The immersion offered by VR takes the survival gaming experience to an entirely new level, promising moments of intensity and excitement that will stay with you. In this guide, we’ll explore an impressive selection of 25 top-notch VR survival games suitable for PC VR headsets, Quest 2, and PSVR.
Over the past few years, I’ve immersed myself in the world of VR survival games, dedicating countless hours to exploring the genre’s diverse offerings. From this rich pool of experiences, I’ve handpicked 25 of my personal favorites for this list, games that I believe are an absolute must-try. Within these selections, you’ll find true-to-life survival adventures as well as heart-pounding horror survival games that will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end.
1. *Minecraft VR*
Many folks might not be aware of the fact that this timeless open-world survival gem now officially embraces VR technology. In its Bedrock Edition, this game seamlessly integrates VR capabilities through a free update, available on the PC launcher and PlayStation store. This means you get to dive headfirst into the Minecraft universe, all while wearing your trusty virtual reality headset. As a bonus, you’ll have access to many player-created maps, thrilling adventures, and nifty mods to keep the excitement rolling.
However, it’s worth noting that VR survival games in the Minecraft Java Edition require a different approach – namely, mods. That’s the sole route to virtual reality adventures in this version.
Minecraft’s signature low-res style perfectly matches the VR platform, making it feasible to run the game smoothly on less powerful PCs and consoles. Plus, there’s a wealth of accessibility options to ensure you can tailor your gaming experience to your comfort level.
2. *Subnautica*
Subnautica stands tall as one of the heavyweights in the world of VR survival games, right up there with The Forest. Its unique charm lies in its immersive underwater setting, allowing players to plunge into the mysteries of the ocean depths.
At a quick glance, Subnautica could easily be confused for a serene underwater tour, but don’t be fooled. As you explore, it cleverly weaves the perils of the deep into your journey. Encounters with sea monsters, in particular, add an exhilarating and suspenseful dimension to the game. Now, imagine diving into this thrilling adventure with the magic of VR – it takes the experience to a whole new level.
3. *The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners*
The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners, though a tad more structured compared to your typical open-world survival game, stands out not only as one of the finest VR survival games but as an exceptional VR title overall. It unfolds in the eponymous backdrop, casting you as a visitor in the now-zombie-infested New Orleans. The game boasts some of the most immersive melee VR mechanics, delivering an exhilarating and captivating experience.
Survival remains a constant concern in this virtual world. Your stamina must be carefully managed, with the need to consume food regularly to maintain it. In times of injury, the application of bandages becomes a necessity. You’ll have to explore the desolate landscape to accomplish any of these tasks, scavenging for whatever supplies you can lay your hands on.
4. *Green Hell VR*
Have you ever yearned for an intense struggle for survival in the heart of the jungle? Well, that’s precisely what Green Hell VR promises. It is one of the most immersive and heart-pounding VR survival games. As Jake Higgins, an anthropologist stranded deep within the Amazon, you must grapple with the constant threats of hunger, infection, and injury, all while battling the perils of the environment and the hostile wildlife.
It’s worth noting that Green Hell VR is a distinct experience from the standard Green Hell game. If you own the regular version, you must purchase the VR adaptation separately to embark on this adventure.
Green Hell steers clear of sci-fi or fantasy elements instead of faithfully portraying the Amazon jungle in its untamed, natural state. The game’s graphics and technical prowess excel, capturing the essence of the Amazon rainforest in a way that sets it apart from others.
5. *The Forest*
If you’re in search of a true-blue VR survival game, then The Forest has been making waves since 2018. It offers a chilling twist on the classic castaway survival scenario. In this game, you step into the shoes of a father, determined to find his son after a plane crash leaves you stranded in a remote forest.
Unfortunately, this forest is teeming with mutants, and the question of whether they’ve taken your son hangs in the air. Days are frantic, and nights are unforgivingly dark and brutal. It’s a setup perfectly suited for VR, intensifying the stress and horror factor to a whole new level.
6. *Fallout 4 VR*
When Fallout 4 first arrived, it lacked VR support, but it was an obvious choice for a VR adaptation. Honestly, Fallout 4 isn’t purely a survival game; it leans more towards the RPG side, with survival mechanics not fully realized. However, a survival mode and mods are available to enhance the immersive gameplay experience.
It’s important to note that Fallout 4 VR is a distinct game from the original Fallout 4 and requires a separate purchase to enjoy.
For newcomers to the VR platform who are fans of survival games, Fallout 4 VR serves as an excellent starting point. It allows you to ease into VR gameplay while revisiting the post-apocalyptic streets of Boston with heightened immersion.
