If you’re looking to purchase a gift for a VR enthusiast, the good news is that there’s a huge range of options. This article covers a range of headsets, games, and accessories that I would highly recommend to any VR gamer. I’ve picked everything on this list based on my own personal experience of using these products. Every has been tried and tested and I’m confident that these are the best VR gifts you can pick, and that whoever receives any of these products will be delighted.
I’ve divided the article into the best VR headsets, games, and accessories so you can jump to the section you might be interested in. I’ve included options for every budget and included approximate pricing where possible.
VR Headsets That Make Great Gifts
VR headsets make fantastic gifts and are the gateway to all VR experiences. With a market teeming with options – ranging from the Oculus Quest 2’s wireless freedom to the high-fidelity HTC Vive Pro 2 – it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect fit. Thankfully, this section will delve deep into all the best options.
The most important thing to consider is whether to opt for a standalone VR headset or a VR headset that needs to be attached to a gaming PC to function. If the recipient of your gift doesn’t have a powerful gaming PC, then the best options to go for are Quest 2, Quest 3, or Pico 4. These work without needing any additional hardware, although they can be connected to a gaming PC to play PC VR content if desired, making them highly versatile headsets.
If you know that the person you’re buying for has a gaming PC and wants a high-end VR experience, then the HTC Vive Pro 2, Valve Index, Pimax Crystal, or HP Reverb G2 are the best options. These must be attached to a VR-ready PC to work.
For Playstation 5 gamers, the best headset to choose is the PSVR 2, which provides a terrific VR experience with the Playstation 5.
Let’s look at each VR headset to help you pick the best one.
Quest 2
The Meta Quest 2 remains one of the best standalone VR headsets in 2023. This successor to the original Oculus Quest offers improved specs all around, including higher resolution displays, a faster processor, and more memory. The Quest 2 doesn’t require a PC or wires to dive into amazing VR worlds. It features hand tracking and works with Touch controllers for immersive interaction.
With access to the Quest store and App Lab experiments, there’s a huge variety of games and apps to enjoy. The Quest 2 starts at $299 for the 128GB version, making it an affordable entry point for VR. Just keep in mind you may want to invest in some accessories like a carrying case and VR cover facial interface for additional comfort and protection.
Quest 3
For the VR enthusiast who doesn’t mind waiting, consider holding out for the release of the Meta Quest 3 in October 2023. This new headset is rumored to have several enhancements over the Quest 2, including higher resolution displays, improved lenses, a slimmer and lighter design, eye and face tracking capabilities, and even more powerful performance.
Leaked specs point to pancake lenses for a wider field of view, updated Qualcomm Snapdragon processors, increased RAM and storage, and backwards compatibility with Quest 2 games and apps. The Quest 3 starts at $499.99 but may be worth it for those wanting the latest and greatest standalone VR experience from Meta when it launches later this year. If you’re looking for the hottest VR headset of 2023, this is it. It is one of the best VR gifts you can buy for someone wanting to get started with VR.
Pico 4
The Pico 4 offers stiff competition to the Meta Quest 2 as a premium standalone VR headset. This all-in-one device doesn’t need a PC or wires to deliver crisp graphics and immersive virtual worlds. Key features of the consumer version include high-resolution displays with smooth 120Hz refresh rates, lightweight design, built-in speakers, and controllers with six degrees of freedom motion tracking.
With access to apps on the Pico store, there’s plenty to keep users entertained, although it doesn’t have as many games and apps available as there are on Quest 2. Starting at $429, the Pico 4 costs a bit more than the Quest 2 but offers a sleek design and crisp visuals.
PSVR 2
For PlayStation gamers, the PSVR 2 is the new virtual reality headset to get excited about. Released in February 2023, the PSVR 2 works exclusively with the PlayStation 5 to deliver immersive VR gaming experiences. It features dual OLED displays with 2000 x 2040 resolution per eye, for crisper graphics compared to the original PSVR.
The PSVR 2 headset has a 110-degree field of view and can refresh at 90Hz or 120Hz for smooth visuals. It also tracks movement with embedded cameras and works with the new Sense controllers for intuitive interaction in VR worlds.
While you’ll need a PS5 console to use it, the PSVR 2 provides PlayStation gamers with a cutting-edge VR system for playing Sony exclusives like Horizon Call of the Mountain. The PSVR 2 pushes console VR to new heights. The PSVR 2 normally costs $549.99.
