Been eyeing a VR headset of late? Already have one but don’t know which apps to try? Don’t worry, because we’ve got you covered. There are a ton of great virtual reality apps and games in the market today. And while a lot of them are quite decent, not every one of them is worth your time. To save you the trouble of going through poor VR experiences, we’ve compiled a list of the best VR apps and games you should try right now, with options across a variety of genres so that all of you find something that catches your fancy.
Note: Some of the apps on this list contain flashing lights and images which might trigger seizures, nausea, or headaches for sensitive people. Prices mentioned in the article are for the Android versions of the apps, wherever applicable, pricing on other platforms may vary.
Best Virtual Reality Apps and Experiences You Should Try
To make things easier to find, we have divided this article into three sections. The first section deals with VR experiences while the next two deal with VR games. We have created a separate section for horror VR games as we know many people specifically look for those games. You can click on the links below to quickly move to the section that you want.
Best VR Experiences in 2020
For those of you looking for some mind-blowing VR experiences, we’ve compiled a list of VR based experiences that featuring stunning videos that will transport you to a whole new realm. You can explore different 3D environments right from the comfort of your couch and believe me when I say, some of these experiences are just magical.
1. Within
Within is one of the best apps to begin your journey in virtual reality as it offers users a single platform through which they can discover great VR content from creators around the world. The app features immersive VR videos spanning across a variety of genres, from fictional tales to serious documentaries. The experimental section on the app is home to some fun, trippy videos which will transport you to another dimension. If you’re someone who enjoys great video content, then I’m pretty sure you’ll find yourself spending increasing amounts of time on Within. It’s definitely one of the best VR experiences out there.
Supported platforms: Android (Google Daydream), iOS, Windows, Oculus, PlayStation VR, HTC Vive
Price: Free
Download Within (Free)
2. BBC Earth: Life in VR
If you’re looking for something a bit more informative, one of the best VR apps you should definitely check out is BBC Earth: Life in VR. It’s a Google Play Award winning app that allows users to experience the natural world in VR. The cartoonish animation makes the app perfect for young kids who can use it to learn a lot about life around them. The app focuses on the fauna round the Californian coast, delving to a microscopic level to help you discover organisms that you’ve never seen before and it even allows you to dive deep into the ocean alongside a Sperm Whale to get closer to the gargantuan creature than you’ve ever been before.
Supported platforms: Google Daydream exclusive
Price: Free
Download BBC Earth: Life in VR (Free)
3. InCell VR
One of the best virtual reality apps for educational purposes – InCell VR – has been designed to teach you how the human body works by taking you down to the cellular level and helping you understand just what goes on inside the building blocks of our body. In order to make the experience a bit more interesting for you, the app gamifies the biology with an action/racing game thrown into the mix. The stunning visuals, along with the gaming aspect of the app, really go a long way in ensuring that you learn some interesting things about cells and their components.
Supported platforms: Google Cardboard/Daydream, iOS, Samsung Gear VR, Windows, HTC Vive, Oculus
Price: Free
Download InCell VR (Free)
4. Horizons
Not really into all the educational content? Then you should probably try Horizons, a visual masterpiece which takes you an a series of interactive journeys based on the music of renowned producer Bonobo. The app allows you to control the music, and the music, in turn, controls the virtual world in front of your eyes. The psychedelic experience is definitely worth checking out and I’m sure that the visuals, combined with the spatial sound, will amaze you. If you’re a fan of Bonobo’s work, then you shouldn’t think twice before downloading this app.
Supported platforms: Google Daydream
Price: Free
Download Horizons (Free)
5. Star Chart
Take off from Earth and explore the solar system and the wide expanse of space beyond with Star Chart VR – a real-time space simulation which gives you accurate locations of the celestial bodies you can see from Earth. Get up close to the Sun or drift far away to the cold, deep space around Pluto; count Saturn’s rings or view thousands of the most visible stars in the night sky; you can do it all with Star Chart. It’s definitely one of the best immersive apps I’ve tried till date and I especially like the part where the app allows you to experience the most memorable moments of human space exploration, something you might have just seen on TV or YouTube up until now.
Supported platforms: Android (Google Daydream/Google Cardboard), Windows, iOS, macOS, Xbox 360, Oculus
Price: $4.99
Download Star Chart ($4.99)
6. Google Earth VR
Google recently updated its Earth VR app with numerous new landmarks and popular places across the globe. It now lets you experience a whole new world through VR. You can go pretty much anywhere and experience places in 3D. The best part is that Google Earth VR has got support for Street View which means you can now navigate around cities and monuments as if you are present there. And that is not all, Google Earth VR can render any 2D object on our planet in 3D. Basically, with this feature, your experience will not just be limited to a few popular places, but you can also pinpoint your home and other places and experience the view in 3D.
