Harpagun is a chaotic, cel-shaded VR shooter that thrives on absurdity, physics-driven mayhem, and a healthy dose of post-Soviet satire. Developed by SUPERHOT-veterans at Something Random and available on Meta Quest, it delivers a punchy, short-burst campaign that’s as much about yeeting aliens with washing machines as it is about shooting them.
At its core, Harpagun is a semi-on-rails arcade shooter that trades realism for raw fun. You play as a stranded Soviet-coded grunt on a hostile alien planet, armed with dual gravity claws that let you grab, fling, and smash just about anything – including the enemies themselves. The joy of grabbing a mutant, tearing off its limb, and hurling it into another foe never gets old. This mechanic is more than a gimmick as well; it’s the heart of the game’s chaotic combat loop.
Traditional weapons are present as well, but they often take a backseat to the gravity mechanics. That said, the limited-ammo special weapons – like the laser cannon – pack a satisfying punch and are best saved for tougher encounters. The game’s difficulty can spike unexpectedly, making these moments of using some extra firepower feel both earned and satisfying.
Movement in Harpagun is a hybrid of teleportation and on-rails traversal. You warp between fixed nodes, allowing for quick repositioning without inducing motion sickness. While this system ensures comfort, it can feel restrictive during intense firefights if you’re an experience VR user, limiting your ability to dodge or flank enemies effectively.
Visually, Harpagun is a standout. Its cel-shaded art style is vibrant and crisp, making each environment and character pop within the VR headset. The game runs smoothly on the Meta Quest, with no noticeable frame drops or technical issues during gameplay.
The soundtrack complements the visual chaos with energetic tracks that keep the adrenaline pumping. Sound design is equally impressive, with clear audio cues that help in identifying enemy types and incoming attacks.
The narrative is minimalistic but effective. You receive mission updates and banter from your superiors via a floating TV, adding a layer of humor and context without bogging down the action. The story unfolds through environmental cues and brief dialogues, keeping the focus on gameplay.
Harpagun is a nice hodge-podge of a game. Its unique mechanics, vibrant visuals, and chaotic combat make it a must-try for VR enthusiasts looking for something different. While its movement system may not appeal to everyone, and the difficulty spikes can be jarring, the overall experience is one of unfiltered fun. If you’re in the mood for a VR game that doesn’t take itself too seriously but still delivers solid gameplay, Harpagun is worth your time.
Score: 7.7/10
Press Play Media 