Stealing the idol from an ancient temple and being chased by killer monkeys is one thing, but when those monkeys chase you in virtual reality, the experience changes completely. A couple of months ago we briefly mentioned Temple Run VR, one of the first games compatible with the Samsung Gear VR headset. The game now has a stable version, and those with the required hardware can download it for free.
Virtual reality needs more software. This topic keeps coming up for the simple reason that advances haven't been impactful enough, except for isolated examples like Elite: Dangerous, which delivers a spectacular experience on the Oculus Rift. The point is that for many players, the combination of the Rift with Elite: Dangerous is the minimum they expect from virtual reality. If we add that all hardware options are still in the development phase, the progress of content creators becomes even slower. Fortunately, some projects have managed to escape this. The most recent is Temple Run VR, one of the first to offer support for the Samsung Gear VR headset.
The game's objective is exactly the same as in the conventional versions: steal the idol and try to run as far as possible while being chased by psychopathic monkeys that not only want the idol back, but also a piece of meat or two. The addictive component of Temple Run VR is very important, and its virtual reality version only enhances that effect. If the player looks back or to the sides, they will see that the monkeys have no problem crossing the rough terrain, but it's not very convenient to take your eyes off the path. Unexpected obstacles or a bad turn can end the game immediately.
Temple Run VR is free, and all the user needs to do is download a copy on their Samsung Galaxy Note 4, connect it to the Gear VR, and start running. It's worth remembering that the official Gear VR price is $199, while a Galaxy Note 4 can reach $700 without a contract. Personally, I hope Temple Run VR serves as an “ambassador” to connect players with virtual reality, and that more titles follow soon.
