“Reach” VR Preview: A New Era for Cinematic VR

I have been following the VR space for years, and when nDreams announced their new studio, nDreams Elevation, and its debut title, “Reach,” I was immediately hooked. The promise of a cinematic action-adventure designed from the ground up for VR immersion is exactly the kind of experience I crave. I was fortunate enough to get an early look at this highly anticipated title, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. From what I have seen, “Reach” is shaping up to be a true game-changer for the VR medium, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in terms of player agency, fluid movement, and visceral combat.

The game is not about an alien war or a squad of supersoldiers, as some might think. “Reach” is an entirely new, original IP that puts you in the role of a reluctant hero on a dangerous journey. The developers have crafted a world that feels both fantastical and grounded, with an underground civilization and mythical threats that are as compelling as they are dangerous. This is a far cry from the more familiar VR puzzle or arcade-style games. “Reach” is a full-fledged, narrative-driven adventure that promises to be one of the biggest single-player VR titles of the year. The team at nDreams Elevation is positioning this as a “next-gen” VR experience, and based on the demo I played, I would say they are absolutely on the right track.

A New Standard for VR Traversal

One of the most impressive aspects of “Reach” is its approach to movement. Navigating VR worlds can be tricky, but nDreams Elevation has clearly put an incredible amount of thought into making traversal feel natural and intuitive. This is not a teleport-based experience. Instead, you are given a full-body presence that makes every jump, climb, and zipline feel authentic. I found myself instinctively reaching for ledges, pulling myself up with my own two hands, and using a grappling hook to swing across massive chasms.

The game’s movement mechanics are not just about getting from point A to point B, they are a core part of the gameplay loop. The developers have designed the environments to be a playground for your abilities, with verticality and hidden paths that reward exploration. The fluid, gesture-driven system means you can chain together a series of parkour moves, moving through the world with a sense of grace and speed that is simply exhilarating. I felt like a true adventurer, seamlessly flowing from one movement to the next, and it all felt incredibly responsive.

Here is a quick look at the core movement mechanics in “Reach”:

• Free Climbing: Grab and pull yourself up walls, ledges, and vines with a satisfyingly physical motion.
• Dynamic Ziplining: Attach to ziplines and fly across large sections of the world, with control over your speed and direction.
• Grappling Hook: Launch your hook to latch onto specific points, then swing or pull yourself forward.
• Advanced Gauntlets: Use your special gloves to stick to metallic surfaces, opening up new routes and puzzle-solving opportunities.
• Arrow-based Traversal: Fire a special arrow into a wall, then use it as a makeshift platform to climb higher.

Combat that is Actually Immersive

Combat in many VR titles can often feel disconnected, but “Reach” makes you feel like you are truly in the thick of it. The game’s weapons and tools are multifunctional, and every action you take feels deliberate and impactful. My main tools were a bow and a shield, and I quickly discovered how versatile they were. I could use the shield to block incoming attacks, but I could also throw it like a projectile to stun enemies or even use it as a tool to scale walls by sticking it into a surface and using it as a stepping stone. The bow was equally dynamic, not just for shooting enemies but for creating new traversal options with the special arrows.

The enemies I encountered were varied and intelligent, forcing me to think on my feet and adapt my strategy. There was a real sense of danger, and every successful parry or well-aimed shot felt incredibly rewarding. The physics-based combat system means you have full control, and the game responds to your movements with remarkable fidelity. I was ducking under attacks, sidestepping lunging enemies, and feeling every hit I landed. It is a level of tactical depth that is rarely seen in VR action games.

A World Worth Exploring

Beyond the mechanics, the world of “Reach” is a character in itself. The visuals are stunning, with a cinematic scope that is a true feast for the eyes. The art direction blends natural, organic environments with the remnants of an ancient, fantastical civilization. There is a sense of mystery and history around every corner, and I found myself wanting to explore every nook and cranny to uncover the secrets of this world. The level of detail in the environments, from the textures of ancient stone to the way light filters through the canopy, creates a powerful sense of presence and immersion.

The sound design is also top-notch, with a dynamic score that swells and ebbs with the action, and a rich soundscape that brings the world to life. The audio cues of a grappling hook latching onto a surface or the clang of my shield deflecting a blow are deeply satisfying. All these elements work in concert to create an experience that feels truly cohesive and unforgettable.

Here is a brief breakdown of the game’s features:

The Verdict So Far

My preview of “Reach” left me more excited than ever for its full release. nDreams Elevation is not just making another VR game, they are crafting an immersive experience that feels like a watershed moment for the medium. The blend of intuitive, physical movement, deeply engaging combat, and a beautiful, mysterious world sets a new bar for what we can expect from a VR action-adventure. This is a game that truly understands the unique strengths of virtual reality and leverages them to create something special.

I can confidently say that “Reach” is one of my most anticipated titles of the year. If you are a VR enthusiast, a fan of action-adventure games, or simply curious about what the future of gaming holds, this is a title you need to keep on your radar. I cannot wait to get my hands on the final version and lose myself in its world. When it launches this October, I will be the first in line. Keep an eye out for our full review in the coming weeks, and be sure to check out our other previews/reviews for the latest and greatest in the gaming world.