Since I fall into the latter category, Im still on board.
Oh, IknowthatSony isnt really supporting the PlayStation VR 2.
Im aware of that fact!
But none of that matters because I almost burned down my apartment today playing Riven in VR.
And it was one of the best gaming experiences Ive had all year.
Before we get into it, let me say this: yes, it was my fault.
Yes, that is a real game.
No, you probably dont want to look it up.
And no, I dont own it.
Were gonna need to do better than just ten percent off the priceduring a Steam sale.
But once I do buy it - I promise you that they will find me dead playing it.
Riven VR Is So Immersive It’s Dangerous
The point being, I am alone.
Riven is a ground-up remake of the 1997 classic puzzle adventure and sequel to Myst, with stunning visuals and expanded story. With the titular world on the edge of collapse, you help Atrus attempt a daring rescue of his wife from his father, the despotic Gehn.
Breakfast would be done soon!
While panoramic, FMV-filled puzzle games were all the rage back in the 90s, Riven feels rarer now.
But in virtual reality - dear lord - Rivenshines.
Its a tactile experience designed for moving around and using your hands.
The difference between playing in 2D and VR is far greater than even in the underappreciated Star Wars Squadrons.
it’s possible for you to take your time in Riven.
Riven is a ground-up remake of the 1997 classic puzzle adventure and sequel to Myst, with stunning visuals and expanded story. With the titular world on the edge of collapse, you help Atrus attempt a daring rescue of his wife from his father, the despotic Gehn.
Youresupposedto take your time.
But most of the time theres no sense of urgency.
You go at your own pace while exploring a beautiful world.
Hell, Id say its more calming thansome of the virtual reality meditation apps I own.
Not to mention thatplayingthe game is easier in VR.
Riven Is So Much Better In VR
Also, riding in those transport machines isamazing.
Some people go to Dave & Busters and pay $5 a pop for this.
I can just annoy the game by going back and forth between islands.
One point early on, a section made me realize how gorgeous the opening scenes ofBioShockwouldve been in VR.
It caught me up.
It swallowed me whole.
Until I heard my fire alarm go off and I remembered Im, again, the stupidest human alive.
Not a little bit.
Like, enough that it was probably a danger to my health.
Im not even sure how I missed it.
Maybe that blew a lot of the smoke away from me.
I tossed the toast in the sink and poured water on it.
I sprayed Febreeze everywhere, adding to the future survival of this planet.
I lit a few candles and turned on an air purifier I havent touched since 2020.
Then a neighbor banged on my door and asked if I needed help.
I said I burnt some food I was making.
They looked at me like I was a giant idiot, because I was.
I filled my home with smoke trying to warm up the worlds simplest breakfast.
Knowing my apartments ancient ventilation system, its probably going to smell this way for a couple days.
But honestly, its rare I getthatlost in a game.
Even in virtual reality.
Usually theres a tiny distraction.
A lens is smudged.
A glitch takes me out of it.
The virtual boundaries pop up even when Im in the very middle of the space.
But that didnt happen here.