HTC Vive Pro 2
For the VR enthusiast who already has a capable gaming PC, the HTC Vive Pro 2 is a top-of-the-line headset gift idea. This high-resolution headset connects to a computer to deliver stunningly crisp visuals and immersive experiences. Key features include dual 2.5K displays with 120Hz refresh rates, a wide 120-degree field of view, built-in headphones with 3D spatial audio, inside-out tracking, and SteamVR compatibility for access to lots of great VR content.
The Vive Pro 2 provides a very premium VR experience thanks to the crystal clear graphics and comfortable design. Just keep in mind this headset costs $799, so it’s a significant investment, and you will also need base stations and controllers that are sold separately. You can purchase a full bundle of everything you will need for $1,399.00. However, for the VR power user, the Vive Pro 2 provides incredible high-end VR immersion.
Pimax Crystal
The Pimax Crystal is a premium PC-connected VR headset released in Spring 2023. It features dual 2880×2880 pixel QLED displays adding up to 5K resolution visuals at 90/120Hz refresh rates. The Crystal uses aspheric optical lenses with a 140-degree diagonal field of view for immersive VR worlds.
This headset connects to a gaming PC via DisplayPort and requires a computer with serious graphical capabilities to power its high resolution. The Pimax Crystal is priced around $1,600, putting it at the high end of premium VR headsets. Key features include replaceable facial interfaces, integrated headphones, and inside-out tracking.
Pimax Crystal is particularly good for VR gamers who enjoy VR racing or flight simulation and want cutting-edge visual fidelity and are willing to pay top dollar. The Pimax Crystal delivers an unparalleled level of realism and immersion when connected to a VR-ready gaming rig.
HP Reverb G2
The HP Reverb G2 is a strong choice for VR fans looking for crisp visuals and comfort in a Windows-compatible headset. Designed in collaboration with Valve and Microsoft, the Reverb G2 features dual 2160 x 2160 LCD displays for a stellar combined resolution of 4320 x 2160 pixels. With an extensive 114-degree field of view and integrated headphones and mic, the Reverb G2 provides an immersive PCVR experience.
Tracking is handled via four cameras for accurate inside-out monitoring. The headstrap and face cushioning are very comfortable for extended wear. Setup is straightforward with the right gaming PC and Windows Mixed Reality support. While the controllers could be more refined, the Reverb G2’s stellar visuals make it a go-to recommendation for VR gamers and sim fans focused on display quality.
It retails for $599, although there are often terrific deals available to get it at a significant discount. The HP Reverb G2 is three years old now, but it still offers fantastic visuals and excellent value for money.
Best VR Games That Make Great Gifts
This next section looks at the very best VR games that make the best VR gifts and will provide hours of fun for whoever receives them. I have played each of these games for many hours and thoroughly recommend them as being some of the best VR experiences you can have today.
Most of these games need to be purchased as digital downloads on either the Meta Quest Oculus store or on Steam. You can purchase a gift code for individual games on the Meta Quest store or on Steam, or purchase a gift card to let the recipient choose their own game.
Walkabout Mini Golf
Walkabout Mini Golf is widely considered one of the best VR games available and it is one that almost everyone will love, so is a perfect gift if you’re not sure what to buy. This physics-based mini-golf game can be played solo or multiplayer, with highly detailed courses set across multiple unique environments.
Intuitive motion controls allow players to swing their controller in a surprisingly realistic manner and putt with precision while racking up scores on challenging holes. With fun collectibles and mini-games to mix things up and both competitive and casual gameplay modes, Walkabout Mini Golf offers hours of replayable fun. Best of all, it’s available on all major VR headsets including Meta Quest 2, PSVR, and PC VR systems.
Gorilla Tag
Gorilla Tag is a wildly popular free VR game on the Meta Quest store that’s perfect for getting players active. The premise is simple – you play as a gorilla and chase other players around imaginative maps full of obstacles, using your arms to swing and climb. The fast-paced gameplay has you sprinting, jumping, and climbing through levels to try and catch opponents or avoid being tagged.
It’s an incredibly fun workout that really gets your heart pumping. Gorilla Tag supports large multiplayer games, so you can swing around with friends or make new ones online. It’s also available on Steam for $20 and is compatible with major VR headsets like Meta Quest, Valve Index, and HTC Vive for active and social gameplay.