Not to mention, you can go back in time and visit places from Google Earth’s repository. Apart from that, there is also an option for flying which I am sure you are going to enjoy. Having said that, keep in mind, Google Earth VR is only available on Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, and Windows computers.
Supported platforms: HTC Vive, Oculus Rift, Windows
Price: Free
Download Google Earth VR (Free)
7. VR Media and Movie Apps – Netflix VR / YouTube VR / Hulu VR
If you love watching movies you will certainly appreciate these VR apps which allow you to experience your favorite movies in a virtual environment. There are main popular media streaming services which bring their virtual reality apps to give you the best movie-watching experience. Some of the prominent streaming services which support VR experience include Netflix, YouTube, Hulu, sling TV, Plex VR, and more.
My favorite media streaming VR apps are Netflix VR and YouTube VR as thats where I spent most of my time on. You can find these VR apps by simply searching for them in the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Some of these apps also support Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, and other VR platforms. Lastly, while these apps are free to download and use, you will need to have a paid account with the service (where it is required) to stream media.
Supported platforms: Google Cardboard, Google Daydream, HTC Vive, Oculus Rift and more.
Price: None of the streaming service charge extra for VR
Download: Netflix VR (free), YouTube VR (free), Hulu VR (free), Sling TV VR (free), Plex VR (free)
8. Dream Vision VR Apps
Dream Vision is a company which makes a ton of VR apps and games. Made by Tzumi Electronics, Dream Vision VR aims to enhance your augmented and virtual reality universe with a collection of the best VR apps, videos, and image content available. Under the brand name Dream360, the company has released tons of VR and AR apps.
Some of the famous Dream360 VR apps include Romans From Mars 360, VR Flight Simulator, VR Noir, VR Horror World, VR Hungry Shark Cage, Inception: VR & 360 Videos, and more. The first VR app on this list “Within” is also made by Dream Vision apps. All these apps are available for both iOS and Android platforms and you can check them all out by clicking on the link below.
Supported platforms: Android and iOS
Price: Free
Download: Free
9. NYT VR
Developed by New York Times, NYT VR takes you up and close to riveting stories captured by the publications journalists. If you’re looking to stay connected and up to date with everything that’s happening around the world, but don’t just want to read news to get that information, then you should definitely try out NYT VR. The app has some amazing content on offer and due to the fact that it immerses you and takes you to ground zero, the experience and the information that you gain about a particular topic are unmatched. Quick tip, download the videos before you play them or you might encounter a black screen if your internet connection isn’t stable.
Supported platforms: Android (Google Daydream/Google Cardboard), iOS, Samsung Gear VR
Price: Free
Download NYT VR (Free)
10. Fulldive VR
Fulldive VR is sort of a social media app for virtual reality which hosts 100 percent user generated content that you can watch on your VR headset. Being a social platform, the app allows you to add friends from around the world and experience their content. You can even share VR content that you created on the platform and you can rest assured that it will reach VR enthusiasts worldwide. Other social features include reactions, comments and sharing, which means that the VR content that you upload on the app sure has a strong chance of going viral. You can even discover other great VR apps and games on the Fulldive, which is an added bonus.
Supported platforms: Android (Google Daydream/Google Cardboard), iOS
Price: Free
Download Fulldive VR (Free)
Best VR Games in 2020
In case you’re more interested in an interactive experience, however, you should definitely check out the following VR apps and games. These 3D apps and games provide an interactive experience like no other, with some even giving you the opportunity to play with friends even when you have a single VR headset between you. We have included the best apps and games that offer an immersive experience here and I’m sure you’ll find something great that will help you make good use of your VR headset.
1. Mekorama VR
Mekorama is a fairly popular puzzle game and has featured on many of our best Android games lists, so when I found out that there was a VR version as well, I didn’t think twice before getting it on my phone. For those who haven’t played Mekorama before, it’s a three dimensional puzzle game in which you have to control a cute robot and take him from point A to point B, overcoming tricky obstacles all along the way. The VR version of Mekorama really does justice to the 3D puzzle as it allows you to view the diorama from any angle in full virtual reality.
It looks really beautiful, and controlling the robot in VR is just a really fun experience, but unfortunately there’s no multiplayer angle to the game. If puzzle games are your jam, Mekorama VR is definitely one of the best VR apps you’ll find right now. However, the game is only available for Google’s Daydream platform, so unless you have a Daydream ready phone, and a Daydream headset, you’ll not be able to play it.
