Google Cardboard might not bring the advanced virtual reality prowess that other VR devices like Oculus Quest and HTC Vive boast of but its affordable nature has brought the VR tech to the masses. Presently, Google Cardboard is more of an entertainment device and developers have also brought games that entertain you while letting you experience the magic of VR. There are various games available on the Play Store and App Store aimed at Google Cardboard. So here we have curated the best Google Cardboard games for Android and iOS that you should play in 2020.
Best Google Cardboard Games for Android and iOS
Here, we have mentioned the best Google Cardboard games for both Android and iOS. You can take a quick look at the list below and click on the link to move to the corresponding games.
Best VR Games for Google Cardboard
1. VR XRacer
If you are looking for a solid VR racing game to play on your smartphone with Google Cardboard then VR XRacer is the game you should pick. It’s a high-octane aero racing game with a great story and incredible sound effects. Add that to a Virtual Reality environment and you get intense gameplay filled with stunning 3D visuals.
The game starts in a Star Wars spaceship where your ship is attacked and you step up with missiles and jet to fight the evil. The airway is full of obstacles and you can fall down anytime on the ground if you are not careful. Simply put, you don’t need an expensive VR headset to get started with VR games and VR XRacer is the game you should start your VR gaming journey with.
Install: Android, iOS (Free, offers in-app purchases)
2. Fractal Combat X
Fractal Combat X is another powerful VR game that is compatible with Google Cardboard. It features top-notch graphics and brings a thrilling flight combat game on both Android and iOS smartphones. The game is packed with intense 3D visuals and has well-designed fractal landscapes that you are going to appreciate while playing the game in your VR headset.
The game has several missions and you need to use your aerial combat skills intelligently to come top out of it. The best part about Fractal Combat X is that it supports most of the game controllers that follow the HID protocol. I would say if you want an immersive VR gaming experience with gamepad support then Fractal Combat X stands tall on all counts.
Install: Android ($1.99), iOS (Free, offers in-app purchases)
3. Deep Space Battle
Looking for something a bit more simple? Perhaps you should give Deep Space Battle a shot. A fun VR game that is compatible with Google Cardboard. It lets you control a spaceship deep in space and defend against the invasion of the Shadow Fleet. It does sound quite easy, but the game can be really challenging to play as you have to control the movements of the ship with your head.
You have a variety of ships you can choose from to take down the Shadow Fleet and the best part is that everything is completely free, without any ads. Try out Deep Space Battle if you’re looking for a casual and immersive game that you can play whenever you’ve got a couple of minutes to kill.
Install: Android (Free)
4. InMind 2
While InMind was a fun sci-fi VR game, a lot of users complained about it being too short and lacking any levels except for the one where you destroyed neurons. Well, InMind 2 is here to curb those blues if you’re craving some adventure by allowing you to play as John and follow the process of him becoming an adult.
You will make all decisions, help shape John’s human brain by learning the chemistry of emotions, managing his reactions, and ultimately being in control of John’s destiny. In tandem, InMind 2 is one of the best Google Cardboard games and you should definitely give it a try.
Install: Android, iOS (Free, offers in-app purchases)
5. Caaaaardboard!
If you have played Aaaaa! on your PC, you should know how much fun Caaaaardboard! is. The virtual reality game requires you to dive off of buildings in Boston, Massachusetts while performing stunts, gather points, spray paint, and more.
The game certainly brings a superb VR experience and if you are scared of heights, this should definitely help you out. I would rank this game among the best Google Cardboard games for Android.
Install: Android ($1.99)
6. House of Terror VR
If you’re looking for a truly terrifying point-and-click horror game to play on your Google Cardboard, then House of Terror is said to be the best one out there. You find yourself in an unknown, abandoned house in this game and you need to navigate out of the same by searching for clues and solving puzzles – all while saving yourself from being caught by a hoard of monsters and ghosts.
Note: Your cardboard VR headset needs to have a button to play this title. You can also connect a Bluetooth wireless controller.