7. *Kobold: Chapter 1*
Although leaning more towards the horror genre than traditional survival, these two genres have always connected closely. In the VR survival game Kobold, you explore a foreboding, shadowy manor, searching for crucial clues and keys in the dimly lit corners. All the while, you must remain vigilant for the supernatural entities that haunt your every move.
Kobold provides a deeply immersive experience, enveloping you in an atmospheric world inspired by an actual location in Brandenburg, Germany. It’s a journey infused with the rich tapestry of folklore and Germanic culture. So remarkable is this game that it earned the prestigious Raindance Award for the best VR survival game experience.
8. *Devour*
Although it may seem like a horror game at first glance, Devour is primarily a multiplayer VR survival game. You and your team of up to three others have a challenging mission: explore various locations, each with a common objective – collect items scattered across the map and take them to a purification point. The twist is that the more you purify, the more aggressive the hostile entity in that area becomes.
Its gameplay is generally straightforward, but successfully completing it is a tough feat, given the ever-quickening pursuit of the menacing monster. Each level introduces something fresh, altering the rules to maintain a sense of variety. For instance, one level might require you to gather goats for a sacrificial altar, while another may task you with cleansing demonic eggs and placing them in hidden shrines.
9. *Cosmodread*
Cosmodread, a thrilling VR survival game, checks off several exciting boxes. It’s exclusively VR, similar to Star Shelter, with a strong emphasis on the horror element. What sets it apart is the incorporation of roguelike mechanics, meaning that failure or death sends you back to the starting line.
But in Cosmodread, you won’t be managing a space vessel; instead, your goal is to escape a deteriorating one. As the ship disintegrates around you, you must scavenge for vital resources to ensure your survival during the evacuation. It’s an excellent game, although the intensity of the VR experience might be a bit too much for some players, which is perfectly understandable.
10. *Into The Radius VR*
If you’re craving a VR-exclusive experience that channels the spirit of a cult series like Stalker, then Into the Radius is your top pick. At first glance, this VR survival game feels like a worthy successor to the Stalker franchise. Still, the standout feature here is the impressive graphics, especially considering it’s a VR title.
In Into the Radius VR, you embark on a journey to explore the enigmatic and physics-defying Pechorsk Radius Zone. Rest assured, you’ll be armed with your faithful AK, a trusty compass, and a supply of post-Soviet era rations to ensure your survival in this intriguing, mysterious world.
11. *Song In The Smoke*
Song in the Smoke shares similarities with Valheim, resembling a cel-shaded survival adventure with a simplistic visual charm. Yet, its unique strength is unveiled in its VR exclusivity, which fully immerses players in a world designed solely for VR.
In this VR survival game, gameplay seamlessly intertwines with the immersive controls of virtual reality. Players must remain vigilant, never underestimating even the slightest movement on the periphery of their vision. Beyond this, the core survival elements remain quite conventional. Crafting essentials, hunting wildlife, and striving to endure are all part and parcel of the experience.
12. *No Man’s Sky*
No Man’s Sky delivers an incredibly immersive VR journey, inviting you into an infinite universe brimming with wonders, breathtaking visuals, and the complete freedom to shape your own adventure. It’s a realm teeming with intriguing locales, captivating characters, and formidable adversaries, allowing you to carve your destiny as an explorer, warrior, merchant, or swashbuckler.
While No Man’s Sky can be played in its standard mode, there exists a survival mode that thrusts you into a demanding struggle for existence. Here, you must skillfully manage scarce resources in the face of a hostile environment, all the while striving to establish your foothold in the cosmos. Survival mode can be unrelenting; a single misstep can result in the forfeiture of your inventory and damage to your ship. Yet, this very challenge and tension make the game all the more gripping as you battle for your survival.
The game’s extensive crafting system empowers you to forge upgrades for your Exosuit, weaponry, starships, and more. Blueprint discoveries throughout the universe add an expansive dimension to character development.
Originally launched as a conventional PC game, the VR adaptation of No Man’s Sky is nothing short of exceptional. The development team continues to enrich the experience with regular content updates, transforming No Man’s Sky into one of the most remarkable VR survival games I’ve enjoyed playing.
No Man’s Sky awaits on Steam for those with PC VR headsets. While it isn’t compatible with standalone VR headsets, you can enjoy it on the Quest 2 by linking to a VR-ready PC via Quest Link (USB cable) or wirelessly through Air Link. Prepare to embark on your cosmic odyssey.
