Neal
COMPOUND
Overwhelmingly Positive (1,846 reviews)
Compound is a virtual reality first-person shooter that epitomizes the essence of VR gaming. Designed to deliver a straightforward yet thrilling adrenaline rush, it immerses players in a vivid pixel world that combines action, strategy, and a retro aesthetic.
Availability and Compatibility
Available on Steam and the Meta Quest Store, Compound supports Meta Quest 1, 2, and Quest Pro. Although a Playstation VR 2 version hasn’t been announced, the game has been primarily tested with Meta Quest 2.
Gameplay Experience
The Premise
Players embody an unnamed anti-hero on a mission to overthrow a corrupt mega-corporation’s CEO. Starting in a dilapidated flat, players choose their difficulty level in a novel way: eating a cake for Easy, a medium-rare steak for Medium, or a bottle of liquor for Hard. The game lacks traditional cutscenes, instead, the story unfolds through environmental cues as players advance through levels like sewers, warehouses, and luxurious executive floors.
Rogue-Lite Mechanics
As a Rogue-Lite, Compound involves repeated attempts, especially on higher difficulties. The game features a variety of enemies and weapons, enhanced by unique mutators for genetic manipulation. These mutators can drastically alter gameplay, like the “Oldschooler mode” which mimics classic shooters, increasing both player speed and enemy threat.
Dynamic Gameplay and Replayability
The randomized levels and diverse enemy types keep the gameplay fresh. With its array of weapons and strategic gameplay choices, Compound offers a satisfyingly varied experience each playthrough.
Gameplay Elements
Weapons and Combat
The game boasts an extensive arsenal, each weapon with its own strengths and weaknesses. Players navigate compact levels, engaging in kinetic combat that is both intense and immersive, particularly with the tetherless Meta Quest 2.
Reloading and AI Challenges
Unique reloading mechanics require players to internalize different methods for each weapon, adding to the game’s depth. However, the game’s AI, particularly for humanoid enemies, is less sophisticated, relying more on numbers than strategy.
Audiovisual Impact
Compound’s pixel art style is complemented by an electrifying synthwave soundtrack by Speedblack, enhancing the overall atmosphere. The game’s visuals and music together create a nostalgic nod to ’90s shooters like Wolfenstein 3D and Doom.
Game Structure and Content
Levels and Objectives
Each level centers on eliminating all enemies, with varied enemy types posing different challenges. The game’s procedural generation offers three difficulty levels, impacting the game’s ending.
Weaponry and Modifiers
A diverse selection of weapons evolves with player progress, accommodating different playstyles. Modifiers, such as ‘Old Schooler’ and ‘People Population’, offer varying advantages and challenges, significantly impacting gameplay.
Reloading Mechanics and Control Scheme
The reloading system, while immersive, can be cumbersome in the heat of battle. The ‘Extra Arms’ modifier offers an alternative for players who prefer focusing on action. The game’s control scheme is highly immersive, with intuitive VR-specific features.
Comfort and Accessibility
Compound is designed for standing play, with options for teleportation or artificial locomotion. The absence of comfort vignettes might be challenging for some players. The game accommodates both left and right-handed players and allows toggling off gore and needles for player comfort.
Final Verdict
A unique blend of VR, FPS, and retro aesthetics, Compound stands out as a highly replayable experience. Its combination of strategic gameplay, varied enemy types, and engaging mechanics makes it a fresh addition to the VR genre. However, it has room for content expansion, with the developer, Bevan McKechnie, moving on to new projects.
Compound is a testament to the classic ’90s shooters, reimagined in a modern VR context, offering both nostalgia and innovation for a wide range of players.
| Language | Interface | Full Audio | Subtitles |
|---|---|---|---|
| English | ✔ | ✔ |
| Specification | Requirement |
|---|---|
| OS | Windows 7 SP1* |
| Processor | Intel i5-4590 or equivalent |
| Memory | 4 GB RAM |
| Graphics | GTX 980 or equivalent |
| Storage | 100 MB available space |
| VR Support | SteamVR, Standing or Room Scale |
Five Nights at Freddy’s: Help Wanted 2
Very Positive (2,760 reviews)
Five Nights at Freddy’s: Help Wanted 2 is the latest addition to the celebrated Five Nights at Freddy’s (FNAF) series. Developed by Steel Wool Games and set to release on PS VR2 on December 14, 2023, this virtual-reality survival horror game continues the intricate and dark narrative established in its predecessors.
The Evolution of the FNAF Series
Origins and Impact
- First Game: The series began with the original FNAF game in 2014, created by Scott Cawthon. This point-and-click survival horror game introduced players to Mike Schmidt, a security guard at Freddy Fazbear’s Pizza.
