The new Sports Bar VR with cross-play is a major social experience update & now available on Steam. A single through 8-player cross-platform virtual sports bar overflowing with fun and silly props, featuring an awesome set of fun games and new game modes for pool, darts, shuffleboard & more. (Formally Pool Nation VR)
Players consistently praise the pool simulation as the game's standout feature, with many describing the physics and ball movement as incredibly realistic. The responsiveness allows for advanced techniques like spin and jump shots, to the point that some players find themselves instinctively trying to physically lean on the virtual table. Overall, the pool gameplay provides an authentic virtual experience that captures the feel of real-life billiards.
A major draw of the gameplay is the sense of social immersion in the multiplayer mode. Seeing other players' avatars (represented by floating headsets and controllers) and hearing their voice chat creates a strong feeling of presence and shared experience. Players report becoming deeply engaged in organic social interactions, such as trash talking, making gestures, and playing tricks on each other, in addition to the pool matches themselves. This helps bring the virtual bar environment to life in a compelling way.
In addition to the core pool simulation, the game includes a variety of well-implemented mini-games, such as darts, air hockey, shuffleboard, chess, and more. While secondary to the pool, these diversions provide fun alternative activities for players to enjoy and further ways to interact with each other.
A key element that enhances the immersion is the high degree of physicality and interactivity within the virtual environment. Players can grab, stack, and throw various objects around the bar, leading to amusing antics and physics-based hijinks. This allows for creative, unscripted engagement with the space and other players beyond just playing the games.
While not directly affecting the gameplay, the ability to customize one's avatar, pool cue, and other aspects of the environment is appreciated by players as a way to personalize their virtual experience and express themselves. The steady stream of new unlockable items also provides an ongoing sense of progression and reward.