Steam Next Fest is back this June, and it’s more than just a chance to fill your wishlist. The event is also showcasing a solid lineup of VR demos, giving PC players a chance to see what’s brewing in the world of immersive gaming.
This isn’t just a token VR presence, either. From promising indie projects to updates on games already generating buzz, the festival’s VR section is shaping up to be a real highlight.
A Closer Look at the VR Demos
One of the best things about Next Fest is that it’s not about polished final releases. It’s about pulling back the curtain on games still in the works. For VR, that often means seeing developers experimenting with mechanics and comfort settings that might not make the final cut. It’s also a chance for players to offer feedback while these games are still malleable. That back-and-forth is especially important in VR, where everything from motion to perspective can make or break an experience.
Variety and New Directions
The VR demos this time around cover a lot of ground. Some are leaning hard into action and movement, using motion controls to really pull you in. Others are dialing things back, focusing on atmospheric environments or puzzle-driven play that’s more about slowing down than speeding up.
This variety is what makes Next Fest such a good barometer for where VR is heading. It’s not all about flash some of the most interesting demos are the ones that feel like small, personal projects finding their own niche.
How It All Fits Into PC VR Right Now
The VR section of Next Fest also says something about how PC VR itself is evolving. With standalone headsets taking up more of the market, PC-tethered VR has to lean into what it does best: higher fidelity visuals and more complex interactions.
That’s exactly what some of these demos are pushing. Whether it’s environments that pop in a way you can’t get on standalone headsets or intricate systems that need a full PC’s horsepower, the festival is a snapshot of how PC VR is carving out its own space.
Gaming Strategist & Trend Analyst
With a background in game economics and digital culture, METAREPORT connects the dots. He dissects trends, deciphers strategies, and delivers data-backed insights for gamers, creators, and investors alike.
