How to Play VR Games Without a VR Headset

I want to set proper expectations upfront – playing VR games without an actual virtual reality headset is possible, but the experience will be quite limited compared to full immersion VR. While you can get a small taste of these virtual worlds using methods like desktop mode, emulators, and even DIY smartphone viewers, the gameplay ultimately suffers without a dedicated device.

That said, let‘s dive deeper into each option with tips and recommendations for getting the best experience possible sans headset!

Playing VR Games in Desktop Mode

Many VR-compatible games allow you to bypass VR headset requirements and play directly on your monitor. This is done by launching the game and selecting a “Desktop” mode option. No special software needed.

Popular titles with this feature include:

This opens the door for traditional gamers to enjoy flagship VR games without expensive equipment. But how does desktop gameplay actually compare to full virtual reality immersion? Let’s compare.

Despite playing the same game, the overall experience drastically changes:

VR Headset

✅ Fully immersive environments

✅ Natural hand and body tracking

✅ Interactive motion-controlled gameplay

Desktop

❌ Flat single Screen

❌ Forced to use keyboard for movement

❌ Removes core experience

Simply put – VR games are designed from the ground up for dedicated headsets. Removing that turns them into lackluster ports. While playable, I cannot recommend most VR desktop modes for serious gaming. Casual enjoyment is fine.

That said, one big perk of desktop mode is accessibility. It opens beloved franchises to players unable to use VR for health reasons. An option worth considering despite limitations!

Emulating VR With Software

If you want to somewhat mimic instrumentation, VR emulator software exists to bring a heightened experience over desktop mode alone. Options like RiftCat VRidge and trinusVR aim to simulate VR graphics and head tracking using standard monitors and motion controls.

Here is how adoption has grown for RiftCat over time:

The steps are straightforward:

1. Download and install emulator software
2. Launch a VR game from your Steam library
3. Emulation overlays stereoscopic 3D graphics
4. Look around using your gaming mouse for view control

This uses visual trickery to simulate VR economically. How well does it work? I’d describe the experience as:

• Passable stereoscopy

• Clunky head tracking

• Playable frame rates (at least 60 fps)

• Affordable way to sample VR worlds

For under $20, exploring emulator solutions is fun for VR curiosity. That said, the immersion still proves lacking without 6 degrees of movement and natural interactions only a full room-scale VR system provides.

If going this route, I recommend at least an Nvidia 1060 or AMD 480 graphics card paired with one of these VR-ready PCs for smooth performance given the processing overhead.

Crafting a DIY VR Headset

Surprisingly, transforming an Android or iPhone into a functioning VR headset is quite simple! Often called Google Cardboard viewers after an early openly-sourced design, here’s what you’ll need:

The basic steps are:

1. Print and cut viewer enclosure pattern
2. Install lenses and phone holder
3. Attach straps with velcro strips
4. Insert phone and run mobile VR apps

It offers a neat way to sample basic VR cheaply with gear you likely have already. I’ve built a few just for fun! Watch YouTube tutorials if interested in following along.

That said – a literal box made of cardboard is no match for $400+ commercial grade products. The unit‘s optical limitations hinder immersion substantially after the novelty wears off. Blurry visuals coupled with phone overheating often spoil longer play sessions.

I thus highly recommend considering an actual VR system like the Oculus Quest 2 if you want lasting gaming value. Major titles like Beat Saber and Superhot VR shine best on specialized hardware with 6DOF tracking and intuitive controls. No phone jerry-rigging required!

Closing Thoughts

I hope this clearly outlined various methods for playing VR games without a headset along with their major pros, cons and recommendations. While lacking the full experience, opting to play in desktop mode, leverage emulation software, or even craft DIY smartphone viewers can satisfy initial VR curiosity economically. Just temper expectations accordingly and invest in quality gear if wanting more.

Let me know if you have any other questions! I’m always happy to discuss the latest in VR technology.