Pack your VR headset case, because if you’re planning to visit family this holiday season, you’ll want to introduce them to some amazing virtual reality games that are perfect for players of all ages, from first-timers to seasoned gamers.
Even though consumer VR headsets have been on the market for almost ten years, there are still plenty of people who haven’t had the chance to try them out. Sadly, some may have missed the incredible array of VR experiences available on modern headsets. When showcasing these experiences, especially to mixed-age groups and VR newbies, it’s wise to start with games that don’t require lengthy explanations or complex controls. A smart tip: project your VR headset’s display onto a monitor or TV so everyone can enjoy the action!
Walkabout Mini Golf
Walkabout Mini Golf requires almost no introduction. In this delightful game, you’ll navigate a fantastic selection of mini-golf courses, from Venetian delights to creations inspired by Wallace and Gromit, MYST, Meow Wolf, and more. It’s excellent for gatherings because the putters automatically adjust to each player’s height, so anyone can join in, from kids to adults. Plus, with crossplay available via the mobile ‘Pocket Edition’, local multiplayer has never been more fun.
Available on: Quest, PSVR 2, Pico, SteamVR
OhShape
Feeling inspired by the quirky Japanese TV show ‘Hole in the Wall’? OhShape is the VR rhythm game for you, where you get to dance, punch, and dodge your way through walls to the beat of the music. It’s an easy and hilarious game to launch, offering endless entertainment as everyone tries to squeeze through increasingly challenging shapes.
Available on: Quest, SteamVR
Beat Saber
Year after year, Beat Saber secures its spot on our holiday roundups for good reason. It’s a mesmerizing and easily accessible block-slashing rhythm game that entices everyone from VR novices to experienced gamers. It’s wise to limit each person’s playtime to about 5 to 15 minutes, leaving room for retries and triumphs.
Available on: Quest, PSVR 2, SteamVR
Pistol Whip
Think Beat Saber, but swap the music blocks for stylish, John Wick-style shooting action. Pistol Whip mesmerizes players with its sleek visuals, making it a winner among older kids and adults, without causing concerns about on-screen violence.
Available on: Quest, PSVR 2, SteamVR
Tentacular
Imagine being a gigantic, lovable creature with tentacles, venturing through puzzles and play. Tentacular promises a mix of humor and problem-solving in a game that’s perhaps best enjoyed in smaller groups. It might not lead the pack as a crowd-pleaser, but puzzle lovers in your circle will relish the experience.
Available on: Quest, PSVR 2, SteamVR
Blaston
Blaston is a thrilling room-scale, free-to-play dueling game that pits you against another player in a combat ring, offering an arsenal of weapons to dodge and shoot with. Perfect for seasoned players and houses with two VR setups, it also boasts a single-player mode that lets you take on AI opponents. Everyone’s going to want a go!
Available on: Quest, Pico, SteamVR
Puzzling Places
If you love jigsaw puzzles, Puzzling Places elevates the experience into the third dimension with meticulous miniatures of stunning real-world locations. It’s a calming choice for anyone, especially those who prefer to stay seated. While it may not boast the high-energy appeal of other titles, it’s likely to impress older audiences with VR’s capabilities. Includes a mixed reality mode for Quest too.
Available on: Quest, PSVR 2
Superhot VR
Classic but ever captivating, Superhot VR weaves tactical gameplay with time manipulation, allowing players to plan out their moves as they battle crystalline enemies that shatter satisfyingly. This engaging title is perfect for players of all ages and generations.
Available on: Quest, PSVR 1, SteamVR
Wooorld
Wooorld transforms your Quest into something akin to Google Earth, letting you explore immersive 360-degree Street View scenes or gaze down at 3D cities. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting to revisit memories and discuss trips down memory lane.
Available on: Quest
Racket NX
Racket NX propels you into a lively, futuristic sport where every hit counts. Whether playing solo or face-to-face with another player—preferably when you have two headsets—it’s a great way to burn off post-meal calories and has universal appeal.
Available on: Quest, SteamVR
Angry Birds VR: Isle of Pigs
The classic Angry Birds experience has been revamped for VR (and MR for Quest users), allowing players to enjoy the simplicity without needing any elaborate how-to. Challenge friends and family to see who can score the highest with the fewest shots.
Available on: Quest, PSVR 2, SteamVR
I Expect You to Die Trilogy
Get ready for thrilling failures as players navigate deadly escape rooms in the charming I Expect You to Die games. These titles are easy for anyone to jump into and particularly suitable for younger groups taking turns in these virtual missions.
Available on: Quest, SteamVR
Vader Immortal – Episode 1
For the Star Wars enthusiasts among you, there’s nothing better than Vader Immortal. Immerse yourself in a galaxy far, far away, spending an hour with lightsabers and epic storytelling. While better suited for solo exploration, it’s a must-watch for any Star Wars fan with Let’s-players in tow.
Available on: Quest
Space Pirate Trainer
One of the most visually appealing and user-friendly wave shooters, Space Pirate Trainer brings arcade-style excitement with minimal explanation needed. Easy-to-pick and engaging for all ages, it remains a staple VR experience.
Available on: Quest, SteamVR
Bigscreen Beta
While not technically a game, Bigscreen Beta offers something magical—your own private theater within VR. Show your non-gaming family members the magic with this app by setting them up in solo mode and letting them explore free live TV or their favorite content.
Available on: Quest, SteamVR
Don’t Miss Out On
Demeo – This board game-style VR experience may take some explaining but offers cross-platform play with consoles, PCs, or iOS. Beware—this engaging game could take over your afternoon. Available on Quest, PSVR 2, SteamVR, Pico.
Gran Turismo 7 (PSVR 2) – Lend your VR setup a steering wheel attachment and explore thrilling speedways around the world, appealing to fans of all ages. Available on PSVR 2.
Quest Intro Apps – Oculus First Contact, First Steps, and First Encounters (Quest 3) offer an introduction to VR and its mechanics, which is perfect for small gatherings.
Half-Life: Alyx (PC VR) – A top-tier choice if you’re looking to dazzle with VR’s graphical prowess; just have a specific part of the game ready to share. Available on SteamVR.
Moss 1 & 2 – These platformers cater to fans of adventure games, although they are best played in quieter settings. Available on Quest, PSVR 2, SteamVR.
