How Much Are VR Games? Is the Amount of Content Worth It?

We all know that VR headsets can come with a hefty price tag, and some even require a powerful computer to run. Once you’ve invested in the hardware, it’s only natural to wonder about the expenses of VR games and apps. How much are VR games? Is having fun in VR going to break the bank? Prepare to be pleasantly surprised by the answers.

How Much Does a VR Game Cost?

The cost of VR games can differ quite a bit. You’ll find some games that won’t cost you a dime, but others might go as high as $60. Usually, games made by big companies tend to be pricier, especially when you compare them to indie or smaller studio games, which often have lower prices to get more folks to give them a shot.

Are VR Game Prices an Indication of Quality?

No, it’s not always the case that spending extra money ensures a better gaming experience. In fact, your personal game preferences could lead you to enjoy a modest $2 game more than a popular $60 one. Before hitting that “buy” button, it’s a good idea to check out reviews for any game you’re considering to see if it aligns with your gaming style.

Where Do You Buy VR Games?

Steam takes the crown as the top choice for buying VR games. It offers a vast collection of games with different price tags and works smoothly with most headsets. If you’re rocking an Oculus headset, the Oculus Store is also a solid option for game purchases. However, for PS VR headset owners, it’s all about PlayStation games, available through the PlayStation Store or your go-to spot for physical game copies. Be on the lookout for discounts on these platforms if you want to snag VR games without breaking the bank.

Are VR games too expensive for the amount of content they offer?

The opinions about the fairness of VR games pricing differ from user to user.

Stacey Bryan Lee said on Quora: “In my personal view, yes, it is. As of now, VR hasn’t quite found its footing. Don’t get me wrong; VR is a fascinating concept, and I eagerly anticipate its future. However, at the moment, it often feels a bit on the “gimmicky” side, like playing a regular game but in VR.

VR still lacks what truly sets it apart. The way a movie tells a story differs from a video game, as games make the player an integral part of the narrative, offering an interactive experience. In contrast, movies have us sit back and absorb the story. It’s not about one being better than the other, but you can sense the distinction in storytelling between these mediums.

On the other hand, VR, in essence, is essentially a video game with a VR system substituting a controller and console. While there’s a difference in interactivity, the storytelling and message presentation are often quite similar to regular video games, such as those on the PS4 or Xbox.

Furthermore, most VR games, when compared to console games, seem to take away more from the experience than they add. This includes aspects like content, gameplay, and the ability to engage with friends, all in the name of the VR experience.

So, in my opinion, yes, it’s a bit too pricey for the amount of content it presently offers.”

Another user, Christoph Wolf, said: “Regrettably, that’s the case. However, the issue lies in the fact that only a very limited number of people who can afford a VR setup actually play these games. This means that the developers must recoup the costs of creating the game from a smaller pool of consumers, which often leads to higher prices. If these games were designed for PC or consoles, I would estimate their value to be about half of what they currently cost.”

Kenneth Colon thinks that the problem is not really the games themselves, it’s the headset. “Virtual reality (VR) can be quite costly for many individuals, myself included. It can easily reach several hundred dollars, which not everyone can afford, especially after investing in a PS4 or a high-quality gaming PC.”

Also, David Hepple, thinks that VR games are expensive for the amount of content they offer. “The reason VR developers can charge steep prices is because they have a bit of a monopoly. Take, for instance, if you’re looking for a quality online VR first-person shooter, you’re essentially left with just two options. This limited competition gives developers the leverage to set high prices because they know you have to choose between option A and option B. On the other hand, in the world of PC gaming, there’s a plethora of excellent online FPS games, forcing each one to offer competitive pricing.

Once VR becomes more widely adopted, we can expect to see fairer game prices emerge.”

If you’re looking for some great Virtual reality games, check this best VR Games guide. Also, don’t forget these great Retro VR games.

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