A New Champion for Futuristic Racing
For fans of high-speed anti-gravity racing, the long absence of new entries in legendary franchises like WipEout and F-Zero has been a painful wait. However, a new contender has not only arrived but threatens to outshine them both. V-Racer Hoverbike, released on 4th November 2025 for PlayStation VR2, is a dazzling experience that finally delivers on the immense promise of virtual reality gaming.
Overcoming VR's Biggest Hurdle
Virtual reality presents a unique challenge for many players: motion sickness. Unlike conventional travel sickness, the initial nausea associated with VR does subside. Most players develop their 'VR legs' after a few weeks of short, consistent play sessions. The reward for this perseverance is a genuinely different form of entertainment, far removed from flat-screen gaming. While titles like Resident Evil Village and Alien: Rogue Incursion master horror in VR, games involving rapid motion have often felt underwhelming, with some, like The Dark Pictures: Switchback VR, criticised for their leisurely pace. V-Racer Hoverbike suffers from no such problem.
Speed, Style, and Razor-Sharp Control
This game takes clear inspiration from the beloved WipEout series, tasking players with tearing through vertiginous sci-fi tracks featuring loop-the-loops and plunging drops, all set to pounding dance music. Yet, this is no mere imitation. The generational leap is immediately apparent, starting with its crisp, razor-sharp visuals. In an era where many VR games can look curiously blurry, V-Racer's world and bikes remain stunningly clear despite the consistently high frame rate and absurd speeds.
The handling model is an even bigger upgrade. It adopts a quasi-simulation style where real-world racing techniques are key. Following the racing line, braking early, and steering into the apex of a corner are essential skills. The bikes feel incredibly responsive, and the game wisely avoids the momentum-sapping collisions that plagued WipEout, ensuring mistakes are less race-wrecking.
A Stroke of Genius in Control
Perhaps the game's most significant breakthrough is its default control method. While you can use an analogue stick or virtual handlebars, the primary mode is a stroke of minor genius. To turn, you lean your chest left and right as if riding an actual motorcycle, while keeping your head level. This initially feels peculiar but provides exceptionally subtle control and dramatically enhances the sense of immersion. You can increase this further by allowing the horizon to lean with you, though this requires veteran-grade VR legs to handle.
Content and Thrilling Multiplayer
The racing model is further refined with mechanics inspired by Mario Kart. You can trigger a turbo start with perfectly timed acceleration, and your bike's performance degrades after collisions or missile hits. Performance can be boosted by consuming weapon power-ups instead of firing them. The game features a small roster of bikes to unlock and 15 tracks, which are also available in reverse and a stunning neon 'Tron'-like aesthetic.
Variety comes from a range of event types across four championships. Alongside standard races and time trials, Elimination disqualifies the last-place rider each lap, and Combat provides full access to weapons. The standout mode is Neon Runner, a solo challenge where you must navigate through tiny green checkpoints while avoiding red ones and blasting mines.
Multiplayer is equally accomplished, with races remaining close and a community that, for now, comprises friendly, chatty adults rather than shrieking children. Best of all, you can get involved without needing a PS Plus membership.
Verdict: The Future is Here
While it may not have Gran Turismo 7's scale, that title has a day job as a flat-screen game. And though WipEout had more content, V-Racer Hoverbike has a superior handling model and is available today. With a livery editor for your bike, suit, and helmet, it’s a VR game that feels genuinely thrilling to play, finally delivering on the medium's estimable promise. If you have any interest in racing games and own a VR headset, V-Racer Hoverbike is one of the best games of this generation.
Score: 8/10
Formats: PlayStation VR2 (reviewed), PC VR, and Meta Quest
Price: £24.49
Publisher: Impact Reality
Developer: VertexBreaker
Release Date: 4th November 2025
Age Rating: 3