- Growth: FNAF quickly became a viral sensation, evolving into a multimedia franchise with over 10 mainline games, spin-offs, comic books, novels, and a 2023 live-action film.
The FNAF Movie
- Box Office Success: Produced by Blumhouse, the movie adaptation grossed $294.9 million worldwide. It drew inspiration from the first FNAF game but established its own continuity.
- Plot and Characters: The movie features Josh Hutcherson as Mike, battling homicidal animatronics and uncovering family secrets, with a focus on the antagonist William Afton, portrayed by Matthew Lillard.
Setting and Gameplay
- Timeline: The game is set between Security Breach and its DLC, Ruin. Players find themselves in the Mega Pizzaplex, filled with attractions and animatronics.
- Player Experience: Players take on the role of an employee tasked with maintenance in the Pizzaplex while dealing with the threats posed by Glitchtrap-controlled animatronics.
Storyline and Characters
- Key Characters: The game features Gregory and Cassie, two youngsters navigating the dangers of the Pizzaplex.
- Antagonists: The narrative revolves around the mysterious Glitchtrap and the infamous William Afton, who refuses to fade away even after death, returning as a digital virus.
Technical and Gameplay Innovations
- VR/AR Integration: Players are equipped with a Security Mask, allowing interaction with the game’s AR world and control over the Pizzaplex’s electronics.
- Dynamic Gameplay: Each playthrough offers unique experiences with various mini-games and challenges.
Plot Twists and Endings
The FNAF Movie Continuity
- Vanessa’s Backstory: The movie alters Vanessa’s character, revealing her as William Afton’s daughter. This significant change from the game series adds depth to the character dynamics.
Help Wanted 2’s Impact on Lore
- Endings: The game offers multiple endings, each revealing different aspects of the FNAF lore. The player discovers they have been in the AR world throughout the game, influencing future events.
Future of the Franchise
- Continued Relevance: With its complex lore and engaging gameplay, the FNAF series shows no signs of slowing down. Help Wanted 2 sets the stage for future developments in the universe.
Release and Expectations
Launch Details
- Early Release: Originally scheduled for late December, the game’s launch has been moved to December 14, 2023.
- Gameplay Trailer: A trailer provides a glimpse into the immersive VR experience awaiting players.
Anticipation and Gameplay Elements
- Varied Mini-Games: The game features six categories of mini-games, each offering unique challenges and surprises.
- Replayability: With a focus on diversity in gameplay, no two experiences will be identical, ensuring a fresh and thrilling adventure for players every time.
In conclusion, Five Nights at Freddy’s: Help Wanted 2 not only continues the legacy of the FNAF series but also enriches its intricate lore. With its anticipated release, fans can look forward to a new chapter of suspense, horror, and immersive virtual-reality experiences.
| Language | Interface | Full Audio | Subtitles |
|---|---|---|---|
| English | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| French | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Italian | ✔ | ✔ | |
| German | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Spanish – Spain | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Portuguese – Brazil | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Spanish – Latin America | ✔ | ✔ |
Minimum System Requirements:
| Specification | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Processor | Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system |
| OS | Windows 10/11 |
| Processor | AMD Ryzen 5 1500X / Intel i5-8400 |
| Memory | 16 GB RAM |
| Graphics | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1070 8GB / AMD RX Vega 56 8GB |
| Storage | 8 GB available space |
| VR Support | Valve Index, and Meta Quest 2/3/Pro through SteamVR |
| Additional Notes | For optimal experience with Meta Quest headset, use of the Quest Link Cable is strongly recommended |
Recommended System Requirements:
| Specification | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Processor | Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system |
| Additional Notes | For optimal experience with Meta Quest headset, use of the Quest Link Cable is strongly recommended |
Vertigo 2
Overwhelmingly Positive (1,814 reviews)
Vertigo 2 emerges as a groundbreaking title in the VR gaming world, captivating players with its unique blend of humor, action, and adventure. Developed by the solo talent Zach Tsiakalis-Brown, this game sets a new standard for VR shooters on platforms like SteamVR and PSVR2.
Engaging Gameplay and Story
Varied and Challenging Enemies
Vertigo 2 excels with its vast array of enemies, surpassing many VR shooters in diversity and engagement. The game keeps players hooked with its varied gameplay, challenging bosses, and intriguing puzzles.
Strong Narrative and Humor
Humor plays a significant role in Vertigo 2, with well-timed jokes and top-notch voice acting adding to its charm. The story is compelling and easy to follow, featuring epic moments that enhance the gaming experience.
Immersive Game Mechanics
The game addresses initial issues with aiming mechanics by introducing augment stations for weapon upgrades. The movement and camera options, including teleportation and smooth camera movements, cater to different playstyles, although some may cause discomfort.
