Virtual reality (VR) is the most immersive way to experience a video game. It allows you to step foot into fictional worlds, unlike any other platform. From shooters that allow you to manually reload weapons, to interactive rhythm games that give you a workout, these games highlight what makes virtual reality so special.

Whether you’re a long-time enthusiast or a newcomer, this list outlines some of the best VR games available to play in 2024.

The list has been made in consideration of multiple genres and platforms and is in no particular order.

Best VR games available

10. Beat Saber

Price: $24.99

Platforms: Steam, Meta

Beat Saber still remains one of the most popular VR games in 2024 because of the variety of songs available. It is a rhythm music game that is easy to pick up, but difficult to master once you reach the more challenging levels. Gameplay consists of striking down incoming blocks in tune with the music, which is constantly updated with both DLC and community additions. Because of its integration of motion controls, it is one of the most active games you can play, encouraging physical movement suitable for players of all fitness levels. Beat Saber is also considered one of the best rhythm games on the Meta Quest 3.

9. SUPERHOT VR

Price: $24.99

Platforms: Steam, Meta

SUPERHOT took the internet by storm when it was first released on February 24, 2016. It’s signature mechanic where time moves only when you do is enhanced in the VR edition as you watch bullets race past you firsthand. The explosive executions have more weight to them as you shoot, cut, and punch your way through every red foe standing in your way. This edition of SUPERHOT is considered one of the best VR titles in 2024 because of its intense level-based combat encounters, which require a strategy to succeed.

8. Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes

Price: $14.99

Platforms: Steam, Meta

Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes (KTNE) lives up to its namesake as a co-op puzzle-solving VR game. Two players communicate with one another to disarm a bomb; with one player following a series of instructions whilst guiding the other to solve its elaborate puzzles. The bomb procedurally generates a random assortment of puzzles, giving great replay value to the game. KTNE is one of the best multiplayer VR games available, as in many cases only one person is required to have a VR headset while the other can download the official bomb defusal manual separately.

7. No Man’s Sky

Price: $59.99

Platforms: Steam 

No Man’s Sky has had quite the journey since it launched back in 2016, and it has continued to become even more popular in 2024. It is considered both the best sci-fi game available and amongst the top VR games of 2024. The VR experience takes the space adventure to the next level, bringing new levels of interactivity to space-craft piloting and combat, base building, and on-planet exploration. Hello Games has continued to build on this game with a series of updates, including the first half of their graphical overhaul with the No Man’s Sky: Worlds update that was developed for the upcoming Light No Fire RPG.

6. Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim VR

Price: $59.99

Platforms: Steam 

Players can experience the open world of Skyrim in VR, which has proven to be one of the best ways to experience Bethesda’s iconic fantasy RPG title. Being able to physically swing weapons, draw bows, and cast spells brings a new level of engagement to combat. The exploration that was celebrated in the original 2011 release feels more tactile and immersive in VR, with highly detailed landscapes you can see with your own eyes. It is a solid title to experience to help players get up to speed before the release of Elder Scrolls VI.

5. Subnautica

Price: $29.99 

Platforms: Steam

Subnautica becomes the ultimate under water exploration game in VR. Exploration is enhanced as you navigate through its biomes and observe its wildlife. An encounter with a Reaper Leviathan becomes even more intense and horrifying when in VR, as you see and experience everything as if you’re really there. Subnautica is a great sandbox experience that lets players discover the seas at their own pace. It combines the best elements of exploration with core survival mechanics.

4. Rec Room

Price: Free

Platforms: Steam, Meta

Rec Room stands amongst the best VR games for PC due to its social features. It is a title that lets you enjoy party games with friends or simply relax and chat online. It combines the social features of VR Chat with the creative freedom of Roblox. This VR game offers a fun way to connect with others online, giving you the controls to shape your experience. Create your own room or join popular community activities like paintball, escape rooms, dodgeball, and more.

3. Blade & Sorcery

Price: $29.99 

Platforms: Steam, Meta 

Blade & Sorcery is a sandbox game that gives players the freedom to tackle fights however they see fit. It’s believable physics system, making environment and NPC interactions more realistic, creates a VR experience worthy of praise in 2024. The game also boasts extensive mod support, allowing players to change the game from medieval fantasy to other genres such as sci-fi. Ever dream of being able to fight Darth Vader with a light saber while in VR? You can do just that in Blade & Sorcery.

