Essential PlayStation VR Games in 2023

Virtual Reality has transcended the realms of geek culture and become mainstream entertainment, with PlayStation VR leading the charge. In 2023, the VR gaming landscape is peppered with inventive, immersive experiences that push the boundaries of gaming and digital storytelling. Whether you’re a seasoned virtual adventurer or a curious newcomer, this list of essential titles is curated to ignite your VR journey. From puzzle-solving to all-out action, here’s an overview of the must-play PlayStation VR games that should be on your radar.

Astro Bot Rescue Mission

Why We Picked It

Astro Bot Rescue Mission is a delightful surprise in the VR universe. It’s a perfect blend of platforming charm and innovative action that smartly utilizes VR to create an entirely engaging experience. With its vibrant graphics and clever level design, this game strikes a balance between challenge and accessibility—perfect for displaying the potential of VR gaming.

The game’s creativity shines as it capitalizes on the advantages of virtual reality, transforming the player’s viewport into a tool to explore every angle and approach puzzles from fresh perspectives. It has set a benchmark for VR interaction by turning your physical movement into a part of the game mechanics, a testament to its superior craftsmanship and inventive spirit.

Who It’s For

This game is perfect for those who love classic platforming games but wish to see this genre in a new light. If you’re looking to transition familiar gaming experiences into VR, Astro Bot Rescue Mission provides a comforting and exciting journey. Both seasoned gamers and newcomers will relish in its charm, playfulness, and accessibility.

Beat Saber

Why We Picked It

Beat Saber is like the Guitar Hero of the VR world, offering a rhythmic experience that blends music and visuals into a symphony of precision and timing. The game challenges players to hit colored blocks to the beat of a dynamic soundtrack, refining your reflexes, rhythm, and focus. It’s highly addictive and has become a staple in VR gaming due to its easy pick-up-and-play nature.

Its success lies not only in its simple yet challenging gameplay but also in its ability to appeal to a wide demographic of players. With regular updates and a wide library of music genres, Beat Saber continues to engage players in a dance of kinetic action and visual satisfaction.

Who It’s For

Music lovers and rhythm aficionados will find Beat Saber an exhilarating experience. It’s great for casual gamers or those looking to introduce VR to family and friends who are less familiar with gaming. The game caters to all skill levels, with varying difficulties that invite both beginners and experts to step up to the virtual stage.

Blade and Sorcery

Why We Picked It

Blade and Sorcery offers a visceral medieval combat experience that taps into the primal excitement of melee battles. In this VR environment, players engage in realistic sword fighting where physics and strategy play crucial roles. The immersive atmosphere has made it a noteworthy title among VR players who thrive on detailed combat systems.

Its sandbox nature allows players to interact with the environment and use a variety of weapons and spells, creating an experience fueled by creativity and personal strategy. The game’s dynamics provide a playground for those who enjoy meticulously crafted combat simulations.

Who It’s For

Fans of combat simulators and those who appreciate the fine balance of skill, timing, and physics will find Blade and Sorcery an enthralling experience. Tactical thinkers and fans of medieval lore will enjoy the variety of options for character customization and strategy, making every battle a unique event.

Elite: Dangerous

Why We Picked It

Elite: Dangerous opens up galaxies with expansive space exploration and combat in a beautifully rendered VR universe. It blends starship battles, exploration, trade, and more, all within a multiplayer universe. The sense of scale and wonder is unparalleled, making it the epitome of VR space simulators.

The game’s continual updates and engaging community ensure lasting appeal, drawing players into the breathtaking depths of space for strategies and adventures beyond our Earthly expectations. It captures the sensation of navigating the vastness of space, with a focus on realism and player interaction within a persistent universe.

Who It’s For

If you’re mesmerized by the cosmos and yearn for the thrill of frontier exploration, Elite: Dangerous serves as your VR ticket to the stars. It’s ideal for players who love space simulators and those who seek an immersive, community-rich, and evolving gameplay experience. whether you prefer exploring, trading, or battling throughout the galaxy, this game offers it all.

Everybody’s Golf VR

Why We Picked It

Everybody’s Golf VR is a light-hearted take on the golfing experience, providing a relaxing yet challenging day on the digital fairway. It captures the authentic feel of a golf swing and lush course environments. The intuitive controls and variety of play styles ensure a satisfying experience regardless of your skill level.