Technical Excellence and Replayability
Extensive Gameplay
Vertigo 2 is a massive game for a VR title, boasting over ten hours of gameplay. It encourages exploration and secret-finding, providing a sense of achievement and progression.
Intuitive Controls and Weapon Mechanics
Once accustomed to the quirks of gunplay, players find the controls intuitive. The unique reload sequences and auto-recharging ammo clips add depth to the combat experience.
Replayability
The game’s difficulty can be adjusted to match player skill, and the hidden secrets contribute to its high replayability. Different approaches to combat, including stealth and aggressive tactics, offer varied experiences.
Technical Aspects and Visuals
Performance on PSVR2
Vertigo 2 shows seamless movement and interactions on PSVR2, though it experiences some framerate drops. The haptic feedback could be utilized more intensively for weapon interactions.
Realistic Visuals
The game stands out with its detailed gore effects (optional) and realistic interactions between virtual hands, weapons, and the environment.
Conclusion
A Must-Have for VR Enthusiasts
Despite minor critiques, Vertigo 2 is an impressive feat, especially considering its solo development. It’s a robust sci-fi adventure filled with humor and impressively modeled characters and environments. As a captivating VR sci-fi adventure, it’s a standout title for the year.
Legacy and Impact
Vertigo 2 is the successor to the SteamVR hit from 2016 and fills a gap in the AAA VR shooter space. Its homage to classics like Half-Life, combined with its own creative flair, makes it a must-play for action fans and VR enthusiasts alike.
Final Thoughts
Vertigo 2 is a testament to the creativity and capability of indie developers in the VR space. With its rich content, engaging gameplay, and inventive humor, it’s a game that should not be missed by anyone looking for a comprehensive and enjoyable VR experience.
| Language | Interface | Full Audio | Subtitles |
|---|---|---|---|
| English | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| French | ✔ | ✔ | |
| German | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Spanish – Spain | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Ukrainian | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Dutch | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Japanese | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Polish | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Russian | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Simplified Chinese | ✔ | ✔ |
Minimum System Requirements:
| Specification | Requirement |
|---|---|
| OS | Windows 7 or higher* |
| Processor | Intel i5 4690k |
| Memory | 4 GB RAM |
| Graphics | NVidia 970 or AMD equivalent |
| Storage | 8 GB available space |
| VR Support | SteamVR |
Recommended System Requirements:
| Specification | Requirement |
|---|---|
| OS | Windows 7 or higher* |
| Processor | Intel i5 4690k |
| Memory | 4 GB RAM |
| Graphics | NVidia 1080ti |
| Storage | 8 GB available space |
| VR Support | SteamVR |
Note:
- Starting January 1st, 2024, the Steam Client will only support Windows 10 and later versions.
Gorilla Tag
Very Positive (12,066 reviews)
After the phenomenal success of Gorilla Tag, the development studio Another Axiom is now unveiling a new VR game, tentatively titled “Project A2”. This game is inspired by the classic Echo VR and aims to blend elements from both Echo VR and Gorilla Tag.
Development Background
The Success of Gorilla Tag
Gorilla Tag, known for its simple mechanics and low graphical requirements, achieved significant popularity on the Quest 2, especially among younger audiences. Despite its simplicity, it has garnered over five million players and more than 76,000 store ratings, surpassing even Beat Saber.
Echo VR’s Influence
David Neubelt, formerly of Ready at Dawn (developers of Echo VR), and Kerestell Smith, co-founder of Another Axiom, have cited Echo VR as a key inspiration. This influence is evident in the development of their new game.
Project A2: A New VR Experience
Gameplay Mechanics
“Project A2” will feature a zero-gravity environment where players control “robot champions”. It emphasizes physicality, with hand-based collision, sliding, and paddle-based momentum, using minimal controller inputs.
Social Interaction and Community
The game aims to foster a seamless social structure. Players can navigate between different “stations” to meet various communities and participate in events at large stadiums, either as competitors or spectators.
The VR Gaming Landscape
The Rise of Gorilla Tag Clones
Gorilla Tag’s success has led to a surge of clones in the App Lab, like Dungeon Tag and Monkey See Monkey Doo Doo. Some of these clones have received notable attention, indicating the game’s impact on the VR community.
Free-to-Play Success
The popularity of Gorilla Tag highlights the current trend in the gaming industry towards free-to-play models. This approach reduces barriers to entry, increasing player engagement and community growth.
Gameplay Experience
The Basics of Gorilla Tag
The core of Gorilla Tag is its simplicity. Players are immediately thrown into action with no tutorials, featuring game modes like tag and infection.
Immersive Gameplay
The game excels in creating an authentic gorilla-like experience, with gameplay heavily reliant on arm movements. This results in a physically demanding and exhilarating experience.
