasoned gamers. Aim to keep sessions short, around 5-15 minutes per person, to allow everyone a chance to experience its fast-paced, block-slicing action.
Available on: Quest, PSVR 2, SteamVR
Pistol Whip
If you’re ready to channel your inner action hero, Pistol Whip might be your game. Think of it as a mash-up between a rhythm game and a stylized shooter, fit for older kids and adults. It’s exhilarating and gives off definite John Wick vibes that anyone with a taste for cinematic thrills will enjoy.
Available on: Quest, PSVR 2, SteamVR
Tentacular
Enter the absurd and whimsical world of Tentacular, where you’re a giant tentacled creature tasked with solving puzzles while possibly causing playful chaos. Best enjoyed in smaller groups, it’s a title that will intrigue puzzle lovers.
Available on: Quest, PSVR 2, SteamVR
Blaston
Blaston takes you to a virtual dueling ring where you face opponents with diverse weapons. Perfect for competitive spirits in need of vigorous action, it offers both online matches and single-player modes, ensuring everyone gets a shot.
Available on: Quest, Pico, SteamVR
Puzzling Places
For those who enjoy a quiet but immersive experience, Puzzling Places transforms the classic jigsaw puzzle into a three-dimensional adventure featuring miniature replicas of scenic locations. Ideal for lounging with the family, it’s especially fascinating for older relatives who appreciate serene yet immersive activities.
Available on: Quest, PSVR 2
Superhot VR
This is a classic that provides time-stopping action, where time progresses only as you move. It allows you to plot your every move methodically, dodging and attacking in style. A unique game that tends to captivate players, young and old alike.
Available on: Quest, PSVR 1, SteamVR
Wooorld
Exploring Wooorld in VR is akin to traveling the globe from your living room. Offering a Google Earth-like experience, it provides endless possibilities to embark on nostalgic journeys and reminisce about places from the past.
Available on: Quest
Racket NX
Racket NX is an exciting futuristic sport where you’re hitting balls in an enclosed arena to rack up points. It’s ideal for working off those holiday meals while engaging in some friendly competition. Perfect for both solo players and multiplayer if you have more than one headset.
Available on: Quest, SteamVR
Angry Birds VR: Isle of Pigs
Everyone knows Angry Birds, and now it’s in VR (and MR with the right equipment). Its simple gameplay makes it a breeze to share around, letting everyone take turns at defeating the notorious green pigs with their slingshot skills.
Available on: Quest, PSVR 2, SteamVR
I Expect You to Die Trilogy
If your group enjoys puzzles, the I Expect You to Die games are perfect. These titles offer exciting escape room challenges that promise hilarious moments and unexpected surprises, ideal for a younger, energetic crowd to play collaboratively.
Available on: Quest, SteamVR
Vader Immortal – Episode 1
Give Star Wars aficionados the chance to feel the might of the Force with Vader Immortal. Though better suited to isolated play, it’s a captivating experience that lets anyone live out their Star Wars dreams in a galaxy far, far away.
Available on: Quest
Space Pirate Trainer
Simple yet visually stunning, Space Pirate Trainer is a wave shooter that remains one of the most approachable VR games. It’s ideal for newcomers who want to jump right into the action without requiring a tutorial.
Available on: Quest, SteamVR
Bigscreen Beta
While not a game, Bigscreen Beta transforms your VR headset into a personal cinema. It’s perfect for those who’d prefer to watch movies or live TV on a towering virtual screen, offering an impressive glimpse into the diverse capabilities of VR.
Available on: Quest, SteamVR
Don’t Miss
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Demeo: This board game demands some explanation but promises a rewarding experience for those willing to dive in. Find it on Quest, PSVR 2, SteamVR, Pico.
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Gran Turismo 7 (PSVR 2): Racing fans can indulge in thrilling laps with a steering wheel control setup for an immersive driving experience. Available on PSVR 2.
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Quest Intro Apps: Perfect for those new to VR, these apps offer a gentle introduction to the virtual world. Ideal for smaller gatherings of potential VR enthusiasts.
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Half-Life: Alyx (PC VR): Challenging to set up for demos, but unbeatable for showcasing jaw-dropping VR graphics. Available on SteamVR.
- Moss 1 & 2: These platformers enchant with their charm and are best enjoyed in a quieter setting. Available on Quest, PSVR 2, SteamVR.
With such an array of games, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this holiday season. Whether you’re introducing VR for the first time or rekindling an old fascination, these games are sure to create memorable experiences for the whole family.