Beat Saber
Beat Saber has become one of the most popular and best-selling VR games of all time, and for good reason. This immensely fun rhythm game has players slicing through blocks representing musical beats using dual lightsabers. As electronic dance music plays, you match the direction and color of the incoming blocks perfectly in time with the song.
It’s an exhilarating test of coordination and reaction time. With a great tracklist across multiple music genres and difficulty modes suitable for beginners and experts alike, Beat Saber offers endless replayability. It’s also got a vibrant modding community that has expanded the song options. Available on all major VR headsets, Beat Saber is a surefire way to get your heart pumping and have a blast swinging lightsabers to music in VR. Having purchased Beat saber for several people, I can confidently say that this is one of the best VR gifts to choose for someone who already has a VR headset ready to go.
Golf+
Golf+ is widely considered the best virtual reality golfing game available but is exclusive to Meta’s Quest headsets. This immersive golf sim provides responsive swing mechanics and accurate ball physics for an authentic experience. While the graphics are stylized due to Quest hardware limitations, the courses are modeled precisely with great attention to detail.
Golf+ can be played solo or multiplayer with up to 4 people online. There are different game modes to take on challenges or practice casually. The developers have partnered with the PGA Tour to offer licensed real-world courses as paid DLC add-ons.
For Meta Quest owners who love virtual golf, Golf+ is a must-have purchase currently priced at $29.99. It captures the essence of golf through well-crafted gameplay and mechanics specifically built for VR on Quest headsets. For added dimension, you can get a VR golf club controller attachment, which makes a huge difference to how realistic the game feels.
Eleven Table Tennis
For VR gamers seeking a hyper-realistic table tennis simulation, look no further than Eleven Table Tennis. This game uses advanced physics to recreate the experience of playing ping pong in remarkable detail. With motion controllers, you can serve, smash, and slice as if holding a real paddle. The ball behaves just like the real thing, with spins, bounces, and strokes feeling authentic.
Eleven Table Tennis supports single-player training modes to improve skills, along with online multiplayer against opponents worldwide. With appealing environments and incredibly responsive gameplay, it’s the best way to enjoy virtual table tennis. The game is available on most major VR headsets like Meta Quest 2 and quest 3, and all PC VR headsets including. For table tennis fans, Eleven Table Tennis is a must-have.
Premium Bowling
Premium Bowling stands out as the best VR bowling game by some distance. This immersive bowling game accurately recreates the sights, sounds, and feel of bowling in real life. The physics are spot-on, with the balls and pins reacting just as they do in real life. Environments range from local alleys to flashy venues, all modeled with great detail.
With solo and online multiplayer modes, Premium Bowling is perfect for casual fun or competitive games against others. It’s available on major VR platforms including Meta Quest, and all PC VR headsets that are able to play games using Steam VR, including Vive, Rift, Index, and HP Reverb G2. For VR gamers who want to bowl perfect games without leaving home, Premium Bowling is the top choice that feels truly authentic from start to finish.
Job Simulator
Job Simulator is a hilarious and lighthearted VR game that puts players in absurd virtual jobs. You’ll take on various tasks in different jobs like cooking, store clerk, and auto mechanic. But instead of doing work properly, the real goal is to creatively cause mayhem. Smash plates in the kitchen, trash the convenience store, and rip apart cars using intuitive VR motion controls.
The cartoonish art style and humorous writing make Job Simulator a blast as you make a mess of each new workplace. With plenty of wacky ways to goof off and secrets to uncover, Job Simulator offers hours of goofy fun. It’s available on all major VR platforms and is a great choice for VR gamers seeking silly, sandbox-style gameplay.
ForeVR Darts
ForeVR Darts brings one of the world’s classic pub games into immersive virtual reality. This darts simulation lets you play a range of game modes in beautifully rendered bars and environments. Using motion controllers, you can throw darts with an authentic throwing action, or even use hand tracking to increase the immersion factor further. ForeVR Darts features both single-player and multiplayer options so you can challenge friends near and far.
With personality-filled environments, unlockable customization, and even mini-games, ForeVR Darts delivers hours of engaging gameplay. It’s available on Meta Quest VR headsets and is a great option for family game nights or parties. If you love the tactile joy of throwing darts, ForeVR Darts lets you experience it from the comfort of your home in VR. ForeVR also has several other games, ForeVR Bowling, ForeVR Pool, and ForeVR Cornhole, which provide similar experiences for each respective sport.