Supported platforms: Google Daydream
Price: $3.99
Download Mekorama VR ($3.99)
2. Keep Talking & Nobody Explodes
One of the best VR games I’ve tried in a while is “Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes.” In case you’re hanging out with a bunch of friends, but have just a single VR headset between you guys, then you should definitely try out Keep Talking & Nobody Explodes – an engaging puzzle game in which you and your friends have to think fast or all of you risk blowing up. The game’s premise is quite simple to understand, with one player trapped in a virtual room with a ticking time bomb, and the others giving instructions on how they can diffuse the bomb. However, the game in itself is quite tricky as each new bomb is unique and the bomb defusal manual doesn’t really give you the easiest directions. Try it out at your next get together, I’m sure you’ll have a ton of fun.
Supported platforms: Android (Google Daydream), iOS, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Windows, macOS, Linux, Oculus, HTC Vive
Price: $9.99
Download Keep Talking & Nobody Explodes ($9.99)
3. Beat Saber
Beat Saber is one of the most popular VR games that you can play right now. In fact, the game was awarded the best VR game of the year on Steam in 2019. It’s a highly immersive game where you have to use your sabers to slash the music beats as they come flying at you, from right, left and center. The game is pretty simple that way, but as I said, with the right music beat and unique visual effects, you are taken to a futuristic world where you start enjoying the game thoroughly. The game is simple and easy to play in the beginning, but once you level up, you need to be fast and precise while slashing the music beats.
Many consider Beat Saber as the best game for a workout as it makes you dance in rapid motion while swinging and slashing the music beats. I would say, if you are new to VR games then you should definitely start with Beat Saber. You just can’t afford to miss this game.
Supported platforms: HTC Vive, Oculus Rift, Windows, Valve Index
Price: $29.99
Download Beat Saber ($29.99)
4. VR XRacer
If you want to play a solid VR racing game on your smartphone — either Android or iOS — 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 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. The best part about VR XRacer is that it’s compatible with Google Cardboard. So, you don’t need an expensive VR headset to get started with VR games. All in all, if you want to play an action-packed VR game on your smartphone then VR XRacer is highly recommended.
Supported platforms: Android (Google Daydream/Google Cardboard), iOS
Price: Free
Download VR XRacer (Android / iOS)
5. Fractal Combat X
Fractal Combat X is another powerful VR game that features top-notch graphics and brings a thrilling flight combat game for 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. And just like other VR games for smartphones, Fractal Combat X is also compatible with Google Cardboard and similar visors so that is great. 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. You should definitely give it a shot.
Supported platforms: Android (Google Daydream/Google Cardboard), iOS
Price: $1.99 on Android, Free on iOS
Download Fractal Combat X (Android / iOS)
6. Romans from Mars 360
Romans from Mars 360 is a fun new game developed by Majesco which has quickly gained popularity because of its immersive gameplay. The game is available on both smartphones and dedicated VR headsets so that is awesome. In this game, you will have to protect Earth from being overrun by Romans from Mars. You can use your crossbow and many powers like Ice, Fire, and Lightning to defeat your enemies. Further, you will have to face the Roman soldiers and protect the castle to stop the destruction of Earth. Overall, Romans from Mars 360 is a colorful cartoon game set in a VR world and anyone who is new to VR games would love the immersive nature of the game. So what are you waiting for? Go ahead and use your Google Cardboard or VR headset to play this amazing game using your smartphone.
Supported platforms: Android (Google Daydream/Google Cardboard), iOS, HTC Vive, Oculus Rift, Valve Index
Price: Free
Download Romans from Mars 360 (Android / iOS / Steam)
7. Thumper
Do music based games catch your fancy? Then you should consider trying out Thumper – a rhythm based action game in which you play as a space beetle, running down an endless psychedelic track, trying its best to confront the maniacal giant head from the future. Thumper offers nine different levels of rhythm hell with epic boss battles, simple controls, along with visuals and sounds that will definitely give you a sensory overload. It goes without saying that people who’re susceptible to seizures should stay away from this game as it’s full of flashing lights and images.
Supported platforms: iOS, Windows, Oculus, HTC Vive
Price: $19.99
Download Thumper ($19.99)
8. Virtual Virtual Reality
Another great VR game that has been honored by a Google Play Award for the best VR experience – Virtual Virtual Reality – is also a must try for all of you VR fans out there. As the name suggests, Virtual Virtual Reality puts you in a virtual world where you start as a new worker for Activitude – a sci-fi facility that provides services to AI clients. But that’s not all, there are multiple virtual worlds within this virtual world in which there are a number of mini games that you can play. I won’t spoil the fun for you by giving you all of the details, you really need to try the game to truly experience virtual virtual reality or just too much virtual reality.
Supported platforms: Google Daydream
Price: $8.99
Download Virtual Virtual Reality ($8.99)
9. Deep Space Battle
Looking for something a bit more simple? Perhaps you should give Deep Space Battle a shot. A fun VR game in which 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.
