Virtual Reality
Hardware, storefront and ecosystem news for Virtual Reality.
Latest coverage
The Steam Frame subreddit is currently losing its collective mind praying for a release date
The SteamVR subreddit is experiencing a collective frenzy as users anxiously await a release date for Valve's upcoming VR headset, SteamVR. Despite recent hints like a new "Great on Frame" category on Steam and a large shipment of VR headsets to the US, Valve has not yet announced pre-order or release dates, leading to a surge of memes and speculative posts within the community. Concerns about potential price increases due to Qualcomm chip costs are also fueling the anticipation for an earlier launch.
A night of Walkabout Mini Golf with friends reminded me of one of the biggest flaws with the Meta Quest VR headsets
A virtual reality session playing Walkabout Mini Golf highlighted a significant design flaw in Meta Quest headsets, specifically the single USB-C port. This limitation prevents simultaneous PC connectivity via Link Cable and charging, a problem affecting both the Meta Quest 2 and the newer Meta Quest 3, potentially impacting future devices like the Steam Deck.
Moss The Forgotten Relic is a great example of transferring games from VR, but making it "was no simple task"
Polyarc successfully transitioned the VR titles Moss and Moss: Book Two to flat-screen platforms like PC with Moss: The Forgotten Relic. Technical Art Director Tyler Walters detailed the challenges of adapting input systems, camera perspectives, and interaction design for a non-VR experience. While the lack of VR's immersive scale is noted, the porting process is highlighted as a significant achievement in game development.
Xbox brings starter edition of Game Pass to Meta Horizon+
Xbox is now offering the starter edition of its Game Pass subscription service to Meta Horizon+ subscribers in supported regions. This partnership allows Meta Horizon+ users access to over 50 Game Pass titles and 10 hours of cloud gaming. The Meta Quest Touch controllers will also gain Xbox gamepad emulation capabilities in the coming weeks.
The stage seems set for the Steam Frame's arrival as VR headset shipments are sitting in warehouses, but Valve is apparently still working on its "gamepad mode"
Valve's upcoming VR headset, the Steam Frame, appears to be nearing its launch as shipments are reportedly arriving in warehouses. Despite rumors of a delay due to the development of a "gamepad mode," recent updates to SteamVR and the addition of a "great on Frame" tag suggest an imminent release. The article also touches on the competitive VR market and potential pricing strategies for the headset.
G-Police spiritual successor G-Rebels takes flight in Steam Early Access
Reakktor Studios has launched its action flight simulator G-Rebels into Steam Early Access, featuring dogfights, an open world, and optional VR support. The game, considered a spiritual successor to G-Police, offers around 20 missions at launch, with plans for further content updates based on community feedback. G-Rebels is available on PC via Steam, with a VR mode requiring a compatible headset.
Moss: The Forgotten Relic Review – The Mouse is in the House
Moss: The Forgotten Relic brings the acclaimed VR puzzle-platformer series to consoles and PC, allowing players to guide the mouse Quill as "The Reader." While the transition from VR to a fixed third-person camera results in some loss of immersion and occasional design compromises, the game retains its emotional storytelling, engaging puzzles, and charming presentation. This package includes both Moss: Book I and Moss: Book II, offering a memorable experience for a wider audience.
Virtual Reality Check
Valve has released a preview of its first Arm-based Arch Linux build for the Steam Deck. This update allows users to install and run Linux distributions on the handheld gaming PC, expanding its versatility beyond its native SteamOS.
How much RAM do you need for an 'ultimate gaming machine?' July in PC Gamer 10, 20, and 30 years ago
This article looks back at past issues of PC Gamer magazine from July 1996, 2006, and 2016, highlighting discussions on RAM, PC hardware, and notable game releases and previews. It contrasts the hardware recommendations of the past with current standards and reflects on the evolution of gaming technology, including the rise and fall of VR excitement and the challenges of launching new multiplayer FPS titles.
Echoes of Aincrad Review – An SAO opportunity not taken
Echoes of Aincrad attempts to capture the essence of Sword Art Online by focusing on player choice within the virtual world of Aincrad, but ultimately fails to deliver a meaningful experience. Despite opportunities for avatar and build customization, the game suffers from sluggish pacing, repetitive objectives, and mechanical friction, making its core premise an opportunity not taken. The review notes that while the atmosphere and lighting are pleasant, these positives are overshadowed by significant design flaws.
Matt Damon, now a Fortnite skin, once turned down 'a bunch of money' to appear in a Bourne game because they…
Matt Damon, now a skin in Fortnite, revealed he once turned down a significant offer to appear in The Bourne Conspiracy game. He lobbied for the game to be more like the puzzle-adventure Myst instead of a first-person shooter, but the developers declined. Damon also expressed interest in video games and VR during a 2016 Reddit AMA, noting his fascination with their storytelling potential.
The age of accessible Meta Quest prices could be coming to an end as rumors swirl about the Quest 4
Rumors suggest that the upcoming Meta Quest 4 headset could represent a significant upgrade over the current generation. This potential advancement may lead to an end to the accessible pricing that has characterized previous Meta Quest models.
After Winning Hearts In VR, Moss: The Forgotten Relic Reaches PC And Console
Moss: The Forgotten Relic, originally a PlayStation VR exclusive, has now been released on PC and consoles including Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and Nintendo Switch. This definitive edition bundles the complete saga, including Moss, Moss: Book II, and the Twilight Garden DLC, with updated visuals and controller support for non-VR players.
You've never seen an Aston Martin like this — legendary car maker reveals SUV designed exclusively for Modern…
Aston Martin has unveiled the Dreadnought, a digital-only military SUV designed exclusively for Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4. The vehicle, featuring a V12 engine and luxury interior elements, will appear in the game's DMZ mode and the free-to-play Warzone battle royale. A full-size model will be displayed at Fanatics Fest.
Moss: The Forgotten Relic Celebrates Upcoming Launch With Stunning New Trailer
Moss: The Forgotten Relic is set to launch on July 16th, with a new trailer showcasing its polished environments, the character Quill's unique communication, and an ethereal art style. The game seamlessly transitions between the first two VR titles, and will be available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, PC, and Nintendo Switch platforms.
Echoes of Aincrad Review
Echoes 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 OBSESSION
ENVER 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 Feature
A 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 Check
Valve'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.