2023 was a significant year for virtual reality up until now. In 2023, Sony released the PlayStation VR2 headset for the PS5, its new VR gadget that provides notable improvements compared to its previous version on the PS4. In a similar vein, Meta also introduced the Meta Quest 3 a few months ago, which also included significant enhancements compared to earlier iterations of the headgear.
VR also made progress in the hardware field, however. 2023 witnessed a significant number of top-notch virtual reality releases, encompassing games designed exclusively for VR as well as titles that can be played conventionally but offer enhanced experiences in the virtual reality realm. Virtual reality games appear to improve every year as creators gain more knowledge about what is effective and what is not in the virtual reality realm. It will certainly be thrilling to witness the advancements that await us in the future with the release of PS VR2 and Meta Quest 3.
Before virtual reality aficionados consider the future, it may be beneficial for them to reflect on the top VR games that were published in 2023.
Arizona Sunshine 2
The initial Arizona Sunshine was among the earliest zombie shooter games to launch for virtual reality headsets, although many considered it to be a pretty basic experience in comparison to conventional shooter games. Fortunately, Arizona Sunshine 2 is a significant improvement over its predecessor in virtually every aspect. The game has a more substantial narrative along with a horde mode, enhanced co-op choices, and smart VR capabilities that greatly enhance player immersion. There are many zombie shooter games available in VR, but Arizona Sunshine 2 is probably the most popular.
Asgard’s Wrath 2
Sanzaru Games launched the initial Asgard’s Wrath to extensive critical praise in 2019, with numerous considering it as one of the top VR games created up until that time. Regrettably, the initial Asgard’s Wrath game has been limited to the earlier Oculus Rift headsets and continues to be exclusively available for PC, excluding those who adopted the wireless Meta Quest headsets for VR. That’s when Asgard’s Wrath 2 becomes relevant. Asgard’s Wrath 2 was more favorably received than its previous installment, with specific acclaim for its narrative and captivating action-RPG mechanics. Asgard’s Wrath 2 is widely considered to be the top game for Meta Quest 2 and 3 headsets, making it a must-play for VR enthusiasts.
Assassin’s Creed Nexus virtual reality
Ubisoft’s Assassin’s Creed series successfully transitioned to virtual reality in 2023 with the release of Assassin’s Creed Nexus VR. Nexus VR, a complete Assassin’s Creed game, does an excellent job of bringing the fundamental AC experience to the virtual reality realm. The fact that the game includes one of the most well-liked main characters in Assassin’s Creed history, the memorable Ezio Auditore, adds to its appeal for fans of the genre.
One of the most enjoyable experiences in virtual reality is playing with others. If someone is looking for a new cooperative virtual reality game to play, they should consider Dungeons of Eternity. It is a cooperative game where up to three players team up to fight creatures in randomly generated dungeons. Dungeons of Eternity is receiving further support after its launch with the Frostbound upgrade, which will surely provide VR co-op gamers with great value for their money.
Gran Turismo 7
Gran Turismo 7 was initially released in 2022 without any virtual reality capabilities, which was understandable since the PlayStation VR2 device had not been released at that time. A year later, Gran Turismo 7 received its highly anticipated VR update, and fans have never turned away. Experiencing Gran Turismo 7 in VR is quite remarkable, as the game effectively utilizes the enhanced graphics of the PS VR2 to create an immersive sensation of being present on its numerous racetracks. Most of the Gran Turismo 7 experience can be enjoyed in virtual reality (VR), which is considered by many to be the optimal way to play the highly-praised racing game.
Horizon: Call of the Mountain
Whenever new hardware is released, it is crucial that it is accompanied by top-notch software. Sony ensured this occurred with its PlayStation VR2 headset by launching Horizon Call of the Mountain as a debut game. Horizon Call of the Mountain is a virtual reality spin-off of PlayStation’s well-liked open world Horizon games. Call of the Mountain allows players to experience Horizon’s large machinery and beautiful gaming world in virtual reality. Horizon Call of the Mountain remains a compelling cause to consider purchasing a PlayStation VR2, even after over a year. It is highly recommended for everyone who owns the headset.
Humanity
Humanity is a well-regarded puzzle-platformer with an exceptionally distinctive concept. Players assume the role of a canine character tasked with safely leading humans through difficult levels. The whole game can be played in the usual way on a TV, but it is certainly improved when played in virtual reality. Fortunately, the game offers VR support for both PC and PlayStation, allowing fans to experience it regardless of their preferred platform.
I Expect You to Die 3: Cog in the Machine
The I Expect You to Die games place players in dangerous circumstances that test their ability to quickly solve riddles to escape. The I Expect You to Die games have made full use of the distinctive features and control options provided by virtual reality headsets, and the third game is no different. The third installment of the series, I Expect You to Die 3: Cog in the Machine, is widely regarded as the most impressive thus far. It incorporates all the elements that fans like in the previous games but with improved visuals and more challenging puzzles.
Resident Evil Village
Ever since Resident Evil 7, Capcom has consistently offered some of the most comprehensive and captivating virtual reality experiences available. In 2023, Capcom provided fans with two new virtual reality experiences for the Resident Evil franchise. Both Resident Evil Village and the Resident Evil 4 remake received extensive VR modes. However, in terms of the top Resident Evil VR experience of 2023, Resident Evil Village emerges as the winner. Given that Resident Evil Village is already designed with a first-person perspective, its VR version feels more intuitive and is more seamless to transition into. Discovering the eerie gaming world of Resident Evil Village in virtual reality is an unforgettable experience that is unlikely to be forgotten quickly. Even those who have extensively played the original game may want to consider giving it another try in virtual reality.
Synapse
There are numerous virtual reality shooter games available, making it easy for them to go unnoticed. However, Synapse is a game that has truly impressed with its fashionable, thrilling gameplay and inclusion of rogue-lite features. Include psychic abilities that are quite enjoyable to use in virtual reality, and it becomes clear why Synapse was one of the games nominated in the Best VR/AR category at The Game Awards 2023.