After months of keeping the gaming community in anticipation, Sony has at last released its Sony PlayStation VR (PSVR) peripheral. Unlike the HTC Vive and the Oculus Rift, PSVR is very reasonably priced.
Not only does the base unit only cost US$400, it one only needs a Sony PlayStation 4 system in order to play games. With the Sony branding behind it, PSVR should easily surpass the other VR headsets in sales and popularity. In some ways, this could be the device that saves virtual (VR) reality gaming.
PSVR launched with 14 titles last week. Considering how most systems are released with less than a quarter of that number, this an accomplishment in and of itself. Those who take the VR plunge will find a range of games meant to cater to every need. Though each of these games are each unique experiences, they all provide a glimpse as to what virtual reality gaming could hold in store for the future. Before you buy, check out your options in the list below.
100ft Robot Golf (US$19.99)This is a game that has 100 foot-tall robots playing golf. Even though the title doesn't offer much more beyond this silly premise, that is all you really need—especially if you are a fan of giant robots. Beyond the robots, what distinguishes this game from other golf titles is that it is more about speed than keeping your stroke count low. It is better to hit the golf ball in the general direction you want it to go and then fly after it instead of going for a precise strike. 100ft Robot Golf may not live up to its potential but at least it isn't trying to mislead anyone.
Batman: Arkham VR (US$19.99)Probably the most popular of the launch-day PSVR titles, Batman Arkham VR lets players become The Dark Knight like no other game ever has. Instead of focusing on action, Arkham VR is a mystery game where players have to search for clues in order to solve a murder. Despite its pedigree, this title could be considered disappointing since it is only about an hour long. However, it does make one feel like Batman and that alone could be a selling point for most.
Battlezone (US$59.99)This is an updated version of the classic arcade game and it does a nice job of capturing everything that made the original great while still feeling modern. Unlike a lot of games for Sony's peripheral, Battlezone is exceptionally challenging. Though the game does feature a good number of weapons to use, it can become somewhat repetitive since there isn't much to do besides blowing up everything that moves.
Harmonix Music VR (US$14.99)Harmonix Music VR is essentially a playable version of those music visualisations that PC monitors used to have back in the early '90s. The game has some modes that let you interact with the music via puppets or paint brushes. There are also modes where you can sit back and relax to the in-game music or tracks that you upload. This game is something to play/experience when you're just hanging out alone at home.
Headmaster (US$19.99)Headmaster is one of the strangest games among PSVR's line-up since it doesn't require players to use a DualShock 4 or Move controller. Instead, one has to use their head... literally. Though hitting soccer balls with one's noggin' may sound mundane, and not to mention uncomfortable, this is a pretty fun title that manages to have a good deal of variety despite its simplistic gameplay.
Here They Lie (US$19.99)Those who want to indulge in something less sunnier may enjoy Here They Lie. This isn't exactly a horror title, but it does have a decidedly darker atmosphere when compared to other PSVR launch games. Players will navigate through a twisted world in search of a loved one while trying to escape enemies and solve puzzles. This one has been known to cause motion sickness, so it may not be for everyone.
PlayStation VR Worlds (US$39.99)
PlayStation VR Worlds features five different games that focus on one specific aspect of VR. These games are meant to be short, but this also means they are on the shallow side. The London Heist, Scavenger's Odyssey, VR Luge, Danger Ball, and Ocean Descent are good for what they offer but individually they aren't exactly deep experiences. Still, this package is good for demonstrating what VR can do.
Rez Infinite (US$29.99)
Rez is one of the better Sega Dreamcast games back in the day. It offered a solid experience before, but it seems to have truly reached its potential in VR. One of the trippier experiences on PSVR, Rez does a fantastic job of immersing players in a sea of colour visuals and intense music. You won't need to go out clubbing if you have this game.
RIGS Mechanized Combat League (US$49.99)
If you ever wanted to pilot a mech robot, RIGS is about the closest you'll get to living out that fantasy. This was made to be played at eSports events and it shows. This is a fast paced, aggressive shooter/sports game that is unlike anything out there. RIGS is not for the faint of heart and only those with strong constitutions need apply as the game demands a lot from players, both physically and mentally.
Thumper (US$19.99)Thumper blends a lot of disparate gameplay styles and ends up being a very unique title. This can be considered a racing game, but it is also equally a rhythm game and an endless runner. Thumper's fast speed may seem overwhelming at first, but after some time, it all becomes second nature. This is also an extremely gorgeous looking game, which is always nice.
Tumble VR (US$9.99)Like Battlezone, Tumble is getting a new lease on life in VR. Here, the player builds or destroys towers of blocks that come in various shapes, sizes, and even densities. The challenge comes from figuring out which blocks to use in order to create specific towers. Things get even harder later in the game when you have to stack blocks on moving platforms or with fluctuating gravity. The controls for this game may not be all that precise but the overall package is still enjoyable.
Until Dawn: Rush of Blood (US$19.99)Unlike Here They Lie, Until Dawn: Rush of Blood is a full-on horror title meant to scare the living daylights out of players. Unfortunately, everything that made the original Until Dawn great on PS4 is missing in its VR incarnation. Instead of being a cool action-horror title, Rush of Blood is an on-rails shooter. Yes, it does have moments that are meant to scare you, but they feel forced and somewhat cheap. This is probably the most disappointing PSVR game only because it could have been so much more.
SuperHyperCube (US$29.99)The goal of this odd puzzler is to fit a three dimensional stack of cubes through a two dimensional hole in an encroaching wall. The challenge is to orientate the cubes to match the opening before it is too late. If not, you'll lose points. This is the type of game you can play for a few minutes or many hours.
Super Stardust Ultra VR (US$19.99)The Stardust games have always been among PlayStation fans' favorites so it's not surprising to see one get brought over to PlayStation VR. The basic premise of flying around a planet and shooting asteroids into little chunks of colorful debris hasn't changed, but the game takes on a whole new dimension in VR where it is decidedly more immersive. The luminant colors, numerous power ups, and enjoyable shooting mechanics make this one a winner.