13. *The Solus Project*
The Solus Project sets itself apart from the other space games, and interestingly, it predates them both. This game has received high praise and delves into the timeless realm of psychological science-fiction horror. Although it’s primarily marketed as an exploration adventure, it also incorporates survival aspects.
In The Solus Project, you step into the shoes of a pioneer, representing humanity’s chance for a fresh start on a new world after the irreversible ruin of Earth. Unfortunately, one of the seemingly uninhabited planets you encounter is teeming with bizarre phenomena that defy explanation.
14. *SURV1V3*
Have you ever wished for a more intense, VR-enabled version of Left 4 Dead? SURV1V3 delivers just that and then some. This game is exclusively designed for VR, allowing you to team up with three online companions to battle the undead in a post-apocalyptic setting. Being a more recent release, it boasts top-tier visuals and gameplay that meet current standards.
In terms of horror and content, SURV1V3 excels in both satisfying and terrifying players. Unlike the arcade-style Left 4 Dead, SURV1V3 takes a realistic approach. The physics are less forgiving, and success doesn’t come easy; you can’t expect to wing it and make numerous mistakes while still having fun or achieving victory.
15. *Star Shelter*
Similar to Half-Life: Alyx, Star Shelter isn’t just a game with VR support but is tailor-made for VR. The developers took a bold approach, constructing it from the ground up with VR as the core experience. This unique design means the game incorporates mechanics and gameplay elements that are exclusively suited for VR headsets.
Star Shelter immerses you in a space survival adventure that might remind you of intense space thrillers like Gravity. Your task is to maintain a space station, but this job has no peace. You’ll constantly contend with challenges such as asteroid threats, oxygen levels, and a host of other nerve-wracking obstacles that stand in the way of billionaires realizing their space ambitions.
16. *CyubeVR*
Imagine a world like Minecraft but with graphics as stunning as Crysis. That’s the essence of cyubeVR. This game might have slipped under the radar due to its unusual name, possibly affecting its marketing, but don’t underestimate it when it comes to survival gaming. In fact, it’s among the top-rated VR survival games on Steam.
It’s important to note that cyubeVR is still in its Early Access phase, so expect ongoing changes. The game offers near-infinite viewing distances, the freedom to craft anything you desire, and the unique ability to upgrade low-resolution creations into dazzling 4K versions.
17. *Freediver: Triton Down*
Freediver: Triton Down offers an exceptionally unique and captivating VR adventure. In this underwater escapade, you’ll plunge into the depths of an ancient cavern, assuming a freediver’s role in an enthralling solo journey.
Employing a remarkably intuitive swimming motion using your controllers, you’ll navigate through difficult, narrow underwater passages, tackle interactive puzzles, and carefully manage your breath as you move between life-saving pockets of air.
From the very outset, this game had me in its grip. The intriguing premise, immersive surroundings, compelling narrative, and outstanding voice acting combine to create an experience that feels as authentic as if you were truly underwater.
Within just a few minutes, the controls become second nature, making you genuinely feel like you’re gliding beneath the waves. Although it might only take 1-2 hours to complete, the game is reasonably priced. I wholeheartedly recommend adding it to your collection if you’re a fan of narrative-driven VR survival games. You can find Freediver: Triton Down on Steam for PC VR headsets. Dive in and experience this underwater wonderland for yourself.
18. *Paradox Of Hope VR*
Paradox Of Hope VR offers a thrilling journey through the eerie tunnels of the post-apocalyptic Moscow metro, blending the immersive allure of VR with the intensity reminiscent of the Metro games. In this story-driven VR survival game, you’ll need a mix of stealth and combat skills to navigate this dark and foreboding world.
You’ll discover a single-player narrative experience and a challenging Raids mode within the game. The Raids mode offers an endless adventure, complete with procedurally generated levels that will push your survival abilities to the limit. Your mission? To scavenge for valuable loot, ammunition, weapons, and first-aid kits while navigating the tense and perilous environment.
The gameplay revolves around exploring ominous tunnels, dispatching foes, and seeking refuge in secure rooms where you can gear up and enhance your equipment. The gameplay mechanics are incredibly robust, featuring manual gun reloading and lifelike interactions with in-game items. The darkness of the environment adds a palpable sense of suspense, especially when you initially have just a lighter to pierce the shadows ahead.
Weapons are satisfying to wield and customizable with various attachments such as sights, suppressors, and lights, allowing you to become more efficient in combat. The stealth mechanics are well-crafted, and your trusty watch keeps you informed about your visibility status.
