Valve is continuing to show how on top of things it is when it comes to making virtual reality as simple and accessible as possible. A new update to the Steam store introduces specific VR categories when browsing game listings.
Previously, only one simple "VR" category existed. Now, that category has been expanded to include three new sub-categories: Headsets; Input; and Play Area. Currently, the only headset options are HTC Vive and Oculus Rift. The Input categories are Tracked motion controllers (such as the Vive's motion controllers, the Oculus Touch, or the Razer Hydra), Gamepad, and Keyboard/Mouse.
Most interesting is the Play Area category, which allows you to sort by Seated, Standing, and Room-Scale. This means you can search specifically for games that support the Vive's full range of control and movement options, or games that don't require the same kind of tech and play space. However, with the news that the Oculus Rift will support room-scale tracking using the Vive's lighthouse sensors, these categories could be mixed and matched more than is initially apparent.
With every category checked, the total number of VR games available now on Steam comes to 43. Many of which, such as Subnautica and Descent Underground, are still in early access - but when considering VR as a new "medium", that's still an incredibly high number of games to have available on day one.