Supported platforms: Google Cardboard
Price: Free
Download Deep Space Battle (Free)
10. Rez Infinite
Another VR game that you should definitely try, Rez Infinite is an action packed shooter with incredible environments that you, as a hacker, have to traverse. The game has an otherworldly premise in which you have to travel through cyberspace filled with firewalls, viruses and other obstacles to jumpstart an AI called Eden that has fallen into a vegetative state. Eden is the core of Project-K, a system designed to curb the rising crime rates in the real world. So your failure to reach Eden and get it back up and running will have some serious consequences.
Supported platforms: Android (Google Daydream), PlayStation VR, Oculus, HTC Vive, Windows
Price: Free with in-game purchases
Download Rez Infinite (Free, with in-app purchases)
11. Eclipse: Edge of Light
Explore an alien landscape with Eclipse: Edge of Light, a VR adventure game in which you’re crash landed on an alien planet armed with a powerful relic – the Artifact – that helps you interact with ancient technology and gives you superpowers. Eclipse: Edge of Light has some immersive visuals that will surely blow you away. On top of that, the game makes excellent use of the Daydream controller which really enhances the gameplay aspect of it, you can move around, interact with objects and complete puzzles to progress the storyline.
Supported platforms: Android (Google Daydream), Oculus, Samsung Gear VR
Price: $8.99
Download Eclipse: Edge of Light ($8.99)
12. Twilight Pioneers
Have you ever wondered if you would experience a full-scale RPG in VR? Well, you can with Twilight Pioneers – a first-person action RPG based in a fantasy world full of magic. The game offers an immersive VR experience, making good use of the Daydream controller to give free movement to the players. You can wield a variety of different weapons and embark on a thrilling quest filled with exploration, skirmishes and epic boss battles. It’s like playing World of Warcraft in first-person. Now, I’m sure some of you are going to love that.
Supported platforms: Android (Google Daydream)
Price: Free
Download Twilight Pioneers (Free)
Best Horror and Scary VR Games in 2020
One of the most popular VR games genres is Horror. If you are one of those Gamers who like to experience bone-chilling adventure, you must play these scary horror VR games.
1. The Exorcist: Legion VR
If you are someone who considers themselves bold, fearless, and daring then you should play this game and find out how nerveless you really are. Created by the horror maestro William Peter Blatty and based on the academy-award winning world, “The Exorcist: Legion VR” will test your mental strength to its extreme. The game is chapterized where each chapter features a new demonic entity which will test your courage.
This game without a doubt delivers one of the best if not the best horror experiences you will ever have. The graphics are scary, the music is ominous, and the demons are well, demonic as hell. The game is available for HTC Vive and Oculus Rift only, so keep that in mind. Finally, this game is not for light-hearted people so if you scare easily, be warned!
Supported platforms: HTC Vive and Oculus Rift
Price: $4.99 for Chapter 1
Download The Exorcist: Legion VR – Chapter 1 ($4.99)
2. House of Terror: Valerie’s Revenge (VR)
House of Terror: Valerie’s Revenge is a Virtual Reality game in which gamers have to search through dark environments full of traps and monsters. In the game, you will have to solve puzzles, collect clues, and solve the riddles to advance. You will have to do this while keeping away from the monsters and ghouls so that you are not caught.
The ominous music combined with dark environments full of jump scares will surely get on your nerves. If you love horror games, then there is no better way to experience them in VR. Do note that you will need Bluetooth joysticks to play this game. One thing that I love about this game is that it is compatible with Google Cardboard which means you don’t have to buy a costly VR headset to play it.
Supported platforms: Android (Google Daydream/Google Cardboard), iOS
Price: Free
Download House of Terror: Valerie’s Revenge (Android / iOS)
3. Sisters
Another great VR horror game is the “Sisters” which will always keep you one the edge of your proverbial seat. Sisters is a VR ghost story in which you will have to spend a night alone in the house to find out what happened to yout aunt. The night is long and full of terrors and you will discover that you are not so alone after all. Be careful as there’s something in the house that doesn’t want you there.
The game has been designed specifically for mobile VR experience and works with Google Cardboard and other VR headsets. It features head tracking as it allows you to look around in the 360-degree scary digitally painted environment. The environment is also interactive that means it will respond to what you are looking at. Sisters might not be in the list of best VR games out there, however, if you are looking for a scary VR adventure, it will serve the purpose just fine.
Supported platforms: Android (Google Daydream/Google Cardboard), iOS
Price: Free, in-app purchases
Download Sisters (Android / iOS)
Check Out Best VR Apps and Enjoy Your VR Headset
Did any of these aforementioned experiences and immersive apps grab your attention? Have you tried any other VR app that you think should be included on this list? Do let us know in the comments section below. And if, in case, you try out one of the listed experiences, make sure you share which experience you liked the most. In my time testing out these apps, I really liked the Tokyo Light Odyssey and La Fuga videos in the experimental section on Within, you should definitely check those out on your VR headset.
