VR is all about immersion and one activity that most humans wish they could master in real life and could excel with VR is sports. Being able to pull off athletic feats just by wearing a headset and using a controller properly can feel almost as unbelievable as the real thing.
For those with a PC, gamers will likely use Steam for a lot of their games. Parent company Valve has its own headset called the valve index which can be used to create virtual sports experiences. But which VR sports games work well with the Index?
7/7 VR skater
It’s hard to believe there hasn’t been a landmark skateboarding game in the VR space yet, but Deficit Games is trying to make an impact with its debut title. VR skater. Currently in Early Access, the experience would be a mix of arcade and simulation elements.
Played entirely in first person, players will be able to explore four maps with full controller support from Valve Index. There is also an in-game Skate Academy that allows players to learn how to perform tricks. The plan is to add a main campaign that will have challenges implemented throughout.
6/7 Blacktop Hoops
Some of the biggest titles coming out year after year are sports games focused on professional leagues. It can be fun, but it’s also nice to get a title that’s only focused on playing sports in the neighborhood rather than a stadium.
This is where the virtual reality title Blacktop Hoops comes in. Another early access game, the entry focuses on basketball on an outdoor court against an AI opponent or a friend. So far, there aren’t a ton of modes beyond practice and play against a computer. However, those who like the basics of basketball will appreciate the mechanics already built in.
5/7 All-in-one sports VR
Sometimes it is difficult to choose a sport to play because there are so many good ones that can be translated into a virtual reality experience. Fortunately, All-in-one sports VR is here to let players choose between 11 different sporting events to get them into shape.
Available to play alone or with another friend in multiplayer, the experience includes sports like archery, billiards, baseball and more. There is also a range of customization options for the player character and difficulty options for those who want to relax or challenge themselves.
4/7 Top-of-the-range bowling
Bowling is one of those activities that allows everyone to participate and have a good time with it. A good bowling video game is one that embraces this notion while simulating the sport as realistically as possible. Top-of-the-range bowling is currently among the best in this category.
An entry that can be played with the Valve Index or simply with computer screens, the game features single and multiplayer options and plenty of bowling alleys to choose from. The game has a built-in commentator, voice chat, and even an editor to allow players to create their own custom bowling ball.
3/7 The thrill of battle
If there is a sport perfectly suited to the virtual reality experience, it is boxing. And while there are a handful of solid options to choose from that are compatible with the Valve Index, the one to look out for is The thrill of battle.
This experience aims to be more of a simulation than anything else. The other fighters in the game all have their own fighting style which will require the player to learn and understand how he can both attack the fighter and defend himself. The thrill of battle requires additional physical space to play.
2/7 Walkabout Mini Golf VR
Like bowling, mini golf is another one of those activities that anyone can do and have a good time, which makes them perfect for video games. There’s so much for mini golf fans in the game space, but for those looking for a good mini golf game on the Valve Index, it’s worth checking out. Walkabout Mini Golf VR.
This experience is not for those who want the simple roadside golf courses. Each course is built around large landscapes, leading to creative and challenging gameplay design. Up to eight players can take a round together, but like all of these multiplayer games, there is also solo play.
1/7 Eleven Table Tennis
It’s hard to believe that one of the most beloved sports titles on Steam is based on table tennis, but Eleven Table Tennis has done a great job in its mission to be one of the most realistic sports simulations in the VR space.
There are several AI opponents that players can face, but this game also has a built-in multiplayer mode. There are also multiple settings, including playing in the quiet setting of a home and playing on a larger scale stage in an arena. No matter where the game takes place, those who love this classic sport will really enjoy Eleven Table Tennis.
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