The game stands out in the VR sports category because of its balance between real golfing mechanics and playful, accessible content. Its approachable nature allows players to either unwind with casual gameplay or strive for perfection in competitive settings.

Who It’s For

This game is perfect for sports enthusiasts and casual players looking for a laid-back yet competitive VR experience. It’s designed for those who wish to enjoy the scenery and strategic play without the physical demands of actual golf, making it a great option for golf lovers and social gamers alike.

Ghost Giant

Why We Picked It

Ghost Giant presents a beautifully crafted storybook world that invites players into a touching narrative of friendship and courage. It utilizes VR’s interactive environment to engage players in unique puzzles and charming storytelling. The game’s emotional depth and stunning visuals exemplify the potential of VR narrative design.

Its whimsical art style and heartfelt storyline create a captivating adventure that appeals to the emotional side of gaming. Ghost Giant leverages VR to foster intimacy with the characters and environment, creating memorable, emotionally resonant experiences.

Who It’s For

This is for players who cherish narrative-driven games with heartwarming stories. Ideal for those who appreciate artful storytelling with emotional depth, Ghost Giant is a game that invites you into its world and leaves a lasting impression, perfect for anyone who values creativity and emotional engagement in gaming.

Half-Life: Alyx

Why We Picked It

Half-Life: Alyx is a monumental achievement in VR gaming, with a meticulously detailed environment and captivating narrative. It expands the Half-Life universe, offering a seamless blend of storytelling, exploration, and intense combat. The game utilizes VR technology impressively, making every interaction resonate with impact and immersion.

The return to the Half-Life world has been lauded for its intricate design and loyal VR adaptation, bringing iconic elements of the series to life with a fresh perspective. It’s a masterclass in crafting atmosphere and delivering high-quality gaming experiences in the VR medium.

Who It’s For

Fans of the Half-Life series and newcomers alike will be drawn to its engaging narrative and breathtaking detail. It’s perfect for those who seek an involved gaming experience with a keen focus on storytelling and gameplay innovation, making it essential for any VR aficionado.

I Expect You To Die

Why We Picked It

I Expect You To Die delivers a witty and engaging experience as players assume the role of an elite spy facing deadly traps. The levels are intelligently designed to encourage problem-solving and intuitive thinking, keeping players on their toes as they seek to escape dangerous scenarios.

The game is a brilliant homage to spy thrillers, emphasizing cleverness and creativity over pure skill. Its humorous tone and inventive puzzles create a captivating VR escape room experience that remains charmingly addictive and engaging.

Who It’s For

For those who enjoy cerebral challenges and the thrill of espionage, I Expect You To Die is tailor-made. Ideal for puzzle enthusiasts and fans of the spy genre, it’s a delightful option for anyone who loves a good brainteaser in an immersive environment.

Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes

Why We Picked It

Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes is a cooperative bomb-defusal game that thrives on communication and teamwork. One player is immersed in a VR environment with a ticking bomb needing disarmament, while others provide instructions from a bomb manual. The adrenaline-pumping dynamics make it an exciting party game.

The game’s unique premise and the requirement for effective communication set it apart in the VR multiplayer genre. Its emphasis on teamwork and pressure-filled problem-solving makes it a staple for social gaming experiences.

Who It’s For

This game is ideal for those who enjoy cooperative gaming and social interactions. It’s perfect for party settings or for families and friends looking to test their coordination and communication skills under pressure.

Lone Echo

Why We Picked It

Lone Echo immerses players in a sci-fi narrative driven by exploration and interaction aboard a space station. The game revolutionized VR mobility by allowing players to freely navigate zero-gravity environments, forging an authentic and immersive experience unmatched in VR gaming.

The game’s narrative depth and technical precision establish it as a pioneering storyteller in the VR space. Its emphasis on interaction within a realistically rendered space environment elevates it beyond conventional gaming into a full-fledged cinematic experience.

Who It’s For

Fans of sci-fi and narrative-driven adventures will find Lone Echo a captivating addition to their VR library. It’s ideal for those who appreciate the intricacies of storytelling in a richly detailed universe, providing a cerebral yet thrilling experience.

