Welcome to UploadVR’s Best of VR Awards for 2025! As this year wraps up, we’re excited to recognize the standout releases in the VR and XR world. We’ve got winners in both software and hardware categories, each with a mix of honorable mentions. All titles are fully released, except for those in early access.
We divided the awards into rounds. The first round focused on favorites for Quest, PC VR, PlayStation VR2, and Apple Vision Pro, with highlights like Ghost Town and Roboquest VR. In round two, we looked at mixed reality and hand-tracking success stories like Jigsaw Night and Figmin XR. Now, let’s dive into our final picks!
Best Virtual Place 2025
Walkabout Mini Golf takes the top spot for Best Virtual Place in 2025. This year, it transformed from just a mini-golf game into a vibrant social hub where players gather and interact. Mighty Coconut’s creative team introduced courses inspired by themes like Elvis and Alice in Wonderland, enriching the experience with hidden activities like slingshots and chess.
Players have lots to explore, making it a perfect entry point for newcomers to VR. As of December, the design team is already planning courses for 2027, setting a high bar for social VR experiences. Walkabout Mini Golf is not just a game; it’s a community.
Best VR Developer
This year, the award for Best VR Developer goes to VitruviusVR for its standout title, Arken Age. This game has earned praise for cleverly designed VR gameplay that fits perfectly on various platforms. Its rich visuals and engaging combat showcase what VR can truly achieve.
Best New Hardware
Meta marks a milestone with the Neural Band included in the Ray-Ban Display, winning our Best Hardware award. This sleek, flexible wristband uses surface electromyography (sEMG) technology, making it easy to control a smart glasses HUD without fuss. With its comfortable design and all-day battery life, it elevates everyday VR interactions.
Best New Multiplayer Game
For multiplayer enthusiasts, the winner is Demeo x Dungeons & Dragons: Battlemarked. This game brings together classic tabletop role-playing in a way that welcomes both VR veterans and newcomers. It’s a great option for those who love strategy and social play.
VR Game of the Year 2025
The big award for VR Game of the Year goes to Arken Age. With its stunning graphics and immersive gameplay, it has set a new standard for VR experiences. Despite featuring strong competitors like Ghost Town and Roboquest VR, Arken Age stands out as a complete package that dazzles across all platforms.
Most Anticipated Game of 2026
Looking ahead, our Most Anticipated Game of 2026 is Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Empire City. This action-adventure title promises an exciting blend of single-player and co-op gameplay. Early insights suggest that Cortopia Studios is creating something special that pays homage to this iconic series.
As we reflect on this year, it’s clear that the VR landscape is evolving. Developers are pushing boundaries, and gamers are reaping the rewards.
