Virtual reality gaming has been a tough field to navigate since its public debut in 2016, mostly because it was a brand-new technology that had immense hype leading up to the launch of three major platforms. Over time, we got to see VR experiences evolve from its early stages in terms of scale and ingenuity as developers built upon previous work and implemented new lessons learned. In 2018, there were a few flashes of brilliance that proved VR gaming doesn`t need to chase realistic visuals or total physical immersion for a transformative experience, but rather fine executions of creative ideas using the tech that`s already in place.Despite a refined version of the HTC Vive and an item-level standalone Oculus headset in the Oculus Go, PlayStation VR stole the show late in 2018. It might be bit surprising to think that as time marches on, the more primitive technology was home to the year`s best VR games; PSVR still runs on PlayStation 4 hardware (Pro or otherwise), tracks players through the PlayStation Camera, and uses the unsophisticated Move controllers. But it`s a testament to Sony`s ability to secure exclusivity, establish a wider platform, and have developers deliver unique, compelling experiences. And if it wasn`t for a handful of great games, 2018 would`ve been wholly underwhelming for VR.Astro Bot: Rescue Mission was a definite highlight of VR gaming in 2018, exclusive to PSVR.PlayStation VR Comes Out On Top With GamesJapan Studio created something truly special for PSVR with Astro Bot: Rescue Mission. Its initial pitch may not sound like much: a seated 3D platformer where you control an `AR Bot` that was once a mascot for PSVR`s Playroom mini-game suite. However, it turned out to be much more than that with one clever idea after another executed to near-perfection. You control the bot itself as you handle the DualShock motion controls to use gadgets and interact with the environment. These two elements effortlessly work in tandem to solve puzzles, navig ...
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