For many years, shooting video games have held a special place in the hearts of gamers. They’re among the very first game types that most gamers embrace. Even today, first-person and third-person shooters rule the gaming world, ensuring there’s an abundance of these games on all gaming platforms. In this ultimate guide, we share with you the best VR shooting games to try at least once.
Meta Quest 2 boasts some of the finest shooting VR games available. It’s fascinating how shooting games seem to harmonize perfectly with the world of virtual reality. These Quest 2 shooting games offer an essential gaming adventure that every genre enthusiast should experience using a VR headset.
Although it might not be the most popular, virtual reality has firmly established itself. Every month brings a slew of fresh projects, some of which undoubtedly belong among the elite VR Oculus Quest 2 FPS games.
1. *The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners*
| Date of Release | October 13th, 2020 |
| Developer(s) | Skydance Interactive |
| Subgenre | Horror |
| Minimum Space You Need | 7.3 GB |
| Oculus Store Link | The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners |
The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners goes beyond being just a shooter; it’s a full-fledged action-RPG adventure. This game combines the thrilling aspects of a zombie game with the immersive experience of virtual reality.
In Saints & Sinners, players confront the terrifying zombie onslaught and face tough choices with real consequences. You’ll have access to a wide range of weapons, from close-quarters melee to long-range options, making it a strong contender in the shooter genre. Plus, it’s important to note that this game is exclusively available in VR, providing players with total freedom of movement and interaction.
2. *Onward*
| Date of Release | July 30th, 2020 |
| Developer(s) | Downpour Interactive |
| Subgenre | Action |
| Minimum Space You Need | 4.08 GB |
| Oculus Store Link | Onward |
Even though it’s in its early access stage, Onward is the ideal choice for those seeking a Battlefield-like shooter. It excels in military simulation, delivering authentic gunplay and combat mechanics.
For an affordable price, players can dive into Onward and explore its solo, co-op, and multiplayer modes. The online multiplayer accommodates up to ten players across different game modes, offering a diverse selection of weapons for players to wield. Additionally, the game boasts user-generated content from the community, extending its replayability and enjoyment even further.
3. *Sniper Elite VR*
| Date of Release | July 8th, 2021 |
| Developer(s) | Coatsink |
| Subgenre | Action |
| Minimum Space You Need | 4.15 GB |
| Oculus Store Link | Sniper Elite VR |
If you’ve had the pleasure of playing a Sniper Elite game, you’re well aware of the thrill of nailing that perfect shot and witnessing your bullet eliminate foes one after another. Sniper Elite VR faithfully preserves that experience, ensuring it remains intact in the realm of virtual reality gaming.
In this game, players can master the art of precise sniper shooting, lob grenades, engage in intense battles with adversaries, and embrace the role of a battle-hardened sniper veteran. You can find the game as a standalone version on the Oculus Store or opt for the PCVR edition available on Steam.
4. *Pistol Whip*
| Date of Release | November 7th, 2019 |
| Developer(s) | Cloudhead Games, Ltd. |
| Subgenre | Rhythm |
| Minimum Space You Need | 1.47 GB |
| Oculus Store Link | Pistol Whip |
Pistol Whip stands out as one of the top-notch shooters for the Quest 2, delivering a virtual reality experience that’s truly exceptional. If you’ve enjoyed Thumper or Beat Saber, you’ll quickly find a connection with this game, thanks to its rhythm-driven shooting action that provides immense satisfaction.
Playing Pistol Whip can make you feel like a suave character akin to John Wick or the protagonist from Equilibrium, thanks to its stylish and fast-paced gameplay. With hand-crafted scenes ranging from uprisings to heists, the game guarantees to make you feel like a superhuman in the virtual world.
