Best VR Games for Standalone Headsets Meta Quest

1. What are standalone VR headsets and why are they better than wired ones

All VR headsets are divided into two types: wired (dependent on a PC or console) and standalone. The first type consists of devices like Valve Index, HTC Vive, or Oculus Rift, which only work when connected to a powerful gaming computer. They require complex setup, a lot of cables, and for proper gameplay — external room sensors as well. Yes, such systems provide top-notch graphics, but they are expensive and greatly limit freedom of movement.

Standalone VR headsets are devices that work without a computer and cables. They already have everything necessary inside: their own processor, video chip, operating system, and built-in motion tracking sensors. The most popular headset of this type is Meta Quest.

Advantages of standalone VR headsets:

• Do not require connection to a computer or console.
• No wires or external equipment.
• Install games directly through the built-in store.
• Compact and convenient to use.

It is worth noting that the standalone VR headset market includes not only mass models such as Meta Quest 3/3S and Pico 4 Ultra, but also more advanced or specialized devices.

For instance, Apple Vision Pro is equipped with a high-quality display and unique interface logic. However, the device is primarily oriented towards multimedia and professional scenarios. The gaming functionality in it is secondary, and the cost is noticeably above the market average.

There are also corporate-level solutions — Meta Quest Pro, Lynx R1, and several Chinese models. Despite supporting standalone mode, they are less widespread.

In this article, we have collected games officially available on standalone headsets of the Meta Quest line — including Quest 2, Quest 3, Quest 3S, and Quest Pro. All of them run without a PC connection and are fully adapted to the Meta ecosystem, providing the best examples of quality content for standalone VR gaming.

2. Frequently Asked Questions

2.1 How much memory is needed for standalone VR games?

Most modern games take up 2 to 15 GB. The recommended memory size is at least 128 GB, but if you plan to install many games, it is better to choose a version with 256 GB or more.

2.2 Are there any free VR games on Meta Quest?

Yes, free games and demos are available in the Meta store. There are also regular offers with temporarily free titles.

2.3 Can VR games be launched on Meta Quest without network connection?

Yes, most games do not require a constant internet connection. After installation, you can launch them in offline mode, except for online projects and multiplayer.

2.4 What else can be done in VR besides gaming?

In addition to games, VR offers applications for fitness, work, creativity, education, and video watching. Meta Quest features YouTube VR, virtual cinemas, 3D drawing, a browser, and even a work environment with virtual monitors.

3. Best VR Games for Meta Quest

3.1 Beat Saber

• Genre: music arcade
• Headset support: Meta Quest 3S, Meta Quest 3, Meta Quest Pro, Meta Quest 2

Beat Saber is a cult music arcade game where the player slices blocks with lightsabers to the rhythm of the music, dodging obstacles. The simple and understandable mechanics, high dynamics, stylish neon graphics, and constant updates with new tracks have made the game a hit and an ideal choice for both beginners and experienced VR users.

Pros:

• Motivates movement and develops a sense of rhythm
• Large selection of songs, including paid and free ones
• Excellent optimization for standalone headsets

Cons:

• Requires quite a bit of free space
• Can become quickly boring without extensions or DLC
• No story mode

3.2 Superhot VR

• Genre: first-person shooter / action-puzzle
• Headset support: Meta Quest 3S, Meta Quest 3, Meta Quest Pro, Meta Quest 2, Meta Quest

Superhot VR is an unusual shooter where time only moves when you move. Thanks to this mechanic, every shootout turns into a tactical puzzle where it's important not just to shoot, but to plan your actions. The game requires precision, reaction, and good spatial orientation. The minimalist visual style works great even on standalone headsets, and the unique gameplay provides sensations that cannot be replicated in other genres.

