How to Create Your Own Virtual Reality Game [2023]

Video how to make a vr game

VR Game

Table of Contents

Start Small and Build a Solid Foundation

With the incredible popularity of VR headsets like Oculus Rift, virtual reality gaming is poised to be a major part of the gaming industry. If you’ve ever considered becoming a VR developer, this guide is for you. Here, we’ll provide you with some tips on VR, what it’s like to be a VR developer, and how to get started in the business.

What Is a Virtual Reality Game?

A virtual reality game is an immersive experience that puts players into a fully realized 3D environment, allowing them to interact with the elements of that world. This is achieved by wearing a VR headset or goggles.

Creating a VR game is not an easy task. It requires a solid background in computer programming and VR development. Whether you’re creating a high-end PC VR game or a mobile VR game for iPhone, you’ll need extensive knowledge. In fact, breaking into professional VR gaming can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $300,000.

To play VR games, you’ll need a VR headset, a phone, a PC, or a game console that supports virtual reality gaming. The cost of VR games varies, but they are relatively inexpensive compared to console games, typically priced at $5-$15.

VR Basic Concepts

VR Basic Concept

Set the Scene

The scene is the virtual environment where the game takes place. It includes all the game objects and assets.

Game Assets

These are the elements that populate the scene of your game, such as characters, lights, and props.

VR Game Behavior

This is where you define how different aspects of the game interact with each other. A basic understanding of math is helpful in this area.

Details, Details, Details

This involves the specific aspects of the game assets, such as textures, bump mapping, and meshes.

Virtual Reality Games

To enjoy virtual reality gaming, you’ll need a VR headset. The price of VR headsets can range from $500 to $800, depending on the quality and brand.

Physical space is also important for VR gaming, especially for games that require extensive physical activity.

Some popular virtual reality games include:

Batman: Arkham VR
Beat Saber
Tetris Effect
Half-Life: Alyx
Superhot
Pistol Whip
Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes

Among these, Beat Saber has received awards for its fast-paced action.

Learn to Build a Virtual Game

VR Apps

If you’re looking for VR apps, there are many options available. Here are some of the best free VR apps for Android and iPhone:

Best Free VR Apps

For Android:

Google Expeditions
Google Arts and Culture
Cardboard Camera
Discovery VR
GoPro VR
YouTube VR
Zombie Shooter VR

For iPhone:

VRSE
NYT VR
Orbulus
Seene
Jaunt VR
Incell VR
RYOT VR
Sisters: A Virtual Reality Ghost Story

Different phone models are compatible with virtual reality gaming. You can find comprehensive lists to see if your smartphone can access virtual reality games.

How to Become a VR Developer

VR Development

A VR developer creates virtual reality experiences for game consoles, mobile platforms, and PCs. To become a VR developer, you’ll need a strong understanding of computers, coding, and preferably a degree in computer science or a related field. Skills like video editing, 3D modeling, and rendering are also beneficial, as well as experience with game engines like Unity.

Virtual reality games are coded using languages like C++ and C#.

Use the Building Blocks of VR to Guide You

When faced with difficulties in your project, it’s helpful to return to the basics and foundations of virtual reality gaming. Some key aspects to focus on are:

Learning how to make games using engines like Unity or Unreal.
Understanding coding languages like C++ and C#.
Mastering the use of assets to populate your game world.

Master VR Developer Skills

It’s highly recommended to be familiar with at least one coding language. Additionally, being knowledgeable about different game engines and the best VR apps can greatly benefit you. Don’t underestimate the value of collaboration and learning from other VR developers.

Other Considerations

When it comes to VR development, opinions on the best engine can vary. However, many VR developers prefer Unity as a game engine. Once you’ve chosen an engine, ensure that your hardware is capable of handling the demands of VR development. The different aspects of your project, from hardware to game design, can greatly impact the process.

VR Job Opportunities

VR Jobs

The job outlook for VR developers is promising. As virtual reality gaming is considered the future of the industry, job opportunities are expected to increase. Even in the event of a crash in the VR gaming industry, your knowledge and skills will still be valuable for other game-related careers.

Salaries for VR developers can range from $60,000 to $134,000, depending on factors such as skill level and education.

Develop VR and AR Applications

Developing virtual reality and augmented reality games is a creative and intensive endeavor. To avoid burnout, it’s important to set boundaries and create a realistic work schedule. Allow yourself to experiment and push creative boundaries to make your game unique.

VR Headsets

Consider these popular VR headsets for your gaming needs:

Oculus Rift S PC-Powered VR Gaming Headset
Oculus Quest All-in-one VR Gaming Headset – 64GB
HTC Vive Cosmos Elite Virtual Reality System
Sony PlayStation VR

VR Tutorials

If you’re interested in learning more about VR development, check out these invaluable tutorials:

Learn VR Game Development in 2 Hours with Unity – COMPLETE COURSE!
How to Get Started with VR: Intro to Your First Virtual Reality Project
Beginner Tutorial: How To Create a VR Application With Unity
Unity VR Tutorial: How to Build a Robin Hood VR Game From Scratch
How to make a VR game in Unity – Part 1 – Setup, Hand presence, Grabbing object

Remember, creating a virtual reality game takes time and dedication. Embrace the learning process, stay passionate, and enjoy the journey of bringing your virtual worlds to life! Thumbuddy To Love