Get that VR headset case ready, because if you’re heading to see family this holiday season, there’s an amazing lineup of games perfect for introducing the wonders of virtual reality to newcomers of all ages.
Even though it’s been nearly a decade since consumer VR headsets made their debut, many folks still haven’t tried them. Or, they might have had a go and missed out on the truly outstanding games available on today’s headsets. With so many incredible options, far more than I can list here, you’ll want to steer clear of story-intensive ones or games that demand lots of explaining or complex movement for first-time players. Just make sure to share the joy by displaying your headset’s view on a screen so everyone can join in the fun!
Walkabout Mini Golf
Walkabout Mini Golf needs almost no introduction. It’s your ticket to putting your way through astonishing courses inspired by places like Venice, Italy, and renowned collaborations with Wallace and Gromit, MYST, Meow Wolf, and more. Perfect for all ages—since the virtual putters adapt to your height—this game even lets you play with friends using the mobile ‘Pocket Edition’ for local multiplayer excitement.
Available on: Quest, PSVR 2, Pico, SteamVR
OhShape
Inspired by the Japanese TV show ‘Hole in the Wall,’ OhShape is a VR rhythm game where you’ll groove, punch, and dodge to the music, making sure to fit through crazy wall shapes as they come at you. It’s simple to start, and watching everyone get tangled up is part of the hilarity!
Available on: Quest, SteamVR
Beat Saber
Beat Saber reappears on our holiday lists for a reason. Its captivating, easy-to-learn block-slashing rhythm is a fantastic introduction for VR newbies while offering plenty for all age groups and skill levels. Keep session times between 5 to 15 minutes per person to balance fun with recovery time for anyone repeating songs or working on their rhythm skills.
Available on: Quest, PSVR 2, SteamVR
Pistol Whip
Pistol Whip dishes out the addictive fun of Beat Saber but swaps slicing for shooting in an eye-catching style reminiscent of action movies. Ideal for engaging teens and adults without worrying parents about on-screen violence, it’s set to entertain the older kids too.
Available on: Quest, PSVR 2, SteamVR
Tentacular
Tentacular is as outrageous as it looks—become a giant yet kind-hearted tentacled creature solving puzzles or just enjoying some chaotic fun. It’s best for smaller groups, perhaps not the immediate crowd-pleaser, but puzzle enthusiasts in the party will love it.
Available on: Quest, PSVR 2, SteamVR
Blaston
Blaston takes dueling to virtual reality with room-scale action. Arm yourself, dodge, and battle it out in this free-to-play game. It’s fun online for experienced players and equally exciting in single-player for everyone else wanting to try their hand.
Available on: Quest, Pico, SteamVR
Puzzling Places
Puzzling Places delivers a tranquil experience with the charm of traditional jigsaw puzzles enhanced in VR. Featuring beautifully detailed miniatures from across the globe, it’s perfect for those who prefer to remain seated and serene. Ideal for showing family, especially the older members, how delightful VR can be.
Available on: Quest, PSVR 2
Superhot VR
A classic in the VR world, Superhot VR offers thrilling, time-bending battles that even older relatives will likely appreciate. Time moves with your actions, allowing calculated attacks and heart-stopping dodges amidst shattering red crystalline foes.
Available on: Quest, PSVR 1, SteamVR
Wooorld
Wooorld offers a Google Earth-like experience for the Quest, letting you explore immersive 360-degree Street View images or gaze upon intricate 3D city models. It’s a nostalgic trip, perfect for anyone wishing to revisit cherished places and spark lively discussions.
Available on: Quest
Racket NX
Fancy burning some post-holiday calories? Racket NX pits you against a reactive dome, racking up points and combos in this futuristic sport. It’s a winner with kids and adults alike, especially if they’re into squash, letting them dive into the action in single-player mode. Even more fun if you have two headsets for direct competition!
Available on: Quest, SteamVR
Angry Birds VR: Isle of Pigs
Angry Birds leaps into VR, ensuring both simplicity and nostalgia. Anyone can jump in without instructions, making it a perfect game to pass around and challenge each other to take out those green piggies with the fewest shots for the highest score.
Available on: Quest, PSVR 2, SteamVR
I Expect You to Die Trilogy
The I Expect You to Die games provide an adventurous twist with approachable gameplay, letting VR players dive into escape rooms filled with creative, whimsical traps. The trilogy is a hit among younger crowds who’ll enjoy watching and taking part.
Available on: Quest, SteamVR
Vader Immortal – Episode 1
For Star Wars fans, there’s magic in exploring a Galaxy far away in Vader Immortal. It’s superb for a solo adventure, providing a solid hour of immersion in the Star Wars universe. Episode one is the most approachable with a shorter runtime, ideal for newcomers.
Available on: Quest
Space Pirate Trainer
Space Pirate Trainer remains a visually appealing wave shooter that’s easy for anyone to dive into. Although VR shooters have evolved, it’s still the go-to for quickly sharing the gaming excitement without a lengthy introduction.
Available on: Quest, SteamVR
Bigscreen Beta
Though not a traditional game, Bigscreen Beta turns VR into a personal theater. Perfect for non-gamers, it lets them relax in front of a giant virtual screen to watch live TV or mirror computer content, making it a great, low-key VR showcase.
Available on: Quest, SteamVR
Don’t Miss
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Demeo: Perfect for board game enthusiasts ready to tackle a cross-platform match if you own the game on PC, console, or iOS. It’s time-consuming but rewarding for those who enjoy a long session.
Quest, PSVR 2, SteamVR, Pico -
Gran Turismo 7 (PSVR 2): A steering wheel controller can turn your afternoon into an exciting drive on global speedways, appealing to racing fans across all ages.
PSVR 2 -
Quest Intro Apps: Get new users acquainted with VR mechanics using Oculus First Contact, First Steps, or First Encounters on Quest 3. While not show-stoppers, they offer good introductions for potential VR converts.
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Half-Life: Alyx (PC VR): Though often needing a saved game state for new players, it’s sure to impress as one of VR’s best-looking experiences.
SteamVR - Moss 1 & 2: Quiet and captivating for platformer followers, these games are better suited for a calm setting without expectations of dazzling larger groups.
Quest, PSVR 2, SteamVR