5. *Resident Evil 4 VR*
| Date of Release | October 21st, 2021 |
| Developer(s) | Armature Studio |
| Subgenre | Horror Games |
| Minimum Space You Need | 8.76 GB |
| Oculus Store Link | Resident Evil 4 VR |
Who could have imagined that the classic game from 2005 would make a comeback in 2021, reimagined for one of the finest virtual reality headsets? For many, Resident Evil 4 VR is like a dream come true. Its outstanding gameplay and finely tuned gun mechanics are a real treat. Although the original game might feel a bit outdated, the virtual reality version is like stepping into a whole new world.
The story of Resident Evil 4 remains pretty much the same in the VR edition, which is a good thing. But the gameplay has undergone a complete transformation, and it’s nothing short of amazing. In Resident Evil 4 VR, players can now do everything they could in the original game, but with even more interaction. You can manually reload your weapons, wield your knife in any direction you please, toss grenades with precision, and explore the eerie village in a spine-tingling first-person perspective. It’s an experience that’s truly beyond belief.
6. *Superhot VR*
| Date of Release | May 21st, 2019 |
| Developer(s) | SUPERHOT |
| Subgenre | Action |
| Minimum Space You Need | 2.11 GB |
| Oculus Store Link | Superhot VR |
Superhot stands as a beloved game, gracing both PC and consoles when it made its debut in 2016. Although it gained notoriety back then, its true essence didn’t truly emerge until the year 2019. Enter Superhot VR, a standalone version designed for Meta Quest 2, which elevates every aspect of the original game in numerous ways.
To begin with, this game truly shines in the realm of virtual reality. Its immersive qualities are undeniable. Moreover, it retains its status as a top-tier shooter while sporting a refreshingly minimalist art style that results in virtually no significant graphical sacrifices. Superhot VR stands tall as one of the must-have titles for Quest 2 enthusiasts, and it owes its acclaim primarily to its movement-centered gameplay.
7. *Robo Recall Unplugged*
| Date of Release | May 21st, 2019 |
| Developer(s) | Epic Games & Drifter Entertainment |
| Subgenre | Arcade |
| Minimum Space You Need | 3.73 GB |
| Oculus Store Link | Robo Recall Unplugged |
Much like Space Pirate Trainer DX, Robo Recall Unplugged is its own independent edition of the well-loved Rift shooter bearing the same moniker. In this captivating game, players are tasked with thwarting the robot uprising by facing off against waves of mechanical foes.
Robo Recall Unplugged boasts an extensive arsenal of weapons and a wealth of customization options, providing players with ample content to enjoy for an extended period. Priced at $30, this game has earned an impressive five-star rating from over 4,000 verified reviews. Undoubtedly, it stands among the top-quality games available for Quest 2, making it a must-try for everyone.
8. *Phantom: Covert Ops*
| Date of Release | June 25th, 2020 |
| Developer(s) | nDreams |
| Subgenre | Adventure |
| Minimum Space You Need | 3.65 GB |
| Oculus Store Link | Phantom: Covert Ops |
Although it might sound like a Call of Duty entry, Phantom: Covert Ops is an entirely different experience. This game is all about stealth, emphasizing the importance of staying hidden and becoming a silent predator. Within the game, players take on the role of an operative with the ability to either eliminate enemies with precision or slip past unnoticed, all from the confines of a military kayak.
The renowned virtual reality channel, VR Oasis, has hailed it as “the most unique stealth action game I’ve ever played.” This review neatly encapsulates the essence of Phantom: Covert Ops. For Quest 2 owners, it’s a must-play title, renowned for its exceptional comfort and gameplay experience on the platform.
9. *Space Pirate Trainer DX*
| Date of Release | May 21th, 2019 |
| Developer(s) | I-Illusions |
| Subgenre | Arcade |
| Minimum Space You Need | 1.67 GB |
| Oculus Store Link | Space Pirate Trainer DX |
Space Pirate Trainer DX offers a unique gaming experience. It’s a first-person shooter that captures a blend of retro and sci-fi vibes, creating a sensation unlike any other.
The game’s outstanding quality is reflected in its impressive reviews, boasting a remarkable five-star rating from more than 3,590 players on the Oculus Store. What’s even more appealing is that it was released in 2019, making it a relatively recent addition to the gaming scene. If you’re on the hunt for a great shooter, this one should definitely be on your radar.
