24 Best VR Engines for Immersive Experiences In 2024
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12 Best VR Engines Shortlist
After meticulous evaluation, I've compiled a shortlist of the very top VR engines. Each is highlighted for its main use case in immersive reality creation.
- VirBELA - Best for collaborative virtual spaces
- UPBGE - Best for Blender game engine enthusiasts
- CryEngine - Best for visually stunning gaming experiences
- VIVE Wave - Best for cross-platform virtual reality developments
- Conical Interactive Studios - Best for bespoke VR and AR solutions
- Amazon Lumberyard - Best for AWS-integrated game development
- Unreal Engine - Best for high-fidelity, interactive experiences
- ARCore - Best for Android augmented reality experiences
- ARKit - Best for iOS augmented reality developments
- Windows Mixed Reality - Best for hybrid reality experiences on Windows
- SteamVR - Best for integration with Steam's gaming ecosystem
- Unity Engine - Best for multiplatform game developments
As a developer myself, I've spent countless hours in different development environments, working with various game engines and pushing them to their limits. It's a world where the ideal balance lies in an engine's compatibility with various platforms, the availability of useful plugins, the accessibility of source code, and its overall workflow efficiency. That's where VR game engines come in, bringing in a specialized focus to create immersive, virtual reality games.
Working across various operating systems like Linux and macOS, or for different devices ranging from consoles to mobile devices, these engines provide the tools and versatility that game developers seek. Whether you're well-versed in Javascript or other scripting languages, the best VR game engines offer the flexibility to leverage your skills.
What Is a VR Engine?
A VR (Virtual Reality) engine is a software framework designed to create and manage virtual environments. It's the powerhouse behind the immersive digital worlds we experience in VR applications, offering the necessary tools to design, simulate, and interact with these unique environments.
Users range from game developers crafting complex, immersive experiences, and educators creating interactive learning modules, to businesses building virtual spaces for collaboration or product demonstrations. These engines provide the technological means to manipulate our perception of reality, transporting us from the realm of the physical to the realm of the possible.
The ability to build a compelling virtual reality game from the ground up is not just about having a powerful tool, it's about having an engine that's aligned with your creative vision and technical know-how. This is exactly what VR game development engines offer - a comprehensive platform where programmers can let their creativity fly, aided by a proficient, feature-rich tool.
Overviews of the 12 Best VR Engines
1. VirBELA - Best for collaborative virtual spaces
VirBELA is an expansive VR platform designed to bring people together in a shared virtual space. With its focus on fostering collaboration and connectivity, it offers a unique virtual environment where individuals and organizations can interact as if they were in the same physical location.
Why I Picked VirBELA:
I chose VirBELA because of its strong emphasis on creating collaborative spaces. Its virtual environments mimic real-world interactions, making it ideal for remote teams, educators, and event planners. I judged its capacity to enhance team collaboration and determined that it's best for those looking to create a more engaging, interactive virtual workspace.
Standout Features & Integrations:
VirBELA provides fully customizable 3D campuses and expo halls, making it a great choice for hosting online events or creating a virtual workspace. It also offers features like shared screens, integrated video chat, and interactive whiteboards. In terms of integration, VirBELA works well with a host of third-party apps that facilitate virtual collaboration, such as Slack, Trello, and Google Drive.
Pricing:
VirBELA pricing begins at $19.99/user/month. There is no minimum number of seats you need to buy, making it a cost-effective choice for teams of all sizes.
Pros:
- Provides a highly interactive virtual environment
- A strong focus on team collaboration
- Compatibility with various third-party apps
Cons:
- The learning curve may be steep for non-tech-savvy users
- Graphics quality could be improved for more realism
- Occasional performance issues reported by some users
2. UPBGE - Best for Blender game engine enthusiasts
UPBGE, short for Uchronia Project Blender Game Engine, is an open-source offshoot of the Blender Game Engine. It's tailored to allow Blender users to dive deeper into the realm of game creation, offering an assortment of tools and functions that can enhance and expedite the game development process.
Why I Picked UPBGE:
UPBGE made the cut for its robust integration with Blender, one of the most popular 3D creation suites available. For those already familiar with Blender's interface and tools, UPBGE provides a comfortable platform for diving into game creation.