2. Pavlov

Price: $24.99 

Platforms: Steam, Meta

Pavlov is one of the best multiplayer VR games in 2024, taking the popular genre to new heights. It features your typical modes such as team deathmatch, search & destroy, and more. It introduces an additional layer of skill not found in other FPS games. By making players physically aim and reload their weapons, a new layer of skill is introduced to gameplay.  Vankrupt Games also frequently updates the game with new content, and bug fixes, to ensure gameplay doesn’t become stale.

1. Half-Life: Alyx

Price: $59.99

Platform: Steam

The Half-Life series is highly revered among fans because of its world-building and compelling storytelling. Alyx serves as a solid middle ground to the fever dream that is Half-Life 3. The title demonstrates that Valve is still capable of delivering top-tier experiences after all these years. Serving as a prequel to Half-Life 2, we are placed in the shoes of Alyx Vance in the early stages of the Combine’s conquest of Earth. The game makes intuitive use of the gravity gloves, making object retrieval incredibly satisfying and nostalgic. It is our number-one choice for the top VR game of 2024.

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As the year draws to a close, a few must-play games of 2024 might have slipped under your radar. The festive season is the perfect time to catch up on the best games you missed out on.

These games offer the highest quality experience available; whether it’s robust game mechanics, stunning graphics, or just a well-written story that tugs at your heartstrings. With the winter sales in full effect, there is no better time to pick up some great games at knockdown prices.

So we present the five best games that you most likely haven’t played this year, but definitely should and wished you picked up sooner. The following is in no particular order and has been made in consideration of a range of platforms and genres.

Best underrated games

Another Crab’s Treasure

Release Date: April 25, 2024

Cost: $29.99

Available platforms: Xbox, Steam, PlayStation, Nintendo

Another Crab’s Treasure is one of the most charming souls-like games worth playing in 2024, but don’t let its colorful style fool you. The game is no less challenging than its peers, combining the iconic melee combat pioneered by FromSoftware with RPG exploration. Players can collect various shells and weapons to create builds that suit their preferred playstyle, offering extensive customization. Xbox players can look forward to accessing this title with a Game Pass subscription, but everyone else can still get in on the underwater adventure for a reasonable price.

Metaphor: ReFantazio

Release Date: October 11, 2024

Cost: $69.99

Available platforms: Steam, PlayStation, Xbox

Metaphor: ReFantazio is a turn-based RPG with a twist, combining the best aspects of strategy and action in an anime-themed AAA experience. Out of all the games to make The Game Awards nominations, Metaphor: ReFantazio was a game many weren’t familiar with. The medieval fantasy tells the story of an orphaned boy in his quest to become the next king of the game’s main setting – Euchronia. With an expansive cast of characters based on magical archetypes, the game boasts scale in terms of content and combat depth. If you’re looking for an open-world RPG to lose yourself into in 2025, then Metaphor: ReFantazio might just be the title you’ve been looking for.

Frostpunk 2

Release Date: September 20, 2024

Cost: $44.99

Available platforms: Steam, Xbox

Frostpunk 2 is the long-anticipated sequel to the classic narrative-driven city builder, which became available day one on Game Pass. It is a title that combines the best elements of city building with survival mechanics, creating an emotionally charged experience where every decision counts. Its complex systems, from oil management to moral dilemmas, make Frostpunk 2 stand out as a must-play game in 2024 and beyond.

An announcement has been made for a PlayStation release, but an exact date has yet to be confirmed at the time of writing this article.

Balatro

An announcement has been made that the game will eventually be released on PlayStation, but an exact date has yet to be confirmed.

Release Date: February 20, 2024

Cost: $14.99

Available platforms: Steam, Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo, iOS and Android

Balatro is on the cheaper end of this list, but also one of the most underrated games in 2024. This poker-themed roguelike blends deck-building with strategy, rewarding you with powerful cards the longer you survive. Strategically choosing cards, combining effects, and adapting to randomized elements never gets old. Balatro is a must-play game that provides enough variety, challenge, and satisfaction to make any playthrough worthwhile; making it ideal for quick sessions or extended play. If you aren’t one of the millions who have become addicted to it so far, now is as good a time as any.

Animal Well

Release Date: February 20, 2024

Cost: $24.99

Available platforms: Steam, Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo

Animal Well was the first major game released by influencer-led publisher – Bigmode. The game emphasizes non-linear exploration in a mysterious, interconnected world as players strive to solve a series of environmental puzzles. It’s a title that features stunning pixelated visuals that combine retro charm with modern sensibilities. It offers a meditative yet engaging experience that stands out as one of the best indie games in 2024, and a solid debut title for Big Mode as a gaming publisher.