10. *Zero Caliber: Reloaded*
| Date of Release | May 13th, 2021 |
| Developer(s) | XREAL Games |
| Subgenre | Action |
| Minimum Space You Need | 7.48 GB |
| Oculus Store Link | Zero Caliber: Reloaded |
While the Oculus Quest 2 offers its fair share of first-person shooters, many of them come with limited features. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, as it’s better to excel in one area than to spread thin, but it also means there are few games that feel truly complete. Zero Caliber: Reloaded, however, stands out as an exception.
Initially, the game launched with a single-player campaign that also allowed for cooperative play. This mode boasts a satisfying array of missions, enjoyable weapons, and a handful of exciting moments. The graphics may not be breathtaking, but they do the job well enough. Recently, Zero Caliber introduced a PvP mode, which adds an entirely new layer to the game. While it may have a few rough edges, this VR shooter is definitely one to keep an eye on.
11. *Compound*
| Date of Release | December 8th, 2022 |
| Developer(s) | notdead LLC |
| Subgenre | Roguelite |
| Minimum Space You Need | 275.5 GB |
| Oculus Store Link | Compound |
Embracing its vintage inspiration, Compound stands as a hidden gem among VR first-person shooters, successfully embodying its intended style. This roguelite adventure thrusts players into a tower’s depths, guiding them through relentless confrontations with a sinister corporation’s henchmen, all in pursuit of the elusive CEO. It may seem straightforward, but this premise harmonizes seamlessly with the game’s action-packed gameplay.
Even in the face of defeat, there’s hope. Players have the opportunity to unlock unique firearms to tackle their subsequent missions, ensuring that failure is not a game-ending setback. The core shooting mechanics are impressively solid, and Compound distinguishes itself with a reload system that demands a bit more finesse than your typical shooter.
12. *Medal Of Honor: Above And Beyond*
| Date of Release | December 11th, 2020 |
| Developer(s) | Respawn Entertainment |
| Subgenre | War |
| Minimum Space You Need | 44.05 GB |
| Oculus Store Link | Medal of Honor: Above and Beyond |
Medal of Honor has faded from the spotlight in today’s gaming landscape. Once a giant in the early 2000s, this iconic military shooter had lost its luster by 2012, marking the end of its mainline home console releases. In the years that followed, Medal of Honor remained largely dormant, with its sole project being 2020’s Above and Beyond—a VR exclusive journey set during World War 2. In many ways, this game resembles a collection of greatest hits, leading players through familiar battlefields and cinematic moments, interspersed with extended dialogue segments.
Above and Beyond holds up well in most aspects; the shooting mechanics are solid, the visuals are top-notch, the campaign offers a decent length, and the unlockable documentary videos add a valuable touch. In terms of content, the game stands tall, a rarity among VR shooters. However, given its storied legacy and reputation, Above and Beyond falls short of achieving true greatness, primarily due to its uneven single-player mode.
13. *Bonelab*
| Date of Release | September 29th, 2022 |
| Developer(s) | Stress Level Zero Inc. |
| Subgenre | Action |
| Minimum Space You Need | 7.13 GB |
| Oculus Store Link | Bonelab |
Bonelab stands out as a physics-driven shooter that encourages players to get creative with mods. While it does come with a brief campaign, the real heart of the game lies in its sandbox maps, offering players a playground to craft their own distinctive adventures.
In the realm of single-player VR shooters, Bonelab may not dazzle, but its immersive potential for endless expansion makes it one of the top choices for the Meta Quest 2.
14. *Blaston*
| Date of Release | October 8th, 2020 |
| Developer(s) | Resolution Games |
| Subgenre | Sport |
| Minimum Space You Need | 747 MB |
| Oculus Store Link | Blaston |
Virtual reality has emerged as an ideal platform for games designed for short play sessions. Blaston embodies simplicity: in a vibrant room adorned with hovering firearms, two players enter. When the timer ticks down, they must swiftly choose a weapon and aim to be the first to shoot their opponent. The concept is easy to grasp but challenging to excel at, creating a captivating gameplay loop that constantly beckons players for one more round.
