World War Z VR Review (Quest)
Saber Interactive’s adaptation of World War Z for virtual reality immerses players in a zombie apocalypse like never before, bringing the chaos and intensity of a pandemic to the VR realm. This game promises thrilling encounters with the undead, a signature characteristic of its popular co-op shooter origin, but does the VR version hold up?
At the heart of the experience is a straightforward execution: choose your operator, customize your arsenal, and dive headfirst into a world teeming with chaos. Unlike its predecessor, this installment is purely a single-player experience with artificial intelligence (AI) partners backing you up amidst the relentless onslaught of zombies. While these AI comrades can hold their own in battles and provide much-needed support, there are moments where their erratic behavior can lead to unnecessary danger, disrupting the otherwise intense immersion. It’s evident that the game’s structure seems best suited for a multiplayer setup, suggesting players might miss out on a potentially richer, social adventure.
In moments where the game excels, it truly shines. Virtual reality infuses a physicality to the zombie hordes that flat-screen shooters struggle to match. The terrifying speed at which zombies cascade rooftop to rooftop or crash through barriers is reminiscent of the film’s most iconic moments, instilling a visceral sense of panic. Combat elements are robust, offering weapons with a satisfying heft and a customizable reloading experience. For those seeking intensity, the “realistic” reload mode pushes players to their limits, whereas the “arcade” option better suits large-scale conflicts, minimizing any tracking issues that could break immersion.
The linear level design, though not groundbreaking, maintains engaging pacing. Progress alternates between advancing through corridors, defending against enemy waves, and straightforward tasks such as locating items or activating switches. While these objectives may lack complexity, they serve to propel the exhilarating action forward without unnecessary interruptions.
Visually, World War Z VR presents a polished product within the capabilities of the Quest platform. Weapon mechanics are fluid, environments are reasonably detailed, and performance remains stable even in the midst of zombie-fueled mayhem. Though some zombie animations may disrupt immersion with occasional stiffness, the sheer volume of enemies encountered keeps the experience consistently thrilling. Audio design further enriches the immersion, from the crackle of gunfire to the chilling cries of zombies, ensuring an endlessly tense atmosphere.
Despite its merits, the campaign’s repetitive nature becomes apparent over its five-hour duration. While enemy variants offer some variety, many encounters ultimately involve mowing down similar foes. Combined with the absence of a cooperative mode, players may find it more enjoyable to experience the game in shorter sessions rather than prolonged playthroughs.
For those whose VR preferences lean towards fast-paced gunfights and nerve-racking chaos, World War Z VR delivers that excitement with aplomb. Its intensity, responsiveness, and chaotic energy hit all the right notes for solo players. However, those yearning for the camaraderie and shared tension found in the original’s co-op gameplay may feel a touch of longing for human companionship in their quest for survival.
