Dead Second on Meta Quest delivers a nostalgic yet exciting arcade-inspired VR experience, channeling the spirit of classic arcade lightgun shooters like Time Crisis into a modern virtual reality setting. Developed by Spunge Games, the game offers a straightforward premise: as a gun-for-hire in a dystopian city, you eliminate corrupt entities through a series of missions. As with most games of this type, the narrative serves as a functional backdrop, allowing the gameplay to take center stage.
The game’s mechanics are rooted in a node-based teleportation system, enabling players to move between fixed cover points. This design choice simplifies navigation and keeps the focus on shooting mechanics. The standout feature is the titular “Dead Second” bullet-time system, which activates upon defeating an enemy, slowing down time and allowing for strategic dodging and precision shooting. This mechanic adds an extra layer of depth and excitement to the otherwise straightforward shooting sequences.
Weapon handling in Dead Second is notably satisfying. Reloading involves ejecting magazines and reaching over the shoulder for replacements, a process that feels intuitive and responsive. The game offers a variety of firearms, from pistols to submachine guns, each with distinct characteristics. Earning in-game currency through missions allows for the purchase of new weapons and cosmetic upgrades, providing a sense of progression and personalization.
Visually, the game presents clean and functional environments, ranging from subway stations to office complexes. While the graphics are not groundbreaking, they serve the game’s purpose and maintain a consistent aesthetic while working within the technical constraints of standalone VR. The audio design complements the action, with sound effects and music enhancing the immersive experience.
However, Dead Second is not without its rougher edges. The game features a limited number of levels – eight in total – which can be completed relatively quickly. While the inclusion of multiple difficulty settings and leaderboards adds replayability, some players may find the content lacking in variety and depth. Additionally, the enemy AI, while competent, could benefit from more diversity in behavior and tactics.
In conclusion, Dead Second offers a compelling VR shooting experience that pays homage to classic arcade games – which also accounts for its brevity. Its intuitive mechanics, satisfying gunplay, and engaging bullet-time system make it an enjoyable title for both newcomers and veterans of VR shooters. While it may not offer extensive content, its quality execution makes it a worthwhile addition to any VR enthusiast’s library.
Score: 7.9/10
Press Play Media 