Wolfenstein 3D (1992), the first-person shooter developed by id Software, kickstarted an entire genre, and now you can play the generational icon in VR.
The project, dubbed Wolfenstein 3D VR, features all ten original levels. While the game’s patented 2D sprites are still in full effect, you can enjoy a fully recreated 3D environment as you physically aim down the iron sights of your Walther P38 and try to land those decisive ammo-saving headshots.
Of course, should you run out of ammo on those last few Nazis in the level, you can always switch to your trusty boot knife too.
The game, which indie studio Further Beyond calls its “shareware release”, is free, and supports Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, and Windows VR headsets. Wolfenstein 3D VR is still in development, as Further Beyond has only recently added both Rift and Windows VR support after its initial Vive-only release last week.
Having played a bit myself, it’s amazing how the game flawlessly transports you back to the early ’90s while including all of the original game’s music and cheesy sound effects (Mein Leben!). A few clever modern-day additions make for a nice touch such as a hand-held status indicator so you can keep an eye on your health and overall points without it getting in the way.
You can also change your P38 to a more realistic model, switch between head and hand-relative locomotion, toggle realistic blood on and off, and go left-handed too.
Even though Wolfenstein 3D VR is missing a few comfort options outside of teleportation at the moment, such as snap-turn for 180-degree setups, it proves to be an extremely competent remake certainly worth a Jolt Cola-filled evening of nostalgia.
You can download the game here. You can also support Further Beyond Studios via their Patreon page.