Pack your VR headset and its case, because whether you’re heading home for the holidays or having visitors over, it’s the perfect time to introduce people to the wonders of virtual reality. With an impressive array of games to choose from, there’s something to captivate first-time VR users of all ages.
Despite nearly a decade on the market, many folks still haven’t experienced the thrill of VR. Some have tried it but didn’t stick around long enough to discover the incredible games now available on modern headsets. When presenting VR to a group—especially a mixed-age crowd—it’s wise to avoid complex narratives or games requiring detailed explanations and intense motion controls. Whatever you choose, remember to connect your headset to a screen so everyone else can join the fun.
Walkabout Mini Golf
Walkabout Mini Golf hardly needs an introduction. This game takes you through beautifully crafted mini-golf courses with inspirations from enchanting locales like Venice, Italy. Plus, collaborations with Wallace and Gromit, MYST, Meow Wolf, and others bring a special touch. The adjustable putter sizes mean everyone—from kids to adults—can participate. Multiplayer fun is enhanced with crossplay for the mobile Pocket Edition.
Play it on: Quest, PSVR 2, Pico, SteamVR
OhShape
OhShape pulls you into a rhythm game universe inspired by the Japanese TV show ‘Hole in the Wall.’ You’ll dance, punch, and dodge while trying to fit through bizarre shapes to the beat of catchy music. It’s a sure hit for laughter and fun as everyone takes a shot at the increasingly tricky walls.
Play it on: Quest, SteamVR
Beat Saber
Beat Saber is a staple in VR holiday roundups, and for good reason. Easy to pick up yet addictive, this block-slashing rhythm game is a fantastic entry point for VR newbies and seasoned players alike. To keep the fun rolling, stick to 5-15 minute sessions per person, allowing space for retries and song repeats.
Play it on: Quest, PSVR 2, SteamVR
Pistol Whip
Echoing the thrill of Beat Saber, Pistol Whip swaps rhythm slicing for shooting in a stylish, John Wick-inspired setting. This action-packed game likely won’t stir concerns about violence thanks to its stylized approach, making it suitable for older kids, teens, and adults alike.
Play it on: Quest, PSVR 2, SteamVR
Tentacular
Tentacular is as playful as it looks. You become a massive yet kind-hearted tentacled creature figuring out its place in the world. This game offers puzzle-solving and chaotic fun, ideal for smaller groups and puzzle enthusiasts. It may not be the first choice for large gatherings, but it’s a unique game to pass around.
Play it on: Quest, PSVR 2, SteamVR
Blaston
Enter the ring in Blaston, a room-scale, free-to-play dueling game where quick reflexes meet diverse weapons. Engage in thrilling online matches or enjoy single-player mode against AI for straightforward fun. Easy to learn and play, it’s a game everyone will want to try.
Play it on: Quest, Pico, SteamVR
Puzzling Places
Enjoy a tranquil and engaging experience with Puzzling Places. Like a traditional jigsaw puzzle, this VR game immerses you in hyper-realistic miniatures of breathtaking locations worldwide. It’s perfect for anyone who prefers a calm, seated experience, displaying VR’s neat capabilities, especially to older family members. A mixed reality mode is available for Quest users.
Play it on: Quest, PSVR 2
Superhot VR
Superhot VR offers timeless, action-packed excitement. With its unique mechanic where time moves only when you do, plan strategic attacks and dodge with style as you confront crystalline enemies. Its captivating gameplay should appeal across generations without causing raised eyebrows.
Play it on: Quest, PSVR 1, SteamVR
Wooorld
Transform your VR experience with Wooorld, akin to Google Earth for VR. Explore 360 Street View photospheres or zoom in on toy-like maps of 3D cities. This game is perfect for sparking nostalgia and interesting conversations as you virtually explore familiar places.
Play it on: Quest
Racket NX
Racket NX brings a futuristic twist to racket sports, tasking you with smashing balls in a reactive dome to rack up points. It’s a dynamic way to burn off post-holiday feast calories while enjoying competitive fun. With two headsets, players can battle each other for high scores.
Play it on: Quest, SteamVR
Angry Birds VR: Isle of Pigs
Dive into Angry Birds like never before—this time in virtual reality. The game’s familiarity makes it accessible without a tutorial, perfect for passing around and challenging each other to take down green piggies with the fewest shots.
Play it on: Quest, PSVR 2, SteamVR
I Expect You to Die Trilogy
The I Expect You to Die series brings thrilling escape room challenges to VR. Watch as players meet inventive ends, from explosions to gas attacks, making it a fun spectacle. These games are especially engaging for younger players, allowing for turn-taking in missions.
Play it on: Quest, SteamVR
Vader Immortal – Episode 1
For the Star Wars fanatics in your group, Vader Immortal – Episode 1 provides an immersive solo journey into the galaxy. While less suited for crowds, Let’s-players will enjoy the narrative. Episode one is the most approachable and offers a short run-time.
Play it on: Quest
Space Pirate Trainer
Emerging as a wave shooter, Space Pirate Trainer remains one of the most impressive and straightforward VR games to introduce. Though the genre has evolved, this game’s simplicity makes it a great choice for one-time quick sessions.
Play it on: Quest, SteamVR
Bigscreen Beta
Though not a game, Bigscreen Beta can transform your VR headset into a virtual movie theater. Show non-gaming individuals how VR headsets can create personal cinema experiences. Users can enjoy solo mode or explore live TV using a mirrored computer screen.
Play it on: Quest, SteamVR
Don’t Miss:
- Demeo: A cross-platform virtual board game perfect for extended gameplay. Available on Quest, PSVR 2, SteamVR, Pico.
- Gran Turismo 7 (PSVR 2): With compatible steering wheels, drive through races in a diverse range of cars. For PSVR 2.
- Quest Intro Apps: Oculus First Contact, First Steps, and First Encounters provide a gentle VR introduction for newcomers.
- Half-Life: Alyx (PC VR): Awe players with high-quality VR visuals but ensure save states are prepared for easy demonstrations.
- Moss 1 & 2: These games cater to platformer enthusiasts, offering a quieter, more concentrated gaming experience. Available on Quest, PSVR 2, SteamVR.
With such a diverse collection of VR experiences, everyone from grandparents to young gamers will find something to enjoy. Whether you’re introducing them to the basics or diving into a more complex adventure, there’s no shortage of fun to be had in the world of VR this holiday season.