By aligning with Blender's capabilities, UPBGE presents itself as the best option for Blender game engine enthusiasts.
Standout Features & Integrations:
UPBGE stands out with its features like real-time physics simulation, Python scripting, and high-quality rendering options. It also provides logic bricks, which are a simple programming system for game logic.
While UPBGE doesn't inherently provide integration with external services, the use of Python scripting allows developers to incorporate functionality from a variety of third-party APIs and libraries as needed.
Pricing:
UPBGE is entirely free to use, being an open-source project. This makes it a great option for those on a budget or just starting out in game development.
Pros:
- Deep integration with Blender
- A wealth of game development tools and functions
- Open-source and free to use
Cons:
- Requires knowledge of Blender to fully utilize
- Lacks inherent integration with external services
- Steeper learning curve for beginners
3. CryEngine - Best for visually stunning gaming experiences
CryEngine is a powerful game development engine known for its superior graphical capabilities and efficient rendering technology. This engine provides developers with the tools needed to create visually striking, immersive games that push the boundaries of player expectations.
Why I Picked CryEngine:
I chose CryEngine for this list due to its renowned visual prowess and highly improved engine. The level of detail and graphical fidelity it enables in game development is unrivaled. Therefore, CryEngine stands out as the best choice for creators seeking to develop visually stunning gaming experiences.
Standout Features & Integrations:
CryEngine boasts a range of cutting-edge features, including physically-based rendering, real-time dynamic water caustics, and a vast library of pre-built assets and characters. It also includes CryPhysics, an advanced physics system that supports rigid body and soft body simulation.
As for integrations, CryEngine supports FBX and COLLADA model formats and is compatible with major graphics APIs such as DirectX 11 and Vulkan.
Pricing:
CryEngine operates on a "Pay What You Want" model, where the engine itself is free to use. If users wish to contribute, they can decide the amount they pay, and where their contribution goes, splitting it between CryEngine and a charity of their choice.
Pros:
- Exceptional graphical capabilities
- Advanced physics system
- Extensive library of assets and characters
Cons:
- High system requirements for full feature utilization
- Steeper learning curve compared to some competitors
- Limited mobile support
4. VIVE Wave - Best for cross-platform virtual reality developments
VIVE Wave is a dynamic VR engine designed for the creation and integration of high-quality VR content across a broad range of hardware platforms. Its versatility and compatibility make it ideal for developers looking to deliver immersive VR experiences irrespective of the device their audience uses.
Why I Picked VIVE Wave:
When selecting a VR engine for this list, VIVE Wave's promise of a universal platform for virtual reality content was a compelling factor. Its ability to bridge the gap between different VR hardware platforms sets it apart.
This engine is the "Best for..." developers who aim to reach a wider audience by enabling their VR content to be accessible across multiple VR platforms.
Standout Features & Integrations:
VIVE Wave boasts several standout features including its open platform design, integrated VIVEPORT content platform, and broad hardware compatibility. It also provides comprehensive development tools for creating VR applications and supports key industry standards like OpenXR.
For integrations, VIVE Wave's unified SDK allows developers to integrate their content with a wide array of VR devices without needing separate software for each device.
Pricing:
VIVE Wave operates on a free-to-use model for developers. It aims to foster a rich VR ecosystem by reducing barriers to entry, thus there are no licensing or subscription fees.
Pros:
- Broad hardware compatibility
- OpenXR support
- Integrated content platform
Cons:
- More limited in specific hardware features compared to manufacturer-specific engines
- Smaller user community than some competitors
- Fewer learning resources available compared to more established engines
5. Conical Interactive Studios - Best for bespoke VR and AR solutions
Conical Interactive Studios operates at the intersection of creativity and technology, delivering high-quality bespoke VR and AR solutions. By focusing on a unique, tailored approach to each project, they provide immersive experiences that truly align with your vision and specific requirements.
Why I Picked Conical Interactive Studios:
I chose Conical Interactive Studios for this list due to their commitment to delivering tailor-made VR and AR experiences. They pride themselves on creating solutions that aren't one-size-fits-all, but rather, are specially designed to meet each client's specific needs. I believe this focus on customization makes them the "Best for..." those looking for bespoke VR and AR solutions.
