Kayak VR: Mirage
• 5-star rating
• PCVR
• Fitness, Meditation
• Moderate Comfort, Roomscale
Kayak VR: Mirage showcases the best of what modern virtual reality can achieve - from it's fantastic scenery and water effects to the engaging landscapes that you'll want to explore for hours.
The experience begins in an unexpected place - a swimming pool - as you learn the ways of paddling a kayak in VR. Most people will find paddling to be intuitive, but it's worth spending a few minutes with the tutorial to recognize how much control you have over the kayak, which includes leaning your body to tilt and steer. Once you're ready to move on to the full experience you can choose from a variety of destinations, times of day and weather types.
Catering for many different types of VR users, Kayak VR gives you three different modes to choose from and offers lots of replayability. Selecting a tour sends you off on a tranquil and scenic lazy-river where paddles aren't provided and you can just relax and enjoy the journey.
Paddle with the palms on a Costa Rica beach
For a slightly more adventurous experience, investigate each location in your own time on a self-directed expedition. The third mode pits you in an energetic race against other real-but-virtual kayakers who have previously completed the course - dodging between canyon walls or around icebergs as you tackle slalom courses. At the end if feels like you've just completed a short workout. Whichever mode you choose there are surprises along the way, including natural bridges, ice caves and many different wildlife encounters.
We've rated this experience for moderate comfort because those new to VR might notice some uneasiness, but much of this is self-inflicted. Choose tranquil waters and you will find things smooth sailing, especially as the boat's movements intuitively respond to your own actions. Pick a stormy Norwegian coastline and you'll be rolling along with the choppy waves. We were extremely impressed with how realistic the paddling and boat movement felt to us. Folk who really want to get carried away with this game can also tape their controllers to a stick or a real paddle to increase the realism.
Stormy Norwegian seas are only for those with VR sea-legs.
✅ Fantastic visuals and effects.
✅ Lots to explore, plenty of surprises.
✅ For tranquility seekers and adrenaline junkies alike.
❌ Some may experience initial discomfort.
• YouTube: Trailer
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