Pros:

• Unique time control mechanics
• Suitable for both short and long gaming sessions
• Excellent optimization for standalone headsets
• Complete feeling of being "inside the matrix"

Cons:

• Relatively short campaign
• Tracking challenges may arise if there is little space

3.3 Red Matter 2

• Genre: adventure / puzzle / sci-fi
• Headset support: Meta Quest 3S, Meta Quest 3, Meta Quest Pro, Meta Quest 2

Red Matter 2 is an atmospheric sci-fi adventure with a focus on plot, exploration, and puzzles. Players will explore abandonned scientific complexes, interact with objects, hack systems, and solve logical tasks.

It is one of the most technically impressive VR projects available without a PC connection. The graphics level of the game is close to console standards: detailed environments, quality textures, and realistic visual effects. Red Matter 2 combines a tense atmosphere, cinematic presentation, and thoughtful game design.

Pros:

• One of the most beautiful games on Meta Quest
• Well-thought-out puzzles and story
• Great balance between action and exploration

Cons:

• Lacks dynamics for action lovers
• Single-player mode only
• Requires attention to detail and thoughtful passage

3.4 The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners

• Genre: survival / action / first-person horror
• Headset support: Meta Quest Pro, Meta Quest 2, Meta Quest, Meta Quest 3S, Meta Quest 3

Saints & Sinners is one of the most ambitious VR projects in the survival genre. The action takes place in a post-apocalyptic New Orleans, where players explore ruined neighborhoods, gather resources, craft weapons, and fight not only zombies but also other survivors. The combat system is implemented with a focus on physics: every encounter feels heavy and intense.

The game offers non-linearity, moral choices, character development, and a full story campaign, making it a notable exception among single-player VR titles.

Pros:

• Atmospheric world with RPG elements
• Engaging story and side quests
• Advanced weapon and melee physics
• Long duration and replayability

Cons:

• Dark theme not suitable for everyone
• Requires precise motion tracking

3.5 Resident Evil 4 VR

• Genre: first-person shooter / horror / action
• Headset support: Meta Quest 3S, Meta Quest 3, Meta Quest Pro, Meta Quest 2

Resident Evil 4 VR is a full adaptation of Capcom's cult action game reworked for the virtual reality format. Players assume the role of Leon Kennedy and set off to a Spanish village where they must rescue the president's daughter and face a horde of infected.

The game received a new first-person perspective, hand movement control, redesigned inventory, and weapon interaction. All this made the gameplay not only more dynamic but truly captivating. Despite the graphics being simplified for standalone VR, the atmosphere and game design of the original are fully preserved.

Pros:

• Cult story in a new format
• Complete support for VR mechanics (aiming, reloading, inventory)
• High-paced and intense action

Cons:

• Lacks the original third-person mode

3.6 The Climb 2

• Genre: sports simulator / climbing
• Headset support: Meta Quest 3S, Meta Quest 3, Meta Quest Pro, Meta Quest 2, Meta Quest

The Climb 2 is a first-person climbing simulator where the player ascends breathtaking cliffs, skyscrapers, and sheer crags. The controls are entirely based on hand movements: grabbing ledges, balancing, monitoring stamina, and resting on time. The game offers both natural and urban landscapes, including levels with parkour and tricks.

The project demonstrates how standalone VR can be used for physically active and visually captivating experiences.

Pros:

• Unique gameplay not found in other VR games
• Beautiful locations and a variety of tracks
• Sensation of height and realistic grab physics
• Dynamic challenges and time mode

Cons:

• No full-fledged story
• May cause discomfort for people with acrophobia

3.7 Batman: Arkham Shadow

• Genre: action-adventure
• Headset support: Meta Quest 3, Meta Quest 3S

The game's events unfold between Arkham Origins and Arkham Asylum. Players assume the role of a young Batman, investigating a threat from a new adversary — Rat King. The gameplay is broken into three branches: dynamic hand-to-hand combat, stealth elements, and an analytical "detective mode." Despite being implemented in VR format, it stylistically and in depth resembles the best parts of the Arkham series and offers 10–15 hours of a full storyline.