Standout Features & Integrations:
One standout feature of Conical Interactive Studios is their interdisciplinary team, which combines expertise from fields such as design, engineering, and filmmaking to create truly unique VR and AR solutions. Another notable feature is their client-focused approach, which ensures each project is a collaborative effort with the client.
As they create custom solutions, the integrations they provide depend on the specific requirements of the project at hand.
Pricing:
Given the bespoke nature of their work, Conical Interactive Studios does not provide standardized pricing, as each project is quoted based on its unique requirements. For specific pricing information, potential clients need to request a consultation.
Pros:
- Custom-built solutions to meet specific needs
- Interdisciplinary team
- Strong client involvement in the project
Cons:
- No standardized pricing makes budgeting more complex
- Not suitable for those seeking off-the-shelf solutions
- Project timelines can be longer due to the bespoke nature of their work
6. Amazon Lumberyard - Best for AWS-integrated game development
Amazon Lumberyard is a free AAA game engine deeply integrated with AWS (Amazon Web Services) and Twitch. The tool provides a growing set of development capabilities for creating high-quality, engaging, and multiplayer games, making it best suited for AWS-integrated game development.
Why I Picked Amazon Lumberyard:
In my selection process, I determined that Amazon Lumberyard stands out due to its robust AWS integration. This makes it possible to build and host game servers, distribute games, and more, all within the AWS ecosystem.
Given these advantages, it's my opinion that Amazon Lumberyard is "Best for..." AWS-integrated game development.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Amazon Lumberyard provides native AWS integration, enabling game developers to connect their games to the vast computing and storage of AWS. Additionally, the tool also includes integration with Twitch, providing developers the means to build games that engage with the massive Twitch community.
Other standout features include a visual scripting tool, a particle editor, and a UI editor.
Pricing:
While Amazon Lumberyard itself is free, the cost for AWS services used within Lumberyard varies based on the specific services used. For more detailed pricing information, refer to the individual AWS service pricing pages.
Pros:
- Deep integration with AWS and Twitch
- No upfront costs for the engine
- Wide variety of development tools and features
Cons:
- AWS usage costs can add up depending on the scope of the project
- Can have a steep learning curve for beginners
- Limited platform support compared to some other engines
7. Unreal Engine - Best for high-fidelity, interactive experiences
Unreal Engine is a robust and professional suite of tools used by game developers and studios to create high-fidelity, interactive experiences. The engine's powerful rendering capabilities make it optimal for creating stunning visual experiences that can truly immerse the player in the game world.
Why I Picked Unreal Engine:
In my process of selecting game development engines, I judged Unreal Engine to be especially significant. It's a versatile tool that offers a high degree of freedom for developers to create unique, high-quality graphics. I chose Unreal Engine as the "Best for..." high-fidelity, interactive experience because of its top-tier visual quality and strong performance.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Unreal Engine offers a feature-rich environment including a visual scripting system, advanced AI toolkit, and comprehensive multiplayer framework. The engine also boasts a cinematic editing tool that allows for the creation of intricate cutscenes and scripted events.
In terms of integrations, it provides support for popular software like Blender, Maya, and a wide array of middleware solutions such as Wwise and FMOD for audio, and PhysX for physics simulation.
Pricing:
Unreal Engine is free to use until your game's gross revenue exceeds $1 million, at which point you pay a 5% royalty on the game's gross revenue.
Pros:
- Top-tier graphics capabilities
- Wide range of features for game development
- Free to use until your game makes significant revenue
Cons:
- The 5% royalty fee can add up for successful games
- Can be overwhelming for beginners due to its complexity
- Requires a high-performance computer to run smoothly
8. ARCore - Best for Android augmented reality experiences
ARCore is Google's platform for building augmented reality experiences on Android devices. It uses different APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) to understand the phone's environment and integrate virtual content into the world around you, making it perfect for Android AR experiences.
Why I Picked ARCore:
I selected ARCore as part of this list due to its unique capabilities in enabling developers to blend the digital and the physical worlds. It stands out for its excellent integration with Android devices and robust performance.
Considering its unique features and strengths, I concluded that ARCore is best for creating Android augmented reality experiences.
Standout Features & Integrations:
ARCore includes features like motion tracking, environmental understanding, and light estimation to create immersive AR experiences. It allows developers to anchor virtual objects in the real world, understand the size and location of flat surfaces, and reflect the real world's lighting in virtual objects.