Online Community and Future Potential
With a thriving online community and constant player engagement, there is significant potential for expanding the game with new maps and modes.
Conclusion
Another Axiom’s Project A2 is poised to be a significant addition to the VR gaming world. By leveraging the success and gameplay styles of Gorilla Tag and Echo VR, it promises to deliver an engaging, community-focused VR experience. As the VR landscape continues to evolve, games like Project A2 are set to redefine what players expect from immersive gaming.
| Language | Interface | Full Audio | Subtitles |
|---|---|---|---|
| English | ✔ |
Minimum System Requirements:
| Specification | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Processor | Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system |
| OS | Windows 10 |
| Processor | Intel Core i5-4590 / AMD FX 8350 |
| Memory | 4 GB RAM |
| Graphics | NVIDIA GTX 970 / AMD Radeon R9 290 |
| Network | Broadband Internet connection |
| Storage | 140 MB available space |
| Sound Card | n/a |
| VR Support | SteamVR or Oculus PC |
| Additional Notes | Runs on a Quest; suitable for most computers capable of running Oculus or SteamVR that aren’t extremely low-end |
Zero Caliber VR
Very Positive (3,538 reviews)
Overview
“Zero Caliber VR” is an action-packed, story-driven virtual reality (VR) game that transports players to a dystopian future. Developed by XREAL Games, the game offers a unique blend of hyper-realistic weapon handling, physics-based interactions, and stunning graphics. This VR military shooter is set in a world ravaged by plastic pollution and scarce water resources, leading to a chaotic struggle for power and survival.
Gameplay and Mechanics
Immersive Combat System
Players experience the thrill of realistic combat, where physical movement, seeking cover, and tactical strategies are essential. The game demands an awareness of your surroundings, including the terrain and team coordination, to succeed in missions.
Realistic Weapon Handling
The weapons in “Zero Caliber VR” are meticulously modeled after real-life counterparts, with a focus on detail and authenticity. Each weapon features unique reloading methods, demanding players to learn and practice to master them. Explosive enthusiasts can even use grenades, adding an extra layer of realism to the combat experience.
Customizable Arsenal
The game caters to individual playing styles, offering a range of weapons and attachments for customization. Whether you prefer precise shots with a laser-sighted assault rifle or the raw power of a shotgun, “Zero Caliber VR” provides options for every playstyle, including the ability to combine favorite guns with preferred attachments on-the-fly.
Story and Setting
Dystopian Adventure
Set in a not-so-distant future, players embark on a narrative-driven adventure in a dystopian America. The storyline involves mercenaries, private armies, and religious zealots, including a fearsome cult, the “Tlalokii,” who worship the Aztec rain god Tlaloc. The player’s mission involves battling for survival and uncovering secrets that could change the fate of humanity.
Visuals and Atmosphere
Stunning Graphics and Realism
“Zero Caliber VR” emphasizes realistic graphics and atmospheric design. The open, explorable environments, coupled with immersive sound effects, enhance the overall experience, making players feel a part of the game world.
Game Availability and Reception
Steam Early Access and Community Response
The game is available on Steam for early access, providing one of the most realistic military FPS experiences for VR enthusiasts. It has garnered attention and excitement in the gaming community, especially on platforms like Reddit, where its unique features have sparked discussions about the future of FPS games in VR.
Multiplayer and Campaign Modes
Cooperative and PvP Gameplay
Players can tackle the campaign solo or team up with friends, enjoying a high level of gun control and customization. The game plans to introduce a PvP mode, further expanding its gameplay possibilities.
Conclusion
“Zero Caliber VR” by XREAL Games is not just a game; it’s an experience that blurs the line between virtual and reality. With its detailed weapon mechanics, gripping story, and breathtaking visuals, it offers a unique and immersive journey into a dystopian world, promising an unforgettable VR adventure.
| Language | Interface | Full Audio | Subtitles |
|---|---|---|---|
| English | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Minimum System Requirements:
| Specification | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Processor | Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system |
| OS | Windows 10 |
| Processor | Intel i5-4590 |
| Memory | 8 GB RAM |
| Graphics | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1070 |
| Storage | 20 GB available space |
| VR Support | SteamVR, Oculus Rift/Rift S, Meta Quest 1-2 (Sitting, Standing, or Room Scale) |
| Additional Notes | Requirements are for Early Access |
Recommended System Requirements:
| Specification | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Processor | Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system |
| OS | Windows 10 or 11 |
| Processor | Intel i7-4770 and above |
| Memory | 16 GB RAM |
| Graphics | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 20xx and above |
| Storage | 20 GB available space |
| VR Support | SteamVR, Oculus Rift/Rift S, Meta Quest 1-2 (Sitting, Standing, or Room Scale) |
| Additional Notes | Requirements are for Early Access |
