Developer Allware makes no secret of its inspiration from Superhot with its aptly named VR game Chilly VR. Flipping the script with the tagline “Transfer or Die,” this shooter introduces a reversed time mechanic: time slows down if you transfer and quickens if you stand nonetheless. Whereas Superhot used its time-bending function to create strategic, puzzle-like fight, Chilly VR pushes for a extra fast-paced, aggressive type, demanding fast, on-the-fly changes.
Overview Information
Platform reviewed: PCVR by way of Meta Quest 3S
Accessible on: Meta Quest, PC (by way of Steam), PSVR 2
Launch date: February 11, 2025 (PSVR 2 releasing in 2025)
Even the artwork type takes cues from Superhot by focusing extra on easy low-poly visible design with varied shades of white, blue, black, and pink. There’s a visible switch-up throughout non-compulsory intermission horror-inspired ranges referred to as ‘backrooms’ that function darkish orange and black however we’ll contact on that later.
Neither Scorching Or Chilly
The core gameplay loop of Chilly VR has gamers defeating a set quantity of enemies till an space is evident. Dodging bullets and assaults is a should as one hit will ship gamers again to the start of the extent which might stretch fairly lengthy in comparison with Superhot. So lengthy that gamers could discover themselves annoyed by making it far to have to begin throughout contemplating some segments take so long as 10 to fifteen minutes to finish.
A various arsenal of melee weapons and firearms retains the gameplay thrilling and dynamic. After all, gamers can wield these weapons in both hand for a pleasant number of fight choices. Like Superhot, one technique includes having one thing like a sword in a single hand and a pistol in one other as weapons have a finite quantity of bullets. Varied katanas, claws, straight swords, and even shields be a part of pistols, shotguns, machine weapons, assault rifles, and sniper rifles. Enjoying in a flat open enviornment firing away at gun-toting enemies in a single hand and hacking approaching grunts in one other in sluggish movement is usually a euphoric expertise at occasions.
Whilst you can throw weapons and swords at enemies, the awkward physics and clunky controls make it an unreliable fight choice. Including to the frustration, gamers can’t decide up weapons from defeated enemies. This eliminates the type of cinematic moments seen in Superhot, the place you might toss an empty gun at an enemy, watch them shatter into crystal-like fragments, snatch their weapon midair, and seamlessly proceed the battle.
Some platforming parts inside gameplay add some variety to the fight although it doesn’t make good on the promise the opening tutorial brings. Just like Doom, some battle eventualities beg gamers to run on leap pads and shoot enemies whereas in mid-air. Exterior of studying core mechanics, gamers have to make use of the time mechanic to decelerate lasers to move alongside climbing transferring stairs.
The non-compulsory backroom ranges initially supply a refreshing break from the extraordinary fight, difficult gamers to navigate a maze armed with nothing however their wits. These eerie corridors are patrolled by black, spiked creatures that kill on contact and the primary stage successfully builds stress with intelligent flashlight mechanics. Nonetheless, the suspense rapidly fades as these ranges devolve into tedious fetch quests and button hunts. One variation has gamers trying to find three orbs, which could be complicated and not using a map and irritating in case you’re killed mid-search. For completionists, the backroom ranges threat dragging down the sport’s pacing and including pointless frustration as an alternative of serving as a pallette cleanser.
Shining vivid regardless of bugs
Fight can also be damage by bugs that may result in annoying moments. Typically ranges can begin with gamers pointing within the fallacious route which might result in on the spot loss of life. This occurred a number of occasions in a stage that begins with an elevator opening with an enemy already firing in your route. This occurred in different missions that begin with enemies immediately dealing with the participant as effectively. Chilly VR additionally has ammo counters on weapons however a bug makes it inconsistent when gamers see them resulting in an pointless guessing sport.
Although Chilly VR’s gameplay expertise could be pretty inconsistent, its story and presentation shine. Gamers are a bit of software program making an attempt to battle towards a rogue synthetic intelligence led by a menacing drive. The mysterious protagonist is helped by a human hacker who seems by way of a big monitor in between ranges. These live-action FMV (full-motion video) sequences experience a wonderful line between offering over-the-top camp and significant story beats. By the point Chilly VR ends, gamers will also have a nuanced understanding of the principle baddie’s motivations.
Finest Bit
In a single mission, gamers begin perched on a rooftop with a sniper rifle, methodically taking out enemies one after the other as they cock the hammer again between pictures. As soon as the coast is evident, they leap onto the rooftop, unleashing a barrage of dual-pistol fireplace in epic slow-motion to complete the remaining foes.
The FMV sequences add to a respectable-looking sport that blends stable cyberpunk artwork route and nice efficiency. Chilly VR‘s minimalistic artwork design permits for some fairly neat particular results. This consists of implausible particle results, lighting, shadows, and even reflections. All of that’s carried out and not using a trace of slowdown throughout our playthrough. Including to the expertise is an superior techno soundtrack that enhances the texture of fight in significant methods. If there’s one space the place Chilly VR overtakes its inspiration, it’s the presentation division by way of and thru.
Chilly VR presents a novel twist on the time-manipulation shooter components, delivering a visually placing and fast-paced expertise. With its 3.5-hour marketing campaign, it’s a concise but difficult experience that calls for fast reflexes and strategic pondering. The reversed time mechanic – the place time slows as you progress – pushes gamers into extra aggressive fight eventualities. Whereas the gameplay sometimes stumbles with clunky physics, bugs, and a few irritating stage design, Chilly VR excels in its narrative and presentation.
The easy story, bolstered by partaking FMV sequences, provides depth, whereas its cyberpunk aesthetic and dynamic techno soundtrack elevate the general immersion. Regardless of its flaws, Chilly VR stands out for its cool mechanics and polished visuals, making it a worthwhile addition for VR fans looking for a recent tackle the style. At this worth level, it’s an intriguing, albeit imperfect, journey that’s positive to problem and entertain.
Must you play Chilly VR?
Play it if…
Do not play it if…
Accessibility options
Chilly VR presents easy gameplay no matter whether or not you are standing or sitting. Motion is dealt with with the left controller, whereas the appropriate controller permits for each snap and easy turning choices. Gamers can alter snap flip angles and easy flip pace with devoted sliders. Moreover, a vignette slider is offered to darken the display screen’s edges, serving to some visually impaired gamers concentrate on the middle of the picture.
How I reviewed Chilly VR
I reviewed Chilly VR on a gaming PC utilizing a Steam key offered by the developer, enjoying wirelessly on a Meta Quest 3s by way of Steam Hyperlink. The one-player marketing campaign took about three hours to finish, however I spent extra time with the sport to discover it and take a look at it extra intensely.
First reviewed February 2025