Meta has announced plans to shut down Horizon Worlds on its Quest headsets, ending its flagship social VR experience on the platform. For users who relied on it for virtual hangouts, events or exploration, that leaves a noticeable gap.
But Horizon Worlds wasn’t the only option. From social VR spaces to immersive games and community-driven platforms, there are several alternatives that offer similar — and in some cases better — experiences.
Here are 10 VR apps worth trying next:
Emmanuel Umahi
/1. VRChat
VRChat is more than a game, it’s a full virtual universe shaped entirely by its community. Here, you can wander through surreal worlds, attend user-created events, or dive into conversations that range from deep and meaningful to pure, unpredictable chaos. For players who loved Horizon Worlds for its social experimentation and creative freedom, VRChat is the ultimate playground.
The sheer variety of environments and the freedom to express yourself through custom avatars and user-generated content mean no two visits are ever the same. It’s unpolished, often chaotic, and wildly entertaining, but that unpredictability is exactly what makes VRChat a living, breathing VR experience that’s hard to leave.
/2. Rec Room
Rec Room is the perfect bridge for those who want the social VR experience without being overwhelmed. With its bright, colorful worlds and accessible interface, it’s easy to pick up and play.
What sets Rec Room apart are the countless mini-games and activities—everything from paintball matches to escape rooms—that encourage collaboration and fun. Unlike Horizon Worlds, which could feel overly serious or abstract at times, Rec Room brings a sense of playfulness and approachability, making social interaction natural and effortless. Whether you’re new to VR or a veteran looking for a casual hangout, Rec Room offers a welcoming space where you can meet friends, join clubs, and even participate in special events.
/3. Bigscreen
Bigscreen is the ultimate hangout app for VR users who want connection without complication. It turns your VR headset into a shared cinema or workspace, allowing you to watch movies, stream content, or simply sit and chat with others in a virtual environment.
The beauty of Bigscreen lies in its simplicity: you don’t need to learn complex mechanics or master in-game objectives. Instead, you can focus on the people around you, share experiences, and enjoy the presence of others in a comfortable, low-pressure setting. It’s the perfect option for those who want social interaction that feels authentic but doesn’t demand constant engagement.
/4. PokerStars VR
PokerStars VR might sound like a card game at first glance, but the real draw is social. Players quickly discover that the chips and cards are secondary to the conversations and banter that unfold across the virtual table. It’s a surprisingly human VR experience, blending casual gameplay with social immersion.
Whether you’re cracking jokes with strangers or engaging in light-hearted competition, PokerStars VR creates an environment where conversation flows naturally and connections form easily. For Horizon Worlds fans who valued social spaces and human interaction, this app proves that VR can be as much about people as it is about gameplay.
/5. Bait!
For those moments when you want a VR space that’s calm and social without being chaotic, Bait! offers the perfect escape. This virtual fishing game allows players to relax in serene environments, chat with friends or strangers, and enjoy the quiet rhythms of fishing together.
Unlike fast-paced social VR spaces, Bait! emphasizes presence, conversation, and low-stress interaction. It’s ideal for players who want to feel connected without the constant noise or intensity of action-heavy games. The combination of beautiful scenery, soothing gameplay, and subtle social interaction makes Bait! a hidden gem for downtime in VR.
/6. Gorilla Tag
Gorilla Tag is pure, unfiltered energy in VR form. Players swing, climb, and run using their arms to navigate chaotic, movement-driven maps. There are no menus, no tutorials, and no complex objectives—just instinctive gameplay that’s as funny as it is addictive. Gorilla Tag’s simplicity is its genius: the social interactions happen naturally as players chase and tag each other, laugh at missteps, and bond over shared chaos.
It’s also a surprisingly effective workout, making it perfect for those who want both fun and physical activity in VR. For Horizon Worlds fans who love spontaneous social play, Gorilla Tag delivers energy and unpredictability in every session.
/7. Walkabout Mini Golf
Walkabout Mini Golf combines friendly competition with a relaxed, social atmosphere. The VR courses are beautiful and immersive, but the real fun comes from interacting with friends or strangers as you play. Laughing at missed shots, celebrating successes, and sharing casual conversation makes this more than a game, it’s a social experience. Unlike more intense VR shooters or action games, Walkabout Mini Golf emphasizes organic interactions, making it ideal for players who want casual gameplay where conversation flows naturally. It’s a reminder that sometimes the simplest games create the richest social connections in VR.
/8. Real VR Fishing
Real VR Fishing is the ultimate choice for players seeking quiet, mindful VR experiences. The game’s environments are beautifully rendered, encouraging players to slow down, breathe, and enjoy the scenery. While catching fish is part of the gameplay, the real draw is the conversations and camaraderie that happen between casts.
It’s a VR space designed for relaxation and social presence without pressure or competition. For Horizon Worlds fans who valued social interaction but also craved moments of calm, Real VR Fishing provides a thoughtful, immersive experience that’s as peaceful as it is engaging.
/9. Eleven Table Tennis
Eleven Table Tennis proves that VR doesn’t need complexity to create strong social interaction. Facing another player across a virtual table feels surprisingly real, and the combination of physics, timing, and eye contact makes matches feel authentic.
The game strikes a perfect balance between casual fun and competitive engagement, creating opportunities for bonding through friendly rivalry. For Horizon Worlds enthusiasts who enjoy collaborative and interactive spaces, Eleven Table Tennis offers a focused, satisfying social experience that emphasizes presence, competition, and connection.
/10. VR Giants
VR Giants is a cooperative experience that forces players to communicate and work together to succeed. In this unique game, one player is enormous while another is small, requiring constant collaboration to navigate challenges and complete objectives.
The mechanics create immediate teamwork and social interaction, unlike most VR games where players can go solo or ignore each other. For Horizon Worlds fans who love cooperative experiences, VR Giants provides a structured, immersive way to bond with others while having fun in a fantastical VR environment.
Emmanuel Umahi