Plenty more await

2024 has been a pretty decent year for games so there are plenty out there that didn’t make this top five, but if we had to choose, these are the ones we say you should head for first.

The post The Top Five games you missed this year – you still have time to play them appeared first on ReadWrite.

The Nintendo Switch boasts a plethora of titles you can play on the go and on the couch for free. From whimsical platformers to expansive open world adventures, there’s an abundance of quality titles available without spending a dime.

These top-rated Nintendo Switch games warrant owning the multi-functional console, and can be played at no extra cost. Featuring classic characters that stood the test of time, and new faces upholding Nintendo’s high-quality gaming.

This article goes over must have free Nintendo Switch games to play in 2024. The list takes multiple genres into consideration and is in no particular order.

Best Free Nintendo Switch Games: A Top 10 List

10. Pokemon Unite

Release Date: July 21, 2021

Platforms: Switch, iOS, Android

As one of the most popular franchises ever created, Pokemon spans beyond its iconic turn-based formula. Pokemon Unite is the moba entry to the series, where instead of destroying towers players gather points called Aeos energy to deposit in enemy goal zones.

The characters you play as evolve as you progress through the match, unlocking new and more powerful abilities to eliminate the opposition. The game encourages roles such as attacker, defender, speedster, supporter, and all-rounder. The roles themselves are tailored to Pokémon’s strengths, but there’s less rigidity compared to traditional MOBAs.

Pokemon Unite is one of the best multiplayer Switch games available for free, and can be enjoyed by players of all ages.

9. Fortnite

Release Date: July 21, 2017

Platforms: PC, Switch, Xbox, PlayStation 

Fortnite has quickly become the most popular game globally, in large part due to its free price tag. The battle royale genre has taken the playerbase by storm, and Fortnite itself has helped influence many recent titles seeking to cash in on the live-service craze.

What makes Fortnite so popular is its seasonal model, regularly adding updates to keep the game from feeling stale. There are also a variety of collaborative skins and events that happen in-game, such as the upcoming Messi collaboration. 

There are also an abundance of other modes available in Fortnite if battle royale isn’t to your liking, such as the newly updated LEGO Fortnite mode.

Fortnite is available on the Nintendo Switch, however players will need to have Nintendo Switch online if they wish to access its multiplayer features.

8. Fall Guys

Release Date: August 4, 2020

Platforms: PC, Switch, Xbox, PlayStation

Fall Guys is the party royale game to play. Players compete in a game show by navigating through a series of courses to claim the crown. There are a variety of elaborate courses to learn to master as you compete against the rest of the lobby in a race to the finish.

The game also includes a custom mode where players can create their own courses and share with others online, making them as difficult or chaotic as they please.

Fall Guys is free to download as one of the top rated Nintendo Switch games to play. Players can purchase collaborative skins and victory emotes through the in-game shop, allowing players to dress up as some of their favorite characters.

7. Overwatch 2

Release Date: August 10, 2023

Platforms: PC, Switch, Xbox, PlayStation 

Despite the lack of a promised PVE campaign, Overwatch 2 is still going strong with seasonal updates. The iconic hero shooter is free to download on the Nintendo Switch, where players can get their hands on the latest Scottish tank hero – Hazard.

Overwatch is a popular first person shooter with MOBA mechanics, encouraging teamwork with damage, tank, and support heroes. it boasts a current roster of 42 international heroes battling it out in 5v5 formats. Players have fallen in love with the unique skill sets of each hero and their unique lore profile, on top of an abundance of cosmetic skins to boot.

Overwatch 2 still remains a popular Switch game despite it shortcomings. New players can look forward to a plethora of content to explore and master upon loading the game.

6. Dauntless

Release Date: September 26, 2019

Platforms: PC, Switch, Xbox, PlayStation

Dauntless is a solid live service alternative for those who want to experience the Monster Hunter magic without paying the AAA price tag. Dauntless boasts a variety of colourful Behemoths to hunt in order to obtain powerful gear and weapons.

The game is constantly getting updated with new events and behemoths to take down, all of which you can enjoy with friends online. It supports cross-platform gameplay, so friends can play together regardless of their device

Its straightforward systems and accessibility features make it one of the easier monster hunting games to play for both casual and experienced gamers to enjoy.