While Paradox Of Hope VR is currently in early access, and its single-player story is relatively short and unfinished, the Raids mode promises hours of enjoyment. It’s genuinely impressive what the solitary developer of this game has accomplished so far, and I eagerly anticipate the continued development of this exciting VR survival adventure. You can find Paradox Of Hope VR on Steam, catering to PC VR headset enthusiasts.
19. *Propagation VR*
Meet Propagation VR, an adrenaline-pumping, free VR survival horror game awaiting your daring spirit on Steam. Prepare yourself for a heart-pounding wave-shooting escapade, where your sole mission is to repel hordes of spine-chilling undead adversaries. Though it’s not an extended odyssey, the game boasts top-notch production values and game mechanics that will leave you breathless as you fight off encroaching enemies, armed with your weapons and sheer determination.
While Propagation VR may not follow the traditional survival game path, it conjures the same intense emotions, making you feel as if you’re battling for your very existence. The game wows with its impressive graphics, and the controls offer a seamless experience. Manually reloading your weapons adds to the realism and immersion, ensuring that every moment is a white-knuckle thrill ride.
Picture yourself in a decrepit subway station within the world of Propagation VR, where solitude is your only companion. It won’t be long before the undead become aware of your presence and commence their relentless advance. You’re faced with a choice: to shoot your assailants or engage in hand-to-hand combat when they draw near. Vigilance is your constant companion as you fend off attacks from all sides, with nowhere to seek refuge.
20. *The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim VR*
Immersing yourself in the world of The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim VR is like stepping into a legendary RPG adventure through the magic of virtual reality. Though it comes with a few minor quirks, the overall experience is awe-inspiring. Picture this: you have the freedom to craft your very own character and set foot in the mystical province of Skyrim, ready to embark on an adventure of your choosing. While there is an engaging main storyline awaiting your exploration, don’t forget that you hold the reins and can craft your unique journey as you see fit.
Skyrim VR stands out as a remarkable choice when it comes to VR survival games. It seamlessly weaves together various elements that make the genre so captivating, offering an experience unrivaled by any other true VR survival game available today. Even though the official survival mode hasn’t officially arrived in Skyrim VR, a plethora of mods can transform your experience into a virtual survival masterpiece.
The vast expanse of Skyrim VR is a playground of adventure, offering an abundance of content to explore. You’ll encounter a multitude of non-playable characters, delve into numerous quests, have the opportunity to construct your dream home, engage in thrilling combat, master the arcane arts, navigate intricate skill trees, and experiment with a host of captivating game mechanics. This game truly has something to offer every kind of gamer.
A passionate community
Of course, Skyrim VR is not without its share of hiccups in terms of gameplay, user interface, and controls, but there’s a silver lining. An active and passionate modding community has tirelessly crafted countless mods to mend these issues and enhance an already magnificent gaming experience. The fusion of VR technology with Skyrim’s enchanting world catapults it into the ranks of the finest games I’ve ever had the pleasure of playing. My personal hours spent on this journey number in the hundreds, so if you’re on the lookout for an exceptional VR survival game, Skyrim VR is a must-try.
You can find Skyrim VR on Steam for PC VR headsets and also on the PSVR platform. If you’re an Oculus Quest 2 user, fret not; you can also savor this epic adventure by using the Link Cable or Airlink.
21. *A Township Tale*
Let me paint you a picture of A Township Tale: a VR game that plunges you into an immersive open-world RPG adventure, complete with a touch of survival elements that will surely tickle the fancy of survival game enthusiasts. As you step into this virtual realm, the world is your oyster, offering a diverse array of activities to keep you captivated. These include gathering, crafting, mining, cooking, blacksmithing, trading, exploring, and, of course, engaging in heart-pounding combat.
Survival mechanics are woven into the gameplay, requiring you to keep a watchful eye on your health and energy levels, all while you forage, cultivate, or hunt for sustenance. But let me make it clear: these survival aspects are not the central focus; they are seamlessly integrated into the broader gaming experience. This alone merits A Township Tale’s inclusion in the ranks of exceptional VR survival games due to its rich tapestry of gameplay mechanics that resonate with other fan-favorite titles in this genre.
Now, it’s true that A Township Tale boasts a rather modest visual presentation with its simplistic graphics. However, don’t let that deter you, for beneath the surface lies a profound and challenging game that more than compensates for its unassuming visuals. The crafting system is a work of art, inviting you to engage in a hands-on, tactile process where you hammer nails, fell towering trees, and meld various components to forge an impressive array of indispensable tools and items.
For those seeking to embark on this virtual adventure, A Township Tale awaits your presence. You can obtain it for your PC VR headset directly from the developer’s website, or if you’re wielding an Oculus Quest 2 or Quest, it’s readily available in the Oculus store.