7. Hidden Temple
Hidden Temple is yet another enjoyable point-and-click adventure VR game that strives to make you rack your brain to collect and combine items in an attempt to solve tricky riddles and discover buried secrets in the Hidden Temple.
It’s a fairly simplistic game and you can leisurely play it on your own accord. The best part is that Hidden Temple is available on both Android and iOS so you can play this awesome VR Cardboard game across different ecosystems.
8. Minos Starfighter VR
Minos Starfighter VR is one of the most detailed VR experiences you will come across. The game features you piloting a small space fighter to fight a space battle against enemies. You will have to move your head to move around the spaceship and use the magnet button to trigger laser shots.
Minos Starfighter VR includes different space environments, detailed space ships, upgrades, and more. Moreover, the game features AAA graphics and 3D positional audio for the best VR experience on Google Cardboard.
Install: Android ($0.99)
9. Final Kick VR
Had enough with puzzles, zombies, and space battles, right? Well, if you are a soccer fan like me then you’ve got to try out the Final Kick VR game on your Google Cardboard. This VR Cardboard game puts you at the center of the thrill of a penalty shootout, where you will take turns to first take the shot and score.
And then dons the gloves (which hover in the air) to prevent the computer from scoring one over you. Simply put, Final Kick VR is one of the best Google Cardboard games on iOS and you must check it out.
Install: iOS (Free, offers in-app purchases)
10. Zombie Shooter
Feel like killing a lot of zombies? Well, Zombie Shooter lets you do the deed in virtual reality. The gameplay includes a post-apocalyptic subway filled with mutants and zombies. You just have to aim at zombies and the game auto shoots them. It’s very simple and that does go against the game but if you like to pass some time shooting zombies, you can give it a try.
Note: Zombie Shooter only lets you play to a certain extent and to move further you will have to make an in-app purchase.
Install: Android, iOS (Free, offers in-app purchases)
Bonus: Trinus Cardboard VR
This app allows you to play game titles, like GTA and Minecraft, among others using the sensors on your device or a wireless gamepad, whichever you prefer. Considering its versatile utility, Trinus seems one of the best Google Cardboard games for Android smartphones.
Install: Android (Free, Paid version for $9.99)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can You Play Games on Google Cardboard?
Yes, you can definitely play games using Google Cardboard. We have mentioned the top VR Cardboard games for Android and iOS in this article so go through the list to find Cardboard-compatible games.
Q. What are the Best Google Cardboard Apps?
Some of the best Google Cardboard apps are Fulldive, Within, Google Cardboard, VR Space, and more. Click on the linked article to find them all.
Q. How Good is Google Cardboard?
Google Cardboard was started with an objective to bring VR content on a low-cost system. It did push the envelope and Google brought the expensive Google Daydream headset but, as we know, Google has killed Daydream.
So currently, in the Android ecosystem, we have Google Cardboard and it works decently well. It’s certainly not in the same league as Oculus Quest and HTC Vive but does the job sufficiently well for low-end VR content.
Q. What Can You Use Google Cardboard For?
You can use Google Cardboard for VR experiences such as gaming, exploring the world and beyond, visit popular places virtually, and much more.
Q. Is Google Cardboard Discontinued?
No, Google Cardboard is not discontinued. However, the improved and expensive version of Cardboard which was called Google Daydream has been discontinued by Google.
Q. Is VR Bad for Eyes?
Long usage of Google Cardboard is definitely not recommended. It can cause eye strain and even headaches due to double vision.
Q. What Phones Work with Google Cardboard?
Almost all smartphones support Google Cardboard– from the cheapest Android devices to the expensive iPhones. Google Cardboard takes advantage of the built-in magnetometer which is found in almost all smartphones so be assured that your smartphone will work with Google Cardboard.
Play the Best VR Cardboard Games on Android and iOS
Honestly, these Google Cardboard games are the best in 2020 and if you are expecting PC or console-level games, you will be disappointed. But if you don’t mind some harmless fun and keep your expectations in check, these games might pleasantly surprise you. So, check them out, and do let us know your Google Cardboard VR gaming experience. We love to hear from you!
Sagnik Das Gupta
