Over the last 40+ years, George Lucas’ Star Wars has been entertaining sci-fi fans worldwide. With the advent of consumer virtual reality, the franchise has been one of the biggest ambassadors of the technology. So if you love both, here are the Star Wars VR games you need to play on May 4th.
Star Wars VR Games
Early Star Wars VR games like Star Wars: Droid Repair Bay were simple experiences to immerse you in that galaxy far, far away. Now though, they offer far more exciting, interactive content with narratives that are canon. Whether you want to create that ultimate Star Wars den or wield the Force like a Jedi, there’s definitely something here for fans.
Vader Immortal: A Star Wars VR Series
Released in three episodes, Vader Immortal: A Star Wars VR Series is classed more as an interactive experience than a fully-fledged videogame. It is heavily story-driven, where you play a smuggler who discovers they have force powers whilst captured on Darth Vader’s base on Mustafar. Each episode delves deeper into a mystery involving Vader, culminating in fighting the legendary Sith Lord.
An interactive experience it may be, however, Vader Immortal: A Star Wars VR Series allows you to wield force powers unlocking new abilities in each episode. Additionally, aside from the main campaign, there’s the Lightsaber Dojo. This is a training mode where you get to practice those lightsaber skills across ever-increasing waves of enemies.
Star Wars Pinball VR
Very different from the rest of this Star Wars selection is Zen Studios’ Star Wars Pinball VR. Set inside a cool Star Wars-themed den, there are eight pinball tables to enjoy. Some are based on the films whilst others weave in other aspects of the franchise. Play The Mandalorian table to call the infamous bounty hunter into action, or how about the classic Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope table?
Each table has its own unique set of challenges to complete. As you do you’ll be able to unlock more customisation options for your Star Wars cave, adding new models to the shelves and posters to the walls. There’s even a cantina jukebox full of John Williams music to create the perfect atmosphere.
Star Wars: Squadrons
Star Wars has some of the most iconic spaceships going. Every fan imagines themselves in the seat of an X-Wing or a TIE Fighter. The best way to experience the thrill of space combat is with Star Wars: Squadrons. Playable in VR and in non-VR modes, the game is available on most platforms and is quite often discounted so it is usually a bargain purchase.
There’s a single-player campaign which switches you between Rebel and Imperial fighter craft, providing a range of scenarios and vehicles. In addition to the story mode, there’s a multiplayer mode. Star Wars: Squadrons offers two options, a 5v5 dogfight or join your squadron for an epic fleet battle. As you can imagine, this becomes quite a ride in VR.
Star Wars: Tales from the Galaxy’s Edge
If Star Wars: Vader Immortal left you wanting more then Star Wars: Tales from the Galaxy’s Edge should fill that void. Set on the planet of Batuu, you take on the role of a droid repair technician whose ship is attacked by pirates. Taking a break in Seezelslak’s cantina, you can then take on missions around the planet or listen and become part of his legendary tales.
Star Wars: Tales from the Galaxy’s Edge is mainly a first-person shooter (FPS), finding new guns to take out Stormtroopers or using grenades on those pesky pirates. There’s plenty to do, with side missions and mini-games, plus a DLC pack to expand the adventure. And let’s not forget to mention that classic characters like R2-D2 and C-3PO also make an appearance.