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Virtually Reality is a “computer-generated simulation of a three-dimensional image or environment that can be interacted with in a seemingly real or physical way. This is done by “using special electronic equipment, such as a helmet with a screen inside or gloves fitted with sensors.” In other words, it’s a system that allows players to experience entertainment through headsets that make them feel like they are part of the virtual world. Though it may seem like this system is only possible with modern-day technology, VR has been around for a while. Most infamously was Nintendo’s first attempt at a VR console, the Virtual Boy which flopped.

Yet today we find ourselves with more advanced systems such as the HTC Vive, the Playstation VR, the Valve Index, and the main subject of this article, The Oculus Quest 2 by Facebook.

The Oculus Quest 2 came out on October 13th, 2020 as a successor to the Oculus Quest. Based on my experience with the Oculus Quest 2, here are the Pros and Cons with  Facebook’s new headset.

Pros:

• It’s an all-in-one console, no wires or computers needed
• It plays extremely well and it detects your movement very accurately
• It cheap compare to its competitors with a 64gb version going for $299 and a 256gb version going for $399
• Can play games like Beat Saber and the Vader Immortal series

Cons:

• It can’t play games like Medal of Honor: Above and Beyond or Asgadians Wrath which can be played on the Oculus Rift S (though you can buy a link cable to hook up to your pc for $80)
• The battery runs out very quickly
• Some of the best games a little pricey
• It forces you to make a Facebook account

Now that you’re aware of the pros and cons of plugging in with the new Oculus Quest, here are some titles to consider for your ventures into VR. 

Superhot VR: 

Based on the 2016 first-person shooter game “Superhot,” Superhot VR is an action/first-person shooter in which you go through a series of levels eliminating all targets. But here’s the catch, time only moves when you move. This gimmick gives players a true Matrix-like experience. Superhot VR is one of the first games I played on the Oculus Quest 2 and it didn’t disappoint. Though I would argue that the game may be a little too short, it makes up for it with extra content.

Job Simulator: 

Job Simulator is a game released in 2016 and I recommend it for people who just got into VR. The game is a comical simulation of 4 different jobs, Chef, Office Worker, Store Clerk, and Auto Repair man. The game gives you a bunch of tasks for each job but allows you to roam free through your work environment, allowing you to do some crazy stuff while being monitored by AI pals.

Beat Saber:

Possibly one of the best games for VR, Beat Saber is a perfect example of the phrase “less is more.” The game is very simple. It’s a rhythm based game in which you hold lightsaber-like swords to play along with the beat of the music. In order to match with the song you must slice through cubes as directed while dodging obstacles coming straight for. It’s great soundtrack, addictive gameplay and heart-pumping movement makes this game worth the $30.

Space Pirate Trainer:

Remember those classic arcade shooters like Space Invaders and Galaxian? Take that concept and put it into a first-person VR arcade shooter and you have Space Pirate Trainer. There is not that much to say other than it’s an addictive arcade like shooter.

Vader Immortal: A Star Wars VR Series:

Vader Immortal takes players to the Star Wars universe in which you journey through the planet of Mustafar, birthplace of the titular character. This is one of the few story driven games that is offered on the Oculus Quest 2 so I won’t spoil most of the experience, but it should be said that the game truly gives one the awe and wonder of the Star Wars universe, right into your headset. 

Overall I find the Oculus Quest 2 a great system for people who hope to experience VR. It offers some of the best experiences and all for the same cost of a standard console.