ARCore integrates with many tools developers already use like Unity, Unreal Engine, and Android Studio.
Pricing:
ARCore is available for free. However, specific use cases or larger projects may incur cloud expenses on the Google Cloud platform.
Pros:
- Allows for integration of digital objects into the physical world effectively
- Extensive compatibility with Android devices
- Supports popular development tools like Unity and Unreal Engine
Cons:
- Limited to Android devices, not compatible with iOS
- Requires devices with specific capabilities to fully leverage its features
- May need advanced knowledge in Android development to maximize its potential
9. ARKit - Best for iOS augmented reality developments
ARKit is Apple's framework for creating augmented reality experiences on iOS devices. Leveraging the device's sensors and hardware capabilities, it allows developers to create sophisticated, interactive AR applications.
Given its deep integration with iOS, ARKit stands out as the best choice for iOS augmented reality developments.
Why I Picked ARKit:
When it came to choosing a platform specifically tailored for iOS AR developments, ARKit was a clear winner. It stands out for its integration with iOS and the comprehensive suite of tools it provides. Having weighed the options, I judged ARKit to be the best tool for developing augmented reality experiences on iOS devices.
Standout Features & Integrations:
ARKit provides numerous features like accurate motion tracking, scene understanding, and light estimation, which are essential for creating immersive AR experiences. Its ability to create shared AR experiences across multiple user devices is particularly notable. ARKit also integrates well with other Apple development tools, such as Swift and Xcode.
Pricing:
ARKit is a free-to-use tool provided by Apple. However, to distribute apps on the App Store, developers would need to enroll in the Apple Developer Program, which costs $99/year.
Pros:
- Integration with iOS, leading to high performance on Apple devices
- Offers shared AR experiences across multiple user devices
- Rich set of features for creating immersive AR experiences
Cons:
- Limited to Apple devices, not compatible with Android
- Requires knowledge of Apple's development ecosystem to fully leverage
- Cost associated with distributing apps on the App Store
10. Windows Mixed Reality - Best for hybrid reality experiences on Windows
Windows Mixed Reality (WMR) is a platform by Microsoft that supports both augmented reality and virtual reality, providing a hybrid reality experience. With the help of compatible hardware and Windows 10, it allows developers to create immersive applications that blur the lines between the physical and virtual worlds. Given its integration with the Windows ecosystem and hybrid reality capabilities, WMR is the best tool for creating mixed-reality experiences on Windows.
Why I Picked Windows Mixed Reality:
When selecting a platform for developing hybrid reality experiences on Windows, Windows Mixed Reality emerged as a clear choice. It distinguishes itself through its ability to support both AR and VR, providing a comprehensive platform for mixed reality.
Considering these features and the fact that it's directly built into Windows 10, I have judged WMR as the best choice for creating mixed-reality experiences on Windows.
Standout Features & Integrations:
WMR provides features such as spatial sound, gaze input, gesture input, and motion controllers, enhancing the user's mixed reality experience. Importantly, it has a unique feature of a virtual home environment where users can run their applications. It integrates with Windows 10 and also works well with development tools like Unity and Unreal Engine.
Pricing:
The Windows Mixed Reality platform itself doesn't have a cost attached to it, but the compatible hardware has a starting price that varies based on the manufacturer and specifications. Developers might also need to consider the cost of development tools, if any.
Pros:
- Supports both augmented reality and virtual reality
- Direct integration with Windows 10
- Compatible with major game development tools like Unity and Unreal Engine
Cons:
- Cost of compatible hardware could be a barrier
- Mixed reality experiences require high-end hardware for best results
- Limited to Windows ecosystem, restricting cross-platform development
11. SteamVR - Best for integration with Steam's gaming ecosystem
SteamVR is a Virtual Reality system with tools and services available via the Steam platform. It allows users to experience VR content powered by Valve's software, tying in with the vast gaming ecosystem of Steam.
Considering its intrinsic connection to Steam, SteamVR stands out as the optimal choice for developers and users looking to integrate VR experiences into the Steam gaming ecosystem.
