Top VR Games to Enjoy with Family This Holiday Season

Pack your VR headset and get ready to dazzle your family and friends this holiday season. There’s an impressive selection of VR games waiting to wow first-time users, regardless of their age.

Even though consumer VR headsets have been around for nearly a decade, many people still haven’t had the chance to experience the magic—at least not with the fantastic games available on today’s modern headsets. When introducing VR to a diverse group, it’s usually best to avoid games that have complex stories or require extensive movement controls. And don’t forget to project what you’re seeing on a monitor or TV so everyone can enjoy the spectacle!

### Walkabout Mini Golf

Walkabout Mini Golf is easy to jump into. You’ll find yourself navigating through incredible mini-golf courses inspired by places like Venice, Italy, and collaborations with iconic creators like Wallace and Gromit, MYST, and Meow Wolf. Everyone can join the fun, as the putters adjust to different heights, making it perfect for kids and adults alike. Plus, with crossplay on the mobile ‘Pocket Edition’, you can enjoy local multiplayer action.

Available on: Quest, PSVR 2, Pico, SteamVR

### OhShape

Based on the Japanese show ‘Hole in the Wall’, OhShape challenges players to dance and dodge through walls in sync with the music. It’s super easy to start and guarantees lots of laughs as everyone tries to squeeze through the increasingly complex shapes.

Available on: Quest, SteamVR

### Beat Saber

Beat Saber is a perennial favorite, and it’s easy to see why. This rhythm game, where you slash blocks to the beat, is incredibly addictive and straightforward enough for VR newbies, yet offers enough challenge to appeal to players of all skill levels. Just be sure to keep play sessions to around 5 to 15 minutes to allow for retries and errors.

Available on: Quest, PSVR 2, SteamVR

### Pistol Whip

Pistol Whip offers an adrenaline rush similar to Beat Saber, but with bullets rather than blades. Inspired by action movies like John Wick, it features stylish, minimal violence that shouldn’t be too off-putting, making it great for older children, teens, and adults.

Available on: Quest, PSVR 2, SteamVR

### Tentacular

Tentacular is endearingly quirky. You play as a massive, yet benevolent tentacled creature trying to figure out its world, solving puzzles, and occasionally causing chaos. While it may not be your first pick for a big group, it’s sure to entertain puzzle lovers.

Available on: Quest, PSVR 2, SteamVR

### Blaston

Blaston is a free-to-play, room-scale duel game where you face off against opponents using an array of weapons. It’s exciting for seasoned players and supports quick matches against AI, perfect for smaller gatherings.

Available on: Quest, Pico, SteamVR

### Puzzling Places

Puzzling Places immerses you in the tranquility of virtual jigsaw puzzles, showcasing beautiful miniatures of global landmarks. This game is ideal for those who prefer a calming VR experience, with mixed reality options enhancing its appeal on Quest.

Available on: Quest, PSVR 2

### Superhot VR

Superhot VR remains a timeless classic, delivering a blend of tactical combat and time manipulation. The game’s unique mechanics, where time moves only when you do, provide intense strategy and satisfaction.

Available on: Quest, PSVR 1, SteamVR

### Wooorld

Wooorld offers a VR rendition akin to Google Earth, allowing you to explore in 360-degree views or get a bird’s-eye view of cities and landscapes. It’s a nostalgic journey for those wanting to revisit cherished locations and spark meaningful conversations.

Available on: Quest

### Racket NX

Racket NX might just be the antidote to holiday overindulgence. This game challenges you to rack up combos and points in a dome-shaped arena, appealing to players of all ages. It’s even more exciting when playing competitively with friends if you have multiple VR headsets.

Available on: Quest, SteamVR

### Angry Birds VR: Isle of Pigs

Angry Birds makes a seamless transition into VR, offering easy gameplay that everyone knows and loves. It’s perfect for quick rounds and friendly competition as players aim to topple the pesky pigs.

Available on: Quest, PSVR 2, SteamVR

### I Expect You to Die Trilogy

These escape room games are both engaging and entertaining, perfect for groups to watch as players attempt to outwit various deadly traps. These games are especially entertaining for younger audiences.

Available on: Quest, SteamVR

### Vader Immortal – Episode 1

For Star Wars fans, Vader Immortal offers an immersive journey into the Force. While it’s best experienced solo, it’s a thrill for any young Jedi-in-training. Episode one is especially accessible, providing a short yet impressive adventure.

Available on: Quest

### Space Pirate Trainer

This wave shooter is perfect for gamers new to VR, offering a visually stunning and straightforward experience. It’s a great showcase of VR technology without requiring a lengthy tutorial.

Available on: Quest, SteamVR

### Bigscreen Beta

Bigscreen Beta transforms your VR headset into a private theater. It’s not a game, but it’s a fantastic way to showcase what VR can do beyond gaming. Perfect for casual viewers or those interested in a social yet solitary experience.

Available on: Quest, SteamVR

### Don’t Miss

Demeo, Gran Turismo 7 (PSVR 2), Half-Life: Alyx (PC VR), and the Moss series offer richer, more immersive experiences but require a bit more setup and patience. They’re perfect for gamers willing to dive deeper and invest a bit more time.

In short, VR has something for everyone this holiday season, whether it’s quick, casual fun or a deep dive into virtual adventures. So, charge up your headsets and get ready for some unforgettable holiday gaming sessions!