Virtual Reality
Hardware, storefront and ecosystem news for Virtual Reality.
Echoes of Aincrad ReviewEchoes of Aincrad, a game set within the Sword Art Online universe, fails to capture the magic of its source material. Despite featuring a unique combat system with parries and a partner mechanic, the game is bogged down by glacial pacing, uninteresting loot, and linear quests. The narrative struggles to establish its own identity, often overshadowed by the presence of series protagonist Kirito, leaving the player's own character feeling insignificant.
SCARY BABOON LAUNCHES PET UPDATE AS VIDCON MOMENTUM TURNS INTO NEW IN-GAME OBSESSIONENVER has released a new 'Pet Update' for their popular Meta Quest social horror game, Scary Baboon. This update introduces a system for collecting, hatching, equipping, and trading various pet companions, adding a new layer of engagement following the game's appearance at VidCon. The developers plan to expand pet behaviors and interactions in future updates.
My greatest gaming experience was a 40-year-old game in VR - Reader's FeatureA reader shares their profound experience playing Tetris Effect in PlayStation VR, describing it as the greatest gaming experience they've ever had, surpassing even classics like The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. Despite initial console issues and a lost Meta Quest 2 library, the immersive VR version of Tetris Effect provided an unforgettable and near-perfect moment.
Meta says its working on 'multiple next-generation headsets' despite the struggles of VR and the heat death of…Meta's CTO Andrew Bosworth confirmed that the company is actively developing multiple next-generation virtual reality headsets, despite recent studio closures. While specific details are scarce, Bosworth indicated that more information will be revealed at Meta Connect in September. The company continues to invest in VR technology, with a potential Meta Quest 4 expected after the Q4 2025 earnings call.- Virtual Reality CheckValve's Steam Frame appears to be nearing its launch, as indicated by the appearance of a new 'Great on Frame' category on the platform. This suggests an imminent release for the virtual reality hardware.
- Job listing suggests Nintendo is still looking into Switch 2 docked VRRA recent job listing suggests Nintendo is still investigating the implementation of Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) for the Nintendo Switch 2 when docked. While VRR is functional in handheld mode, the feature has not yet been enabled for docked play, despite initial mentions in system descriptions.
Stardew Valley enters the third dimension thanks to this in-development mod that even comes with VR functionalityA modder named kittycatcasey has developed a mod called 'The Third Dimension' that transforms the 2D farming simulator Stardew Valley into a 3D experience. The mod currently functions as a proof of concept, with plans to replace billboarded sprites with unique 3D models over time. Notably, the mod also includes VR functionality, allowing players to interact with tools in a virtual environment.
Assetto Corsa EVO: Three New Cars, New Kyalami Track, Overhauled VR and more in ‘Update 0.8’ Out Today KUNOS Simulazioni and 505 Games have released Update 0.8 for the Early Access title Assetto Corsa EVO. This update introduces three new cars (KTM X-Bow GT2, KTM X-Bow GT4, Volkswagen Golf 8 R), the Kyalami Grand Prix circuit, enhanced VR support with foveated rendering, and the ability to use community-created cars and liveries in multiplayer. The update is available now for PC.
Help, I can't decide if Stardew Valley in 3D is amazing or horrifyingA modder named kittycatcasey has created a proof-of-concept for a 3D version of Stardew Valley, which is compatible with VR. While the mod's creator plans to eventually give everything unique 3D models, the current version uses 2D sprites that swivel to face the player, creating a potentially unsettling effect that the author finds both "amazing" and "horrifying."- Virtual Reality CheckSolos has introduced new smart glasses featuring a privacy shield for their cameras. This feature aims to address privacy concerns associated with wearable camera technology.
Evening Reading - July 6, 2026The video game industry is facing significant challenges, with Microsoft confirming mass layoffs that will lead to Double Fine Productions and Compulsion Games becoming independent. Xbox has appointed Helen Chiang, head of Mojang Studios, as its first Chief Operating Officer. Additionally, Nintendo plans to discontinue original Switch consoles in Europe in 2027, while Microsoft is being sued in Wisconsin over data center practices.
Action Flight Sim G-Rebels Enters Early Access on Steam This MonthReakktor Studios and Senatis will launch the flight simulation game G-Rebels in Early Access on Steam for Windows on July 20, 2026. The game will feature a native VR mode, a first-person cockpit view, and up to 20 missions across new areas in the Atlas Archipelago. The Early Access version includes the first chapter of the story, side missions, and race challenges.- Prepare for Motocross Madness as Stunt X Mania Races out of Early AccessReVR Games announced the official 1.0 launch of Stunt X Mania for Meta Quest on July 4th, following a year in Early Access. The virtual reality motocross game features new modes like Career and Challenge, an expanded stunt roster, and customization options. The game will be priced at $9.99, with plans for future updates including multiplayer and adventure modes.
Analyzing the game industry's woes with Owen MahoneyFormer Nexon CEO Owen Mahoney discusses the game industry's challenges and his views on emerging technologies. After 25 years in the industry, he criticizes trends like the metaverse, VR, and NFTs but expresses optimism about generative AI's potential to revolutionize game development.- Virtual Reality CheckMeta is introducing a subscription service for features on its smart glasses, signaling a new direction for consumer technology. This move indicates a shift towards recurring revenue models for hardware accessories.
- Virtual Reality CheckMeta is beginning to limit features on its smart glasses, requiring a premium subscription for full functionality. This move impacts the accessibility of certain smart glasses features for users.
A native Discord app has finally landed on the Meta Quest 3 and 3S, and you can get a month of Nitro for free if you…A native Discord application is now available for Meta Quest 3 and 3S virtual reality headsets, allowing users to communicate with friends while playing VR games or streaming from a PC. The launch includes a promotional offer for a free month of Discord Nitro for new users who log in before September 30th. This integration expands Discord's presence across various gaming platforms, including PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X.- Level Up Your Darts! Darts VR2: Bullseye Adds New XP SystemDarts VR2: Bullseye has launched a new XP System Update for Meta Quest, with upcoming releases for PlayStation VR 2 and Steam. Developed by Gamitronics and published by Evolution Publishing, the update introduces a 25-level progression system offering rewards like new dart designs, cosmetics, and voice packs. Players earn XP through gameplay, with more points awarded for higher scores like 180s, encouraging continued engagement.
- Virtual Reality CheckDiscord is now available natively on Meta Quest headsets, allowing users to communicate with friends while in virtual reality. This integration aims to enhance social connectivity within the VR ecosystem.
- Discord now runs natively on Meta Quest headsetsDiscord is now available natively on Meta Quest headsets, following an announcement at last year's Meta Connect conference. This integration allows users to access Discord directly within their VR environment.