Microsoft Flight Simulator
Microsoft Flight Simulator is an incredible option for any VR flight simulation enthusiast. Combining meticulous attention to detail with jaw-dropping realism, this title offers a globe-spanning aerial experience that leaves competitors grounded.
Microsoft Flight Simulator requires a powerful gaming PC to run it and a PC VR headset such as the HP Reverb G2, HTC Vive Pro 2, or Pimax Crystal. While it may require a beefier PC setup for optimal performance, the investment is well worth it. If you’ve ever wanted to fly over the pyramids or navigate through a storm while safely grounded in your living room, this is the ultimate gift for you or any aviation-obsessed individual in your life.
Assetto Corsa
For those who’d rather stick to the racetrack than take to the skies, Assetto Corsa is one of the best VR racing games you can buy. Renowned for its laser-focused realism and physics engine, this game delivers an unparalleled driving experience in VR.
From the tactile feedback to the subtle nuances in tire grip, every element screams authenticity. With an impressive roster of cars and tracks, Assetto Corsa offers endless replayability. Assetto Corsa has been around for years, and whilst there are plenty of newer VR racing sims, Assetto Corsa still stands out as my favorite.
Bear in mind that this is a PC-only VR experience, so you’ll need a gaming PC and a VR headset that connects to your computer such as the HTC Vive Pro 2, Valve Index, or Pimax Crystal. It is also highly recommended to play this game with a racing wheel and pedals, although it can be played with a gaming controller. If you’ve got a VR setup and a need for speed, gifting this game is like handing over the keys to a virtual sports car – no insurance needed.
Blade And Sorcery
Blade and Sorcery has earned a reputation as one of the best melee combat games in VR. This medieval fantasy game puts you in battle against enemies, with an arsenal of weapons to slash, smash, and stab your foes. The advanced physics system allows for incredibly realistic combat, whether you’re using swords, axes, maces, or even your bare hands.
In addition to campaign missions, an endless wave mode provides hours of hack-and-slash action. With detailed dismemberment effects and the ability to creatively execute enemies in visceral ways, Blade and Sorcery delivers cathartic virtual violence. It’s available on Steam, but there is also a separate version on the Oculus store for Quest headsets.
Moss: Book 2
Moss: Book 2 is the highly anticipated sequel to the popular VR adventure game Moss. Once again you guide the adorable mouse Quill through fantastical environments full of puzzles, enemies, and secrets. This third-person VR game has you directly interacting with the world to aid Quill, creating an engaging bond.
Moss: Book 2 expands the story, gameplay, and world with new abilities, weapons, and challenges. With charming characters, immersive level design, and clever puzzle solving, Moss: Book 2 is a magical VR journey. It’s available on all major VR platforms and provides an enchanting adventure filled with heartwarming gameplay.
Half-Life: Alyx
Half-Life: Alyx is a landmark VR game set in the acclaimed Half-Life universe. Taking place between the events of Half-Life and Half-Life 2, you play as Alyx Vance as she fights against the alien Combine’s occupation of Earth. This story-driven first-person shooter features Valve’s signature worldbuilding and puzzles, now experienced in stunning virtual reality.
The interactive environments, visceral combat, and gravity gloves that let you manipulate objects make Half-Life: Alyx an innovative showpiece for VR gaming. It’s available for PC-based VR headsets via the Steam store. For VR gamers, Half-Life: Alyx is quite simply one of the most engrossing and polished experiences available.
The Walking Dead: Saints And Sinners
The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners immerses you in the zombie apocalypse based on the hit franchise. Set in New Orleans, you scavenge for supplies and weapons to survive against hordes of undead walkers and hostile groups. This action RPG features physics-based zombie kills where you can stab, bludgeon, or slash enemies up close.
There’s a strong emphasis on crafting, looting, and making moral choices that shape the narrative. With a rich atmospheric world and terrifying undead threats around every corner, The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners captures the essence of survival horror in VR. It’s available on all major VR platforms for $39.99. For VR gamers and Walking Dead fans, it’s a tense, visceral experience.
VR Accessories That Make Perfect Gifts
If you’re searching for a gift that goes beyond the realm of games and headsets, these VR accessories might be a great option. There are loads of products that can enhance immersion, optimize comfort, and elevate gameplay, serving as the cherry on top of any VR setup. Whether you’re shopping for a seasoned VR enthusiast or a newcomer eager to maximize their virtual escapades, this section will guide you through some of the best VR gifts that can transform any VR experience from good to extraordinary.
