The Ultimate Ranked List of the Best VR Games By Genre

Video gaming is incredibly immersive, but virtual reality takes the experience to a whole new level. Mashing buttons and analog sticks don’t quite feel as exhilarating as seeing a sword in your hand moving in sync with your actions.

From heart-pounding action to spine-chilling horror, the best VR games transport you to mesmerizing dimensions and the most thrilling gameplay. Explore the top picks in each genre from the last decade. This list spans games available on PCVR, PlayStation VR 2 and Meta Quest, so put on your headset and let’s dive in. 

First Person Shooter: Half-Life: Alyx (2020) 

Step into the shoes of Alyx Vance as you navigate an eerily real world where every action engages all your senses. The game’s attention to detail is mind-blowing—from solving puzzles to shooting down monsters and giant critters, it feels natural and super immersive. 

How you interact with the environment, like reaching out to grab objects or peeking around corners, pulls you deeper into the gameplay. Overall, Half-Life: Alyx is one of the best VR games out there worth your while. 

Honorable Mentions 

• Hyper Dash (2021) 
• Vail (2022) 
• Zero Calibur (2018) 
• Bonelab (2022) 

Co-Op Shooter: After the Fall (2021) 

After the Fall plunges you into a post-apocalyptic world overrun by ferocious undead creatures. As you team up with friends or AI companions, the game transforms into a thrilling cooperative shooter where you depend on each other for survival. 

What sets the game apart is its seamless multiplayer integration and the heart-pounding rush of fighting hordes of enemies alongside your buddies. Get ready for intense, action-packed gameplay combined with the immersive VR environment that keeps you on the edge of your seat. 

Honorable Mentions 

• Arizona Sunshine 2 (2023) 
• Crossfire Sierra Squad (2023) 
• Population: One (2020) 
• Star Wars: Squadrons (2020) 

Horror Survival: Resident Evil 4 Remake

Yes, this list already contains zombie shooting gameplays, but RE 4 deserves its own category. After all, the game did garner a 10/10 score on IGN’s most recent review and is also highly rated on other platforms. 

Resident Evil 4 Remake in VR puts you right in the heart of survival horror, where every shadow hides unimaginable terror. The immersive experience of facing grotesque creatures up close and feeling the tension of each encounter unlocks new levels of fear. Are you brave enough? 

Honorable Mentions 

• Blair Witch VR (2021) 
• Cosmodread (2021) 
• The Exorcist: Legion (2017) 
• Affected: The Manor (2017)

Arena Combat: Blade and Sorcery (2018 Early Access) 

Fresh off its June 2024 full release, Blade and Sorcery catapults you into a visceral fight experience where you wield weapons and magic. As you engage in brutal battles against foes, the game’s physics-based combat system allows unparalleled freedom and creativity in dispatching your enemies.

The thrill of facing off against stone behemoths and armor-clad warriors, coupled with advanced weapon handling and combat mechanics, makes for an adrenaline-pumping experience like no other. Prepare to unleash your inner warrior. 

Honorable Mentions 

• Battle Talent (2023) 
• Hellsplit Arena (2019) 
• Gorn (2017) 
• Until You Fall (2019) 

RPG: Asgard’s Wrath (2019) and Asgard’s Wrath 2 (2023)

Set in the rich world of Norse mythology, Asgard’s Wrath invites you to embark on an epic journey fraught with intricate challenges. The game seamlessly blends action-packed combat and deep storytelling elements as you explore various realms as a god or mortal hero. 

Following the billowing success of the first installment, Asgard’s Wrath 2 received even more acclaim for elevating the narrative and gameplay. The depth of character progression, diverse combat styles and the ability to shape the fate of realms make both titles the best VR games in the RPG genre. 

Honorable Mentions 

• Zenith: The Last City (2022) 
• The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (2017) 
• A Township Tale (2018) 
• Orbus VR Reborn (2019)

Action Adventure: Assassins Creed Nexus (2023) 

In Assassin’s Creed Nexus, you bring to life legendary characters Ezio Auditore da Firenze, Kassandra and Connor Kenway in a groundbreaking first-person adventure. The stakes are high as you relive the memories of these master assassins to thwart Abstergo’s sinister plans time and again. 

Made for Meta’s exclusive headset lineup, brace for a VR experience where you drift seamlessly between reality and the Animus-generated sceneries unfolding before you. Your actions shape the fate of worlds and civilizations, so take your stand against the Templar threat and wear the mantle of these heroes with pride. 

Honorable Mentions 

• Vader Immortal (2019) 
• Horizon Call of the Mountain (2023) 
• Hubris (2022) 
• No Man’s Sky (2018)

Sim Games: MS Flight Sim (2020) 

Step into the pilot’s seat and soar through incredibly detailed and realistic environments. From the cockpit controls to the dynamic weather system, every aspect is designed to immerse you in aviation like never before.

Whether you’re a seasoned pilot or new to flight simulation, the game offers an authentic and breathtaking flying experience. Plus, regular yearly updates ensure the appeal of exploring the skies remains fresh and more immersive than ever. 

Honorable Mentions 

• VTOL (2017 Early Access) 
• Kayak VR: Mirage (2022) 
• Gran Turismo 7 (2022) 
• Walkabout Mini Golf VR (2020)

What Is the Number 1 VR game?

CNET and TheGamer both declare Half-Life: Alyx the best VR game. If it’s good enough for these guys, it’s certainly good enough for us. Of course, like any subjective ranking, it comes down to your preferences. The important thing is that you enjoy your gaming experience. 

Are Games in VR Free?

VR platforms typically offer a mix of free and paid games, allowing you to choose from a range of titles based on your preferences and budget. While most of the good titles come with a price tag, there are also some hidden gems among the best free VR games available. These titles offer a great way to experience VR gaming without any upfront costs — though expect limited gameplay or access. 

What Is the Most Played VR Game Right Now?

SteamDB data shows War Thunder as the most-played VR game, with nearly 80,000 players at the time of writing. Based on all-time chart-topping, No Man’s Sky takes the title with an impressive 212,613 peak over the last eight years. 

Experience the Best VR Games 

The impact of VR technology on the gaming industry continues to be profound, transforming how you engage with virtual worlds and pushing the boundaries of innovation. Looking forward, the future of VR gaming holds exciting possibilities driven by enhanced realism, interactivity and accessibility.