Why I Picked SteamVR:
I selected SteamVR due to its unique position in the VR market. It stands out due to its direct integration with the Steam platform, a leading digital distribution platform in the gaming industry. The integration with the established Steam ecosystem makes it a compelling choice for both developers and gamers.
Based on these factors, I determined that SteamVR is best for integration with Steam's gaming ecosystem.
Standout Features & Integrations:
SteamVR features robust support for a variety of VR headsets and controllers, and it also provides a VR interface for accessing games and other applications on the Steam platform.
Furthermore, the SteamVR Tracking feature enables high-performance, room-scale tracking. For integrations, SteamVR operates smoothly with VR development platforms like Unity and Unreal Engine, and of course, it's directly tied into the Steam platform.
Pricing:
The SteamVR software itself is free to use on the Steam platform, however, the necessary VR hardware is separately priced and varies by manufacturer and model.
Pros:
- Direct integration with the extensive Steam platform
- Support for a wide range of VR headsets and controllers
- High-performance, room-scale tracking
Cons:
- The need for separately priced VR hardware can increase the total cost
- Limited to the Steam ecosystem
- Can require high-end hardware for optimal performance
12. Unity Engine - Best for multiplatform game developments
Unity Engine is a robust game development platform that enables creators to build interactive 2D, 3D, AR, and VR experiences. Its capacity to deploy games across multiple platforms makes it a popular choice among developers worldwide.
Given its comprehensive set of features and extensive platform support, Unity is an excellent choice for multiplatform game development.
Why I Picked Unity Engine:
I chose Unity Engine due to its impressive versatility and wide-ranging support for different platforms. The ability to design and deploy games across more than 20 platforms sets it apart from many other game development tools.
I judged Unity to be the best tool for multiplatform game development because of its extensive platform support, combined with its powerful suite of design and development features.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Unity offers a variety of features that make game development more efficient and easier. These include a powerful rendering engine, a visual scripting system, and tools for creating cinematics. It also integrates with popular tools used in game development, including Blender for 3D modeling, FMOD for audio, and Visual Studio for coding.
Pricing:
Unity Engine pricing begins at $40/user/month, billed annually. This plan, Unity Pro, is suited for professional developers and includes additional features and capabilities compared to the free Personal edition.
Pros:
- Extensive multiplatform support
- Powerful suite of development tools
- Good integration with other popular development tools
Cons:
- Steep learning curve for beginners
- High-performance games may require advanced optimization
- Professional version can be costly for independent developers
Other Impressive VR Engines
Below is a list of additional vr engines that I shortlisted, but did not make it to the top 12.
- ApertusVR - Good for building open-source, platform-independent VR and AR experiences
- GameMaker - Good for novice developers seeking an easy entry into game creation
- Unigine - Good for creating high-quality simulations with photorealistic graphics
- Panda3D - Good for open-source game development with Python scripting
- OpenXR - Good for a unified, cross-platform application interface for VR and AR
- A-Frame - Good for building VR experiences with web technologies
- Varwin - Good for creating enterprise-grade VR projects without coding
- Open 3D Engine - Good for creating high-fidelity, real-time 3D environments
- Godot Engine - Good for comprehensive 2D and 3D game development with a user-friendly interface
- AppGameKit - Good for coding beginners with its easy-to-learn language
- JanusVR - Good for creating and exploring multi-user virtual spaces
- Vizard - Good for academic and commercial researchers in VR
Selection Criteria For Picking VR Engine
When choosing augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) development tools, a few particular factors come to the forefront. I've tested, researched, and pored over dozens of these tools, carefully examining their strengths and weaknesses against a predetermined set of criteria that I believe holds the utmost importance for developers in this field.
Core Functionality
For AR and VR development tools, the core functions should include:
- The ability to create immersive 3D environments
- Support for various input devices like VR controllers, hand tracking, eye tracking, and more
- The capacity to build both AR and VR experiences, with a preference for tools that can do both
Key Features
When it comes to key features, there are a few I prioritized during my examination:
- Cross-platform compatibility: The tool should allow developers to create experiences that can run on multiple platforms, such as iOS, Android, Windows, Mac, and various VR and AR headsets.
- High-quality rendering: For a truly immersive experience, the tool should support high-quality, real-time 3D rendering.
- Physics engine: A built-in physics engine is essential for creating realistic interactions within the VR or AR environment.