22. *Arizona Sunshine*
Arizona Sunshine, a remarkable VR survival game dating back to 2016, continues to shine brightly even in a gaming landscape crowded with newer titles. This co-op zombie survival adventure lets you brave the undead hordes solo or team up with three companions amidst the haunting Arizona canyons.
What sets Arizona Sunshine apart is its impeccable VR controls and gameplay, offering a thrilling experience without plunging you into the depths of horror as some other titles might. Over the years, it has undergone numerous updates and bug fixes, resulting in a well-polished and highly enjoyable game. Its pacing is finely tuned, the weaponry is gratifying to wield, and the scarcity of ammo keeps you on edge, pondering your next move.
Arizona Sunshine is readily accessible on Steam for PC VR headsets, as well as on the Oculus store for Quest 1 and Quest 2, along with Rift headsets. Whether you’re a seasoned VR survivor or a newcomer to the genre, this game is worth a plunge into the Arizona wastelands.
23. *Resident Evil 4 VR*
The VR iteration of Resident Evil 4 emerges as an exclusive Meta Quest 2 gem, making a compelling case for acquiring a Quest 2 if it’s not already in your arsenal. RE4 VR represents a finely-tuned, VR-enhanced adaptation of the timeless horror survival classic, a title that likely graced your gaming library on a different platform at some point since its original release.
In the world of Resident Evil, the VR remaster on Quest 2 reigns as an indispensable addition, arguably the zenith of this game’s evolution. It breathes fresh life into an adventure that originally stepped into the spotlight way back in 2005, thanks to heightened immersion and innovative VR control mechanics.
Stepping into the shoes of Leon Kennedy, you embark on a mission to rescue the president’s missing daughter, ensnared by a shadowy enigma. The situation rapidly deteriorates, and you find yourself battling for survival, waging war against relentless adversaries.
While the gameplay typically offers a thrilling escapade, the VR version has a few hiccups, notably the occasional disconnection from first-person view during cutscenes, which can slightly diminish the overall immersive experience.
Nonetheless, these minor drawbacks don’t eclipse the fact that this is one of the best VR survival games. If you’re the proud owner of a Quest 2, adding this to your collection is a no-brainer. Your virtual adventures will thank you later.
24. *After The Fall*
“After The Fall” is an exhilarating co-op VR survival shooter that immerses you in heart-pounding action alongside your comrades as you face relentless waves of menacing undead adversaries. Spanning five distinct levels, this adrenaline-pumping adventure offers ample replayability across various difficulty settings. The thrill never subsides as you steadily enhance your equipment and hone your skills.
If you’ve relished the intense gameplay of “Left 4 Dead,” you’ll find “After The Fall” to be a virtual reality counterpart that truly captivates. Prepare for the ultimate zombie-slaying experience in the company of friends or AI companions. Your mission: to conquer the undead hordes and secure a haven where you can strategize and gear up for the next harrowing battle. The game may feel somewhat brief in content, but its excitement more than compensates.
Dive into the world of “After The Fall” and discover a robust VR survival game that delivers non-stop action, responsive VR controls, and a satisfying amount of gameplay. You’ll find it available on Steam for PC VR headsets, the Oculus store for Rift and Quest 2, as well as on PSVR. Don’t miss out on this electrifying VR survival gaming experience.
25. *Project Terminus VR*
“Project Terminus” emerges as a spine-tingling VR survival horror game, immersing you in a post-apocalyptic Paris through a gripping narrative. This story-driven adventure is a masterclass in atmosphere and suspense, boasting impeccable pacing and a diverse and engaging set of gameplay mechanics. While it remains in early access under the care of an indie developer, a few bugs may linger, and only two out of three-story acts have been unveiled, the overall experience remains remarkably robust.
The graphics, admittedly, maintain a certain simplicity on Quest 2, though they do step up a notch when experienced on a PC VR headset. Yet, where the visuals may falter, the game’s enthralling ambiance and dynamic gameplay take center stage, easily compensating for any visual shortcomings. You have the choice to embark on this nerve-wracking adventure solo or with a crew of up to three other players, even spanning cross-platform compatibility.
“Project Terminus” awaits your exploration, offering an enthralling blend of survival horror in the VR realm. Unveil its mysteries and uncover the dark secrets of post-apocalyptic Paris. This captivating game is available on Steam for PC VR headsets and on the Oculus store for Quest 2, Quest, and Rift headsets. Prepare for an immersive journey that will keep you on the edge of your virtual seat.