5. Apex Legends

Release Date: February 4, 2019

Platforms: PC, Switch, Xbox, PlayStation 

Apex Legends combines elements of both hero shooters and battle royales into one complete package – all for free. The game has a diverse roster of legends, each of whom are divided into unique classes based one their specific abilities. For example recon legends gather intel on enemy positions, while controllers bunker down and defend a position by laying down traps.

Respawn entertainment regularly releases updates for Apex Legends, some of which has ties to Titanfall lore. New legends, maps, modes, and skins are released on a frequent basis as a live service.

If you enjoy fast paced, first person hero shooter action, then Apex Legends might be a solid choice for you as a top rated Switch game.

4. Rocket League

Release Date: July 7, 2015

Platforms: PC, Switch, Xbox, PlayStation

Rocket League is a highly rated Switch game because of its unique gameplay premise, combining rocket paired racing with soccer. Race along walls or spiral through the air as your team tries to hit the ball in the enemy goal post.

If soccer isn’t to your liking, Rocket League also feature other sports such as basketball and hockey in limited time modes for all sports fans to enjoy.

The basic mechanics, like driving and hitting the ball, are straightforward, allowing newcomers to enjoy it right away. But advanced mechanics like aerials, dribbling, and flicks offer a skill ceiling that keeps players coming back to improve.

It’s a tough game to master, but one that’s incredibly satisfying and rewarding once you’re behind the wheel.

3. Brawlhalla

Release Date: October 17, 2017

Platforms: PC, Switch, Xbox, PlayStation, iOS, Android

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is the best in its genre, but Brawlhalla is a great free option for those looking to scratch that side scrolling beat ’em up itch. It supports cross-platform play, allowing players on PC, consoles, and mobile devices to compete seamlessly against each other.

The games itself offers a large roster of characters to play as, including skins and characters from other Ubisoft franchises as part of its collaborative updates. You can play as Ezio from Assassin’s creed, or the iconic Rayman himself.

Brawlhalla’s controls are intuitive and easy to learn, but the game offers significant depth for those who want to master it. The mechanics, like precise dodging, string combos, and weapon-specific skills, cater to both casual and competitive players.

2. Sky: Children of the Light

Release Date: July 18, 2019

Platforms: PC, Switch, PlayStation, iOS

Sky: Children of the Light is one of the best family friendly switch games to play in 2024. The game features breath-taking graphics with a focus on ethereal, dreamlike environments. From expansive skies to mystical caves, the art style creates an immersive, almost meditative experience.

The game is designed to be accessible to players of all ages and skill levels. Its intuitive controls and gentle difficulty curve allow casual players to enjoy it while still offering depth for more dedicated players. It’s still far from being a challenging game, opting for a more relaxing gameplay above all else.

There really isn’t a game like it available on the Nintendo Store, and it is free to boot. It’s a game worth installing to see for yourself, and its lack of an up front charge means you have nothing to lose.

1. Warframe

Release Date: March 25, 2013

Platforms: PC, Switch, Xbox, PlayStation 

If you’ve ever wanted to see what all the fuss is about for looter shooters, Warframe is a great title to dive into on the Nintendo Switch. one of the most popular Nintendo Switch games available for free, there’s still a lot of content available for players who decide not to spend any cash.

Warframe is a fast paced third person shooter, with a parkour system that allows players to dash, slide, wall-run and glide across the map. Players can use a mix of melee, ranged, and ability-based combat, tailoring their playstyle to suit their preferences.

With over 50 unique Warframes available to earn, there’s a lot of replay value on offer. The developers, Digital Extremes, consistently release updates, including new Warframes, missions, and even open-world expansions. You’ll wan tot jump in ahead of the upcoming Warframe 1999 update coming in December, 2024.

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External console coolers have a long history of being pointless additions. While it is important to keep your console from overheating, coolers tend to create more problems than solutions.

The latest Artic fans by SCRY seek to rise above this as the first AI-powered cooling system. But is this a product that will actually have lasting benefits, or is it just a load of hot air?

We review the SCRY Artic S PS5 Slim coolers, and Nitro Flash SSD heatsink, to help you decide if it is a must-have gadget.

Gaming Just Got Cooler

The Kickstarter project is a sign that there is a demand for an effective cooling solution. Keeping low temperatures in the PS5 is important if you are looking to prolong the lifespan of the console. While Sony has added features to keep the PS5 consoles cooler, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

There are currently three models available for each PS5 console available: Artic, Artic S, and Artic Pro.

