With each passing year, virtual reality games seem to get more and more advanced, providing players with new ways to experience all new worlds. 2019 in particular saw the release of some very unique virtual reality titles that push the limits of what the technology is capable of. This forward moving mentality is what pushes virtual reality to new heights and makes great new games possible.
It seems clear that virtual reality still has the potential for tons of growth, and that there is no end in sight for the advancements that virtual reality will make. Virtual reality in 2020 and the new decade are likely to bring new ideas players never dreamed possible, but until then, here are the top 10 virtual reality games of 2019.
Asgard's Wrath
Asgard's Wrath is certainly a wonderful way to kick off this list, as it has been heralded far and wide as a truly exemplary game. Asgard's Wrath is the epic adventure players have always dreamed of when thinking of virtual reality, and its grand scale never fails to impress. Unique mechanics, such as the ability to switch between god form, where the player can affect the environment, and mortal form, where they must traverse said environment, earn this game's place as the highest rated Oculus game of not only 2019, but of all time. Unfortunately, this game is not available on PSVR.
Beat Saber
Beat Saber is a rhythm game with a twist. Players use their controllers as sabers, one blue and one red, and must cut boxes of corresponding colors in a direction indicated by the arrow on the box. All this of course is synced to a great soundtrack in a cyber space. Though Beat Saber released in early access last year, it officially released this year, and fans have been loving it. Beat Saber can be played on any major headset.
Blade and Sorcery
Blade and Sorcery is a sandbox type game in which the player can engage in realistic melee, ranged, and even magical combat with opponents. Although this game is still in early access, fans of the beta sing its praises as a combat simulator, claiming that, although it is not finished yet, they see it constantly improving. Unfortunately, this game is not yet available for users on PSVR.
Blood and Truth
Blood and Truth claims to place players in their own action movie, and this first person shooter lives up to its promise. Players find themselves in London, dealing with the worst of the worst that the city has to offer. The game has been praised for having a great story along with its easy to use controls. It's graphics are also quite advanced compared to most games virtual reality has to offer, especially considering this game is a PSVR exclusive.
Five Nights At Freddy's VR: Help Wanted
Virtual reality seems made for horror games; the fear factor just multiplies when it feels like the player is really in the situation. Games like Five Nights At Freddy's seem made for virtual reality as well, the suspense, first person perspective, and lack of movement required make it a great fit for this. The cult classic puts players in the shoes of a nightguard at Freddy Fazbear's Pizza, who must contend with a set of murderous animatronics. This nightmare can be lived out on any headset on the market.
Pistol Whip
Another first person shooter makes this list, but this one is unique. Pistol Whip is also a rhythm game, and the action based levels are synced to set tracks. Enemies and bullets move in beat with the music, and their locations make the player dance along with the music as well. Truly a unique idea, Pistol Whip uses the technology of virtual reality in a very interesting way. Pistol Whip is only available on PC compatible headsets.
Stormland
This unique virtual reality experience allows the player to explore a vast open world as an android. Stormland impresses players with its stunning visuals, simple yet engaging story, and its sense of freedom. Perhaps the most impressive thing about Stormland, though, is its support of cooperative play. Not many virtual reality games have delved into this territory yet, so it is a breath of fresh air to see such a concept be fully realized in a satisfying way. Stormland is not available on PC, but not PSVR.
The Curious Tale of the Stolen Pets
Of course, gamers should remember that virtual reality isn't all gunfights, dancing, and horror. This cute adventure/puzzle game called The Curious Tale of the Stolen Pets brings the player on an epic journey to help their grandfather rescue their stolen pets. Rather than taking control of one of the characters, the player spectates from a third person view, manipulating the world around the characters and helping to solve puzzles. Players can experience this adventure on any major VR headset.
Trover Saves the Universe
Trover Saves the Universe is certainly a sight to behold. Made by the co-creator of Rick and Morty, Justin Roiland, this wonky space adventure brings all the wackiness one might expect from him. Like the previous entry, the player views the action from a third person perspective, helping Trover to solve the many obstacles that come before him. The game's wacky universe and creative characters are simply too fun to pass up and is available on any major headset.
Vacation Simulator
When Job Simulator released in 2016, it truly showed players and developers what virtual reality was capable of. Three years later, Vacation Simulator brings everything full circle. Developers are able to cater to players' creativity in all new ways now, and this game exemplifies that well. Vacations are available for players of any virtual reality platform.
2019 was certainly a great year for virtual reality, with many other releases beyond these performing extremely well too. With each passing year, progress can be seen in virtual reality releases that slowly are bridging the technological gap between these games and traditional experiences. The future is bright for virtual reality, and it will be very interesting to see what 2020 brings to the table for virtual reality.