Metal Hellsinger VR

Why We Picked It

Metal Hellsinger VR marries rhythm-based action with immersive combat, creating a frenetic experience that syncs your every move to an intense metal soundtrack. This innovative blend of gameplay and music creates a vibrant and exhilarating atmosphere, challenging players to match their actions to the beat.

The synergy of rhythm and action in a VR setting introduces a distinct level of engagement, demanding both reflexive skill and rhythmic precision. The game’s vivid presentation and immersive environment make it a standout in the action-rhythm genre.

Who It’s For

This is for action enthusiasts and metalheads who thrive on intensity and precision. It’s perfect for those who appreciate combining music with gameplay mechanics, offering a novel way to experience VR through syncopated action and sound.

Minecraft VR

Why We Picked It

Minecraft VR brings the beloved sandbox world into an immersive perspective, allowing players to explore, build, and survive in ways previously unimaginable. The VR version of this timeless classic taps into its building mechanics, engaging players with a sense of presence and scale that elevates creativity and exploration.

The integration of VR with Minecraft’s iconic gameplay provides a new dimension to this globally cherished sandbox, emphasizing the ingenuity and boundless creation that has defined its success for years.

Who It’s For

Perfect for fans of open-world sandbox games, Minecraft VR grabs the imagination of players young and old. It’s a dream come true for those who enjoy building and creating, while the VR aspect invites both long-time fans and newcomers to experience its endless possibilities anew.

Moss

Why We Picked It

Moss captivates players with its rich, fairy-tale world and enchanting narrative. Players guide the adorable Quill, a small mouse on a grand adventure, through beautifully crafted environments and ingenious puzzles. The game smartly utilizes VR to create a personal connection with the character and the story.

What sets Moss apart is how it blurs the line between player and protagonist, creating a symbiotic relationship that enhances emotional investment and immersion, establishing it as a quintessential VR experience.

Who It’s For

For players who cherish storytelling and fantasy realms, Moss offers a heartwarming journey filled with charm and innovation. Ideal for those new to VR and veterans alike, its allure lies in its balance of simplicity and depth, making it a must-play for fans of narrative and adventure.

No Man’s Sky

Why We Picked It

No Man’s Sky VR introduces players to a universe of endless exploration and discovery, inviting them to traverse planets, build, and survive in an unfathomably vast galaxy. The VR adaptation breaths new life into its core mechanics, turning its exploration-driven gameplay into a more tangible and awe-inspiring venture.

The game’s continuous evolution and the addition of VR support highlight its commitment to innovation and player experience, offering tantalizing exploration across procedurally generated worlds.

Who It’s For

Those with a penchant for exploration and science fiction narratives will find No Man’s Sky VR an expansive playground. It’s ideal for gamers who appreciate boundless freedom and the thrill of discovery, offering experiences limited only by the scope of imagination.

Pistol Whip

Why We Picked It

Pistol Whip combines motion, rhythm, and shooting in a thrilling adrenaline rush, challenging players to blast through dynamic environments to music’s beat. Its innovative level design and gameplay mechanics require focus, dexterity, and rhythm, effectively merging arcade shooting with a musical symphony.

The visual style is both minimalist and vibrant, embodying the fast-paced action and intensity of the game. It positions itself not only as a game but as a vivid rhythmic experience that encourages fluidity and skill.

Who It’s For

Action seekers and music lovers alike will find Pistol Whip’s energetic gameplay irresistibly captivating. It’s perfect for those who enjoy rhythm-infused challenges and seek an intense, high-energy experience tailored to heighten player reflexes.

Project Cars 2

Why We Picked It

Project Cars 2 delivers a highly realistic racing simulation experience that immerses players in the intricacies of motorsport. Its VR rendition enhances the sense of speed and control, providing an authentic, immersive racing experience that captures the adrenaline of real-world driving.

The game is celebrated for its extensive vehicle roster, realistic physics, and detailed environments, offering an unparalleled simulation for racing enthusiasts. VR technology elevates these attributes, aligning the virtual world with players’ love for motorsports.

Who It’s For

For motorsport enthusiasts and realism admirers, Project Cars 2 offers an intense, wholly immersive driving experience. It’s ideal for those who relish the technical aspects of racing simulations and dream of feeling the road beneath them from a new and exciting perspective.

