VRChat is a user-created online virtual reality world. It’s the largest platform for free expression and social VR where people of all ages, countries, backgrounds can come together to create chaotic and amazing experiences. The game is still in the early beta stages (and free access) but on the verge of a big update, with the full version to be available soon.
VR headsets are becoming cheaper, and with good reason, it’s fairly easy to see the benefits of VR in many areas such as gaming, jobs, and education. But is it really necessary for this type of game? Hopefully, this guide will give you a better insight into whether or not you need a VR headset to play the game. Then you can make an informed decision on whether to spend the money or not. Let’s find out the answer to do you require a VR headset to play VRChat?
Do you need VR headset to play VRchat?
VRChat can be played with or without a VR headset. It’s possible to play the game on your desktop, laptop, or mobile devices such as a mobile phone or tablet. You can even voice chat with other users without a headset which is standard with most online community games. When you join the game, you can put on your avatar’s head which is fairly large, and make it look like you are in the game.
This does mean you don’t have the full experience of being in a virtual world or feeling as if you are part of it. I only had the game running on my desktop (no headset on) and controlled the game with the mouse. It’s not exactly the full experience, but I could still interact with other players and have a full conversation.
In terms of playing the game, it’s very easy to play even without a VR headset. There is also a desktop mode available, making the game look more like a traditional video game on your computer monitor. You may have a difficult time controlling your avatar, but it’s fairly easy to do so.
But if you have a VR headset, then you can definitely get a better experience. You will assume much more fascinated in the game when using an HMD (Head Mounted Display). For example, if you are using an Oculus Rift to play the game, it’s like playing any other usual game on the Rift. The only real difference is that in this case, you are in a virtual world, and the gameplay is different.
It’s also possible to stand up in a room and walk around, which makes for a better experience (and more fun). If you want to walk around and check out your surroundings in VR, you’ll need a VR headset.
How to use VRChat without VR Headset?
Here’s a quick guide on how to use VRChat without using a VR headset. You can voice chat with other players and interact with them without a VR headset. To start the game, you need to download it first. You can get the game here: https://vrchat.com/home/download.
Next, launch the game, and you will find yourself in an empty world at the moment. The first thing you need to do now is press F11 on your keyboard to go into full-screen mode. You can also press F11 again to get back to window mode (if you’re using your desktop).
You will also see some settings on the side of the screen, which you can use to change certain settings. The Play Mode dropdown menu allows you to switch between VR mode and Desktop Mode. Desktop Mode can also be used with a VR headset but is not as immersive as VR Mode.
If you have a VR Headset, then you can choose VR Mode. If you don’t have a VR headset, you’ll need to choose Desktop Mode instead of using your desktop or mobile device.
The Social Mode dropdown menu allows you to choose the display setting which you want. There are certain settings for your avatar’s head, hand gestures, and voice chat. This is the recommended setting you should choose to make your avatar talk without using a headset.
The last dropdown menu allows you to choose what type of input method you are using. There are two options available: Mouse/Keyboard and X-Mouse/Gamepad. It’s recommended to choose X-Mouse (if you are playing on your desktop).
Once you have changed the settings, it’s time to move around. Use your MOUSE to look around and move from side to side. You can also hold SPACE on your keyboard to start walking in a room. If you are using a mobile device, it’s recommended to use the touchpad (on the side of your device) to move around.
For the best experience, it’s recommended to use a VR Headset and not your desktop or mobile device. With the game being in early access, it’s worth getting a VR headset if possible. It’s also not too expensive to purchase either so that you can get your hands on one fairly easily. But it’s also fully playable without VR headsets, so if you can’t afford one at the moment, you can still play the game.
People also ask
1. What do I need for VRChat?
Answer: VRChat is the kind of game that you don’t need much hardware for. You need a VR headset to play VRChat. You can also play the game with a monitor or TV; however, you won’t get the same immersive experience as if you were using a VR headset. As long as your computer can run VRChat, you should be fine. Here are the minimum requirements to play VRChat:
- OS: Windows 10 / macOS Sierra 10.12
- Processor: Intel i5-4590 equivalent
- Memory: 4 GB RAM
- Graphics: GTX 970 / AMD 290 equivalent or better
2. Can you play VRChat with only the headset?
Answer: Yes, you can! You don’t need a VR headset to play VRChat. If your PC is able to run VRChat, then you can play it. You can play with your monitor or TV, but you won’t get the full experience compared to playing with a VR headset.
3. Is VRChat free?
Answer: Yes, it is free. VRChat is free to download. If you want to create your VRChat room, then that is also free. You can do anything in VRChat as long as you follow the rules of the game.
Conclusion
VRChat is a cool social VR game that was inspired by games like Second Life and Habbo Hotel. If you’re an enthusiast of those games, then you’ll love VRChat. It has many potentials, and with it being available for free right now, you should check it out.
The VRChat game is still in early access, but it has a lot to offer. You can create your own virtual reality room, you could meet new friends to play with, and you can have a ton of fun playing different types of games. You can play the game with or without a VR headset, and it’s completely your choice.