- Multi-user support: The capacity to create experiences that multiple users can participate in simultaneously is a valuable feature.
- Customizability: The more the tool allows for customization, the more unique and creative the resulting experiences can be.
Usability
From the perspective of usability, there are some specific elements that I think are crucial for these tools:
- User Interface: Given the complexity of 3D development, a clean, organized, and intuitive user interface is key. It should make complex tasks manageable and straightforward.
- Learning Curve: The tool should be accessible to users with varying levels of experience. Therefore, it should come with comprehensive documentation, tutorials, and community support.
- Performance and Stability: The tool should be well and stable, capable of handling large projects without significant slowdowns or crashes.
- Customer Support: Robust customer support can greatly aid in problem-solving and learning. Forums, chat support, email support, and extensive knowledge bases are all advantageous.
Most Common Questions Regarding VR Engines (FAQs)
What are the benefits of using a VR development engine?
Using a VR development engine comes with several benefits, including:
- Ease of Development: VR development engines provide tools and pre-built assets that make creating VR experiences more efficient and less complicated than starting from scratch.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: Most VR engines support various platforms, making it easier to develop experiences for different devices without having to rewrite your code.
- Community Support: Popular VR engines usually have large and active communities that can provide support, tutorials, and assets to assist in development.
- High-quality Rendering: These engines often include advanced rendering technology, which allows for the creation of visually stunning VR experiences.
- Built-in Physics Engine: VR engines typically include a built-in physics engine, enabling developers to create more realistic interactions and behaviors in the VR environment.
How much do VR development engines typically cost?
The pricing for VR development engines can vary greatly depending on the capabilities of the engine and the intended use. Some engines are available for free, especially for non-commercial or educational use. On the other hand, professional-grade engines can range from $15 to hundreds of dollars per month. Some engines also take a percentage of revenue generated by the games or applications created with them.
What are the typical pricing models for VR development engines?
Pricing models for VR development engines can include:
- Freemium: A basic version of the engine is available for free, with advanced features or capabilities available at a cost.
- Subscription: Users pay a monthly or yearly fee to use the engine.
- Revenue Share: Some engines are free to use, but take a percentage of revenue generated from games or applications created using the engine.
What are the cheapest and most expensive VR development engines?
The cheapest VR development engines include free options such as Godot Engine and Panda3D, while the more expensive options include engines like Unity and Unreal Engine, which can cost hundreds of dollars per month for their full-featured versions.
Are there any free options for VR development engines?
Yes, there are several free options for VR development engines. Some popular choices include Godot Engine, Panda3D, and A-Frame. Note that while these engines can be used for free, certain restrictions may apply, especially for commercial use.
Other Virtualization Software Reviews
Summary
In conclusion, choosing the right VR development engine depends on a variety of factors, including the developer's expertise, budget, project requirements, and the desired platforms. Some engines are more beginner-friendly while others offer more advanced features for experienced developers.
Key Takeaways
Here are three key takeaways from this buyer's guide:
- Understand Your Requirements: Different VR engines excel in various areas. For example, if you're creating a VR game, an engine with robust game physics and graphic rendering capabilities, like Unity or Unreal Engine, might be a good choice. On the other hand, for a simpler VR project or educational purposes, a free and easy-to-use engine like Godot might suffice.
- Consider the Costs: VR engine costs vary from free to several hundred of dollars per month. Apart from the initial costs, also consider potential costs like revenue sharing and the need for additional assets or tools that might not be included in the base price.
- Community and Support: An active community and good support can be a lifesaver, especially for those new to VR development. Communities can provide guidance, share tutorials, and offer assets that can help accelerate the development process. Engines like Unity and Unreal Engine have extensive communities and plenty of online resources.
In the end, the best VR engine will depend on your specific needs and circumstances. It's always a good idea to try a few different options and see which one feels the most comfortable and fits your requirements best.
What Do You Think?
Absolutely! I hope this guide has been helpful in your search for the perfect VR engine. However, the field of VR is vast and constantly evolving, and there may be other great tools out there that I didn't mention. If you've used or know of a VR engine that should be included in this list, please do not hesitate to share it. I'd love to hear about your experiences and possibly include your suggestions in future updates of this guide.