Kiwi Design Extended Controller Grips For Quest 2
The Kiwi Design Extended Controller Grips are a very popular accessory for enhancing the comfort and usability of the Meta Quest 2 Touch controllers. These grips attach seamlessly to the controllers and provide improved grip and comfort, as well as adjustable hand straps. This helps keep the controllers securely in your hands during intense gameplay.
The extended controller grips also improve the ergonomics by allowing you to hold the controllers more naturally, particularly for people with larger hands. These simple add-ons make long VR sessions much easier on your hands. Kiwi Design’s accessories are well-built and durable. If you know someone who spends a lot of time in VR with their Meta Quest 2, these extended grips make for an extremely practical gift.
Meta Quest 2 Elite Strap With Battery
For those who find the stock strap of the Quest 2 lacking in comfort and battery life, the Meta Quest 2 Elite Strap with Battery is a game-changing upgrade. This accessory combines ergonomic design with an integrated battery, effectively doubling your playtime while distributing weight more evenly across the head. Whether you’re diving into a lengthy VR flight simulator session or engrossed in an all-night gaming marathon, this strap ensures you’ll do so without any discomfort or the anxiety of seeing a low-battery warning.
VR Cover Upgraded Facial Interface
The default facial interfaces that ship with a lot of VR headsets often do a reasonable job, but upgrading to a more comfortable face cushion can make a huge difference to your enjoyment of VR. Whether you need a wipe-clean face cushion that won’t get soaked in sweat after a workout, a more comfortable face cushion, or one that provides more room for you to wear your glasses, there are loads of options available.
VR Cover is a company that provides a great selection of quality facial interfaces that are tailored to a range of different users. There make facial interfaces for most of the popular headsets and I’ve always been impressed by the quality of their products.
ZyberVR Golf Club Handle
The ZyberVR Golf Club Handle is an excellent accessory for VR golfers looking to enhance immersion. This sturdy handle attaches to Quest 2 controllers, providing a realistic golf grip. Made from aluminum with a silicone cover, the ZyberVR handle is manufactured for Quest 2 and locks the controllers firmly in place.
Swinging the handle makes VR golf games like Golf+ and Walkabout Mini Golf feel more authentic. While the center of gravity differs from an actual club, the similar weight still improves shot consistency. The ZyberVR Golf Club Handle is an affordable upgrade that most VR golfers will appreciate. It enables more accurate swings and greatly increases enjoyment. For Quest 2 owners serious about virtual golf, this controller add-on is highly recommended by reviewers.
Kiwi Design Comfort Head Strap For Quest 2
The default elastic head strap that comes with the Meta Quest 2 can become uncomfortable during longer VR play sessions. An easy upgrade is the Kiwi Design Comfort Head Strap for Quest 2. This replacement head strap uses a padded halo design that significantly improves comfort and stability.
The weight of the Quest 2 is spread across the top and back of your head rather than pushing down on your face. Adjustable velcro and a rotating dial allow you to find the perfect fit. The Kiwi Design head strap is an affordable accessory to help extend comfortable VR usage. It’s easy to install and a great gift idea for the Quest 2 owner who wants more pleasurable, long-term wear.
AMVR Neck Hanging Power Bank
The AMVR Neck Hanging Power Bank is a unique VR accessory that extends playtime for headsets like Quest 2 and Pico 4. This power bank hangs around your neck, keeping its 8000mAh battery off the headset for comfort. A flexible connecting cable plugs into your headset’s USB-C port. Although it won’t win any style awards, the power bank is extremely comfortable for long VR sessions, with the cable staying out of the way.
It can more than double the Quest 2 battery life. While not made of the most premium materials, the AMVR power bank delivers on its core promise of prolonging wireless VR at an affordable price. For under $40, it’s a compelling option to enhance untethered freedom.
ZyberVR Magnetic VR Battery Pack
The ZyberVR Magnetic VR Battery Pack is a useful accessory that extends playtime for Quest 2, Quest Pro, and most other standalone VR headsets. This compact 5000mAh battery magnetically attaches to the side of headsets, providing around 2 extra hours of wireless gameplay. While easy to set up and use, the clip mounting system could be more secure during vigorous play.
The ZyberVR battery pack is a highly affordable way to double the battery life of most standalone VR headsets. Whilst there are other battery solutions, such as the Elite Strap with Battery that are overall better products, the value for money from the ZyberVR battery pack is excellent.