We were sent the SCRY Artic S PS5 Slim coolers, which are sleeker in design compared to most competitors. When fitted into the back it looks like a natural extension of the console and doesn’t stick out in a way that’s intrusive.

Fitting the coolers is also hassle-free. You simply slide the wedge into the top vent at the rear end of the console, and connect the fan to the lower USB port. The cooler does feature an additional SuperSpeed USB-A 3.1 port, so you’re not sacrificing connectivity options upon installation.

The dimensions of the SCRY Arctic S cooler are approximately 11.14 inches in length, 2.76 inches in width, and 1.42 inches in height. There are four Hyper fluid fans in total, featuring a fairly basic lighting system.

The fans are encased in a black plastic chassis, which does feel rather cheap given its high price tag outside of the Early Bird sale.

Nitro Flash Heat Sink

The aluminum heat sink itself is a nice addition for those looking to fully safeguard their PS5, which entails protecting any storage data. Sony has made the latest PS5 models easier than ever to install additional SSD drives. So installing both the SSD drive and the heatsink is a relatively simple process

However, it is important to note that the heat sink is made specifically for the NVME M.2 2280 SSD and does not come with the drive. In that regard your options are rather limited if you prefer using other drives.

It’s mainly designed to be used with the Nitro Move Enclosure SSD. The drive itself boasts 10 Gbps of transfer speed and is designed to handle 100w of passthrough charging. It is also compatible with Windows PCs.

Flashy But Noisy

The main highlight of these coolers is the AI integration. Simply put, an AI thermal chip monitors the temperature of the console and adjusts fan speeds accordingly. This means that the fan’s performance will change as you play,  whether it’s navigating through the menus or loading up a game.

SCRY claims that the fans are as loud as 38 dB. However, the fans are still fairly loud when pushed to the max, especially when booting up a taxing game. The noise is noticeable even with headphones on, at least ones without noise cancellation.

This may be a deal breaker for some, particularly if you prefer playing at a desk as opposed to a lounge where you’re typically much further away from the console.

From my experience, it’s not too distracting, and something you eventually ignore when you’re engrossed in the best PS5 games. Fans and noise tend to come hand in hand and is a sacrifice you make if you’re not willing to invest in more expensive options. It’s not loud enough to be heard from another room, but players with thin walls should still be cautious.

You’ll often find that so many coolers situated at the back of the console blow air into the vents. As a result, some coolers become counterintuitive since the vents are designed to expel air and prevent overheating. The fans themselves work to pull air out of the system to boost the console’s natural airflow 30% more than standard competitors.

Smart Chill, Bigger Thrill

Every gaming gadget out there claims to improve the performance of games. While in some cases it’s technically true, the overall impact is usually too small to be noticeable. The Artic S’s effect on performance varies drastically depending on your gaming habits.

Players who occasionally hop onto games every now and then aren’t likely to see any changes to their games. If you’re someone with limited time to play, then any difference made with the fans installed is negligible at best.

Time tends to fly by when you are having fun, and these fans help ensure the fun doesn’t come at the cost of your console. SCRY’s testing showed the fans reduced the console’s temperature by 50°F, which may seem slight but can significantly prolong its lifespan. The system remained warm but ran games smoothly throughout the day.

This a great quality of life change where games would often struggle when running for this long, particularly with the heat sink on hand to prevent storage from becoming corrupted or lost. It’s a great peace-of-mind gadget that ensures your console stays in top shape for longer periods of time. It won’t elevate gameplay but will help delay any drop in performance after prolonged gaming.

Conclusion

The SCRY Artic AI-powered coolers are a great solution, with its biggest strength coming from its convenience. However, it isn’t a gadget for everyone, and its impact on performance will vary depending on individual game time.

The installation process of the fans is quick and simple, while still leaving room to build upon. The AI integration ensures it automatically handles adjustments, allowing you to focus more on enjoying the games.

The noise produced by the Hyper fluid fans can be annoying at times. Its price tag, while cheaper to pre-order, is something to consider for those on a smaller budget. Its impact on performance increases with playtime, but casual gamers likely won’t fully benefit from an external cooling system.

Overall, it’s a solid investment for gamers who prioritize performance and want to make the most out of their PS5 consoles.

The Artic, Artic S, Artic Pro, Nitro Flash Heatsink SSDs, and Nitro Move Enclosure SSDs are now available for pre-order through SCRY’s Kickstarter page, which launched on November 20 and ends on December 19, 2024. Early Bird pricing starts at $39 USD, with a full price of $79 USD. 

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