Although primarily a multiplayer adventure, Blaston extends a helping hand to beginners by offering AI opponents for practice sessions before diving into competitive play.
15. *Drop Dead: Dual Strike*
| Date of Release | May 21st, 2019 |
| Developer(s) | Soul Assembly |
| Subgenre | On-Rails, Zombie |
| Minimum Space You Need | 2.84 GB |
| Oculus Store Link | Drop Dead: Dual Strike |
Drop Dead: Dual Strike has been in the gaming scene for quite some time. While it may reveal some signs of aging, it remains one of the most enjoyable on-rail shooters for the Oculus Quest. In a world overrun by zombies, thanks to the mischief of Doctor Monday, players are thrust into action. Armed with an array of guns and melee weapons, they embark on a mission to shoot and smash their way through hordes of the undead.
Reminiscent of classic arcade shooters, Drop Dead offers a straightforward yet effective gaming experience. It serves up intense, over-the-top action and a reasonable level of challenge. The shooting mechanics are smooth and responsive, and the game’s campaign offers enough content to make its price worthwhile. For those hungry for more zombie-slaying action, there’s also a horde mode to extend the adventure beyond the main storyline.
In February 2023, Soul Assembly treated gamers to Drop Dead: The Cabin, another solid addition to the above-average shooter genre.
16. *Arizona Sunshine*
| Date of Release | December 5th, 2019 |
| Developer(s) | Vertigo Games |
| Subgenre | Horror |
| Minimum Space You Need | 5.02 GB |
| Oculus Store Link | Arizona Sunshine |
Arizona Sunshine stands out as a well-known VR game, often seen as a tech showcase. It’s no secret that zombie-themed shooters are quite common, and this game doesn’t break new ground in terms of its story or visuals. Nonetheless, what truly shines here are the controls, and in the end, that’s what matters most.
Arizona Sunshine really highlights the immersive potential of VR, not just in its world but especially in the way it handles gunplay. The shooting action has an arcade-like quality to it, providing a straightforward yet satisfying experience that leads to numerous thrilling moments. Exciting news for fans: Arizona Sunshine 2 is officially in development.
17. *Pavlov: Shack (Beta)*
| Date of Release | March 31st, 2021 |
| Developer(s) | Vankrupt Games |
| Subgenre | Multiplayer Shooter |
| Minimum Space You Need | 4.4 GB |
| Oculus Store Link | Pavlov: Shack |
Pavlov: Shack is one of the more popular multiplayer VR games, and it’s the free version of Pavlov VR. It’s all about intense 5v5 matches, and what really stands out are the realistic weapons and decent visuals that fit the VR world. The game’s biggest strength is its lifelike gun handling, making it one of the most immersive experiences in the VR gaming landscape.
Since Pavlov: Shack is purely multiplayer, the quality of matches can vary quite a bit depending on who you’re playing with. Nevertheless, given that it’s a free game, it’s definitely worth giving it a try.
If you enjoy Pavlov: Shack, you might also find Contractors to be a similar and enjoyable experience.
18. *Into The Radius*
| Date of Release | November 6th, 2019 |
| Developer(s) | Creative Mobile & CM Games |
| Subgenre | Survival Shooter |
| Minimum Space You Need | 4.4 GB |
| Oculus Store Link | Into the Radius |
For VR enthusiasts seeking a more deliberate and tactical shooter experience, Into the Radius should fit the bill. This survival game unfolds in a post-apocalyptic Russia, a haunting landscape of desolation, where remnants of a once-thriving society lie in ruins. It’s a harsh world where the darkest aspects of human nature surface as individuals struggle to survive.
While the game may not boast the most impressive visuals and can be quite challenging, Into the Radius offers a compelling adventure with its focus on environmental storytelling. Players must truly take ownership of their weapons, maintaining them meticulously to avoid potential technical failures during intense firefights.