Resident Evil 4

Why We Picked It

Resident Evil 4 VR revitalizes this iconic title, immersing players deeper into its terror-laden atmosphere and action-packed encounters. The VR experience enhances its engaging gameplay, bringing a newfound intensity and perspective to its well-loved storyline and mechanics.

Its adaptation into VR breathes new life into the survival horror classic, reaffirming its status as a masterpiece in gaming narratives and design.

Who It’s For

This is essential for fans of the Resident Evil series and newcomers craving an intense horror adventure. It’s perfect for those who appreciate suspense, horror, and action in a VR setting, offering a revitalized experience of a beloved classic.

Resident Evil 7: Biohazard

Why We Picked It

Resident Evil 7: Biohazard VR returns to the series’ roots, emphasizing horror, atmosphere, and immersive gameplay. The VR immersion amplifies the horror elements, placing players directly into the action and heightening the fear factor with atmospheric tension and a gripping narrative.

Its successful implementation of VR depicts terror up-close, engaging players in the deep, unsettling ambiance of the haunting family estate.

Who It’s For

This game caters to fans of horror games, especially those who consider atmosphere as crucial within horror storytelling. It’s an intense experience for thrill-seekers eager for a survival horror game that maximizes fear using immersive VR technology.

Resident Evil Village

Why We Picked It

Resident Evil Village builds upon its predecessors with horror, action, and a richly detailed world. VR enhances its atmospheric tension, allowing players to experience its horror in a deeply personal and compelling manner. The game’s blend of exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat is tightly knit with its chilling narrative.

The VR adaptation strengthens its player engagement, providing an unforgettable adventure through this hauntingly beautiful yet terrifying world.

Who It’s For

The perfect choice for horror aficionados and those who thrive on story-rich experiences, Resident Evil Village offers an intriguing plot coupled with suspenseful gameplay. It’s designed for players who seek a thrill in the VR realm, with refined storytelling that maximizes suspense and excitement.

Rez: Infinite

Why We Picked It

Rez: Infinite VR is the pinnacle of sensory experience in gaming, combining audiovisual sensations into an interactive masterpiece. The game weaves music and visuals into a harmonious encounter that evolves with the player’s actions, crafting a unique engagement that defies traditional gaming genres.

This VR iteration is a sandbox of sensory exploration, enhancing its status as an artistic, innovative journey through music and visuals in an interactive universe.

Who It’s For

Perfect for those who cherish experiential gaming and audiovisual creativity, Rez: Infinite invites players into a realm where sound and sight become the gameplay. It’s ideal for art lovers, musicians, and anyone yearning for a unique sensory experience.

Robo Recall (for Oculus Rift)

Why We Picked It

Robo Recall explodes with energy in its fast-paced, arcade-style combat, showcasing VR’s potential for intense action-packed experiences. The game emphasizes dynamic shooting mechanics, creative dispatch of robots, and immersive environmental interactions.

Designed as a delightful blend of chaos and strategy, Robo Recall is a demonstration of technical excellence within VR, pushing the boundaries of action storytelling with its high-octane gameplay.

Who It’s For

Action lovers and competitive players who relish intense VR combat encounters will find Robo Recall a gem. It’s ideal for those who enjoy frenetic gameplay paired with skillful maneuvers, offering a shoot-em-up fiesta of epic proportions.

Subnautica

Why We Picked It

Subnautica VR plunges players into an oceanic alien world teeming with life, exploration, and intrigue. The VR immersion breathes new life into its captivating environments, expanding the boundaries of survival gameplay while delving into the mysteries of unchartered waters.

The game combines survival, crafting, and exploration, inviting players to uncover secrets beneath the waves, with VR enhancing its breathtaking beauty and suspenseful discoveries.

Who It’s For

Exploration enthusiasts and those who find themselves drawn to survival narratives will find Subnautica a rewarding experience. It’s perfect for gamers intrigued by environmental storytelling and the mysteries of vast underwater worlds, offering a contemplative yet thrilling adventure.

Superhot VR (for Oculus Rift)

Why We Picked It

Superhot VR takes the strategic shooter genre to new heights by making time move only when the player does. Its beautiful choreography of slow-motion action creates an experience that blurs the line between strategy and action, providing players an innovative approach to combat scenarios.

The minimalist design, paired with innovative mechanics, results in a critically acclaimed game that pushes the limits of the VR medium, encouraging players to think creatively about movement and action.