Pros:

• High-quality VR adaptation of classic Arkham gameplay
• Engaging plot, stealth mode, and battles in the spirit of the Arkham series
• Great optimization for Quest 3/3S

Cons:

• Available only on Meta Quest 3/3S, not compatible with Quest 2 and other platforms
• Rare bugs and drops observed with high numbers of enemies

3.8 Asgard’s Wrath 2

• Genre: role-playing game / action / open world
• Headset support: Meta Quest 3S, Meta Quest 3, Meta Quest Pro, Meta Quest 2

Asgard’s Wrath 2 is a large-scale fantasy RPG developed specifically for standalone VR headsets. The player acts as a deity that can possess different heroes and experience the plot from their perspective. The game offers dozens of hours of content: journeys through the open world, dungeons, side quests, boss battles, and survival elements. A deep combat system, thoughtful loot, puzzles, and a vast lore make the project a true VR blockbuster.

This is one of the largest and most technologically advanced games for standalone VR. The project became the flagship for Meta Quest 3 and demonstrated that a full-fledged RPG of 60–100 hours can be implemented on a headset without a PC. In terms of depth and elaboration, Asgard’s Wrath 2 is not inferior to classic console games.

Pros:

• Gameplay lasts from 60 to over 100 hours (including side quests and exploration)
• Large open world and rich campaign
• Advanced combat system and RPG mechanics
• A perfect example of an ambitious VR project on par with traditional games

Cons:

• Requires plenty of free space and time to complete
• Graphics are still limited by standalone hardware capabilities, especially on Quest 2
• Potential load on weak devices during long sessions

3.9 PowerWash Simulator VR

• Genre: simulator / relaxing game
• Headset support: Meta Quest 3S, Meta Quest 3, Meta Quest Pro, Meta Quest 2

The virtual version of the popular cleaning simulator from FuturLab, created specifically for standalone VR headsets. Players wield a washing device with a set of nozzles and perform various tasks: cleaning cars, buildings, park objects, and even parts of space missions, gradually increasing the quality of their work.

The game transfers all the base version content — including career mode, cooperative play for up to 4 players, and a series of themed DLCs. Control is intuitive: there is no need for complex navigation — just direct the stream of water and watch the dirt disappear under the pressure. The interface is conveniently placed on a virtual tablet attached to the arm.

PowerWash Simulator VR is one of the few VR games that creates sensations of meditative immersion and a soothing game process without action and tension. The game is adapted for Quest devices: smooth optimization, support for different movement styles, and cooperative play. Especially popular among players seeking relaxing VR sessions and unique gaming experiences.

Pros:

• Hypnotically relaxing gameplay suitable for unwinding
• Simultaneous or solo play with co-op up to 4 people
• Intuitive controls: water stream, nozzle selection, detergent change
• Excellent optimization for standalone Meta Quest 3 and 2 headsets

Cons:

• On Quest 3, it can seem too blurry, and there are complaints about graphics when moving
• Not suitable for everyone — gameplay may seem too calm and stretched out

3.10 Cities VR

• Genre: city-building simulator / management
• Headset support: Meta Quest 3S, Meta Quest 3, Meta Quest Pro, Meta Quest 2

Cities VR is an adaptation of the classic strategy Cities: Skylines created specifically for standalone headsets. Players manage the development of a virtual city: laying roads, building districts, launching public transport, and monitoring the economy. All this — from a first-person view or top-down, in a full VR environment.

This is one of the few city-building games implemented in VR without a PC connection. Although the game is not as deep as the original Skylines, it retains the basic mechanics and offers a unique perspective on city management — with the ability to literally "peek" into each district. Perfect for leisurely strategic sessions in a headset.

Pros:

• Unique VR experience in the strategy genre
• User-friendly controls and easy navigation
• Convenient VR interface and optimization for long sessions

Cons:

• Simplified graphics and limited maps
• Significantly cut compared to the PC version
• Interface not always responsive