Who It’s For

This title is perfect for tactical thinkers and anyone intrigued by unique game mechanics. Ideal for those looking for an original VR experience focusing on strategy and skill, it’s a must-play for players who crave excitement beyond traditional shooter games.

Tetris Effect

Why We Picked It

Tetris Effect VR turns the classic puzzle game into a mesmerizing journey, accentuating its gameplay with immersive music and vibrant visuals. The VR aspect amplifies the timeless experience, transforming a game of strategy into an emotional voyage.

Its enthralling audio-visual ambiance renews the iconic puzzle, drawing players into a trance-like state where every piece resonates with audio and visual feedback, intertwining gameplay with sensory delight.

Who It’s For

Perfect for puzzle enthusiasts and those who adore rhythm and artistry in gaming, Tetris Effect is designed for players seeking both entertainment and relaxation. It’s a revitalization of classic gameplay, appealing to traditionalists and new players alike.

The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim VR Edition

Why We Picked It

Skyrim VR provides an authentic Elder Scrolls experience in a fully immersive open-world format, inviting players to venture into its vast landscapes and intricate narratives with newfound depth. The VR edition enhances its legendary status, delivering an unparalleled sense of scale and involvement.

It encapsulates the grandiose adventure and freedom synonymous with the Elder Scrolls series, fortifying it with the immersive possibilities offered by VR technology, making it a profound addition to virtual reality explorations.

Who It’s For

Ideal for both long-term fans of the Elder Scrolls series and VR beginners, Skyrim VR offers an epic journey into fantasy realms. It’s perfect for players who value exploration-rich environments and intricate role-playing adventures, embodying the ultimate VR escapism.

The Last Clockwinder

Why We Picked It

The Last Clockwinder blends automation puzzles with a captivating narrative, immersing players in its intricate mechanics and story. Utilizing time loop elements and mechanical creativity, players solve challenges by crafting intricate machines and manipulating time.

The game’s unique approach to gameplay and storytelling creates a visually and intellectually stimulating experience that highlights the innovative potentials of VR interactions.

Who It’s For

Aimed at puzzle solvers and those who enjoy automation and innovative storytelling, The Last Clockwinder offers a fresh VR experience. It’s designed for individuals seeking cerebral challenges within an intricately woven narrative, enhancing engagement through inventive puzzles.

The Talos Principle VR

Why We Picked It

The Talos Principle VR delves into philosophical themes and complex puzzles, offering a thought-provoking journey through a visually striking world. The VR version heightens the game’s reflective atmosphere, blending engaging puzzles with existential exploration.

It challenges players to question reality and existence through its intricate puzzle design and profound narrative, making it a standout title in the realms of both philosophy and gaming.

Who It’s For

This game is ideal for thinkers and fans of puzzle-driven narratives. For those who delight in mentally stimulating gameplay intertwined with deep philosophical questions, The Talos Principle VR provides an enriching, contemplative VR journey.

Trover Saves The Universe

Why We Picked It

Trover Saves The Universe indulges players with humor, adventure, and offbeat storytelling from the creators of “Rick and Morty.” The game utilizes VR to draw players into its absurd universe, laced with wit and unpredictable scenarios.

It stands out for its humorous narrative and engaging gameplay mechanics, cleverly leveraging VR elements to enhance the chaotic and comedic storytelling intrinsic to its creators’ style.

Who It’s For

Fans of comedic adventures and characters-driven narratives will appreciate Trover Saves The Universe’s humor-rich world. It’s tailored for those who delight in absurd, inventive storytelling and enjoy a lighthearted approach to VR gaming.

Vacation Simulator

Why We Picked It

Vacation Simulator provides a whimsical break from the everyday, inviting players to enjoy relaxation and discovery through diverse vacation-themed activities. It extends the playful legacy of its predecessor, offering engaging interactions in vibrant virtual environments.

Balancing humor with relaxation, it encourages players to explore and experiment in a joyful depiction of leisure, making it both an immersive and lighthearted escape within the VR experience.

Who It’s For

Ideal for players seeking a leisurely, fun-filled experience, Vacation Simulator is designed for those who appreciate humor and exploration in gaming. It’s perfect for families or anyone looking to unwind while diving into vibrant, interactive vacation worlds.

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