Metaverse gift guide: The best video games and virtual reality headsets to get started in the metaverse – Polygon

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The best gifts for getting into the metaverse, including VR, AR, books, and more
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The “metaverse” has undoubtedly been 2022’s buzzword of choice, as tech corporations have talked it up as the future not just of entertainment but society as a whole.
But it’s not just a vision some undetermined years away; there are versions of the metaverse happening right now, and you can immerse yourself in them whenever you want. For those looking to get primed for the metaverse, this is the guide for you.
We’ve scoured far and wide to recommend the best gifts to get you plugged in, whether to familiarize yourself with the concepts in books, get started in existing virtual worlds, or get the best VR headset to fully immerse yourself.
Whatever your budget and whoever you’re buying for, this guide has multiple categories you can filter through to find the best gifts for you, friends, family, or co-workers.

What are you looking for?
Games Accessories Headsets Books
How much do you want to spend?
$ $$ $$$ $$$$
Starting from $7.99 for 1000 V-Bucks, this precious premium currency makes for an ideal stocking filler for any Fortnite fan. V-Bucks can also be redeemed regardless of what platform you’re playing on.
Target
GameStop
With the flip of a switch, there’s finally a true multiplatform wireless gaming headset, which works whether you’re playing on PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, PC, or mobile, and offers maximum comfort and a long battery life.
Amazon
Target
GameStop
Epic’s battle royale is the biggest metaverse in gaming today and you can play it for free, but this edition available on PS4, PS5, Xbox, and Switch nonetheless makes for an ideal gift that comes with exclusive Minty cosmetics and 1000 V-bucks to get you started.
Amazon
Target
GameStop
One of the most comfortable gaming chairs will also help with posture. Prices vary depending on your level of customization, but the chair also comes with a magnetic memory foam head pillow.
Secret Lab
The all-in-one VR system. From multiplayer games to unique social experiences to joining up with friends at a live show or instructor-led workout, Meta Quest 2 provides new opportunities to meet and connect with others in VR.
Meta
The Roblox metaverse is full of people creating and sharing their own experiences with the platform’s tools. With Robux digital gift cards ranging from $10 to $200, they’re ideal gifts for anyone who loves hanging out with their friends in this creative space.
Target
GameStop
Xbox
This official guide, consisting of 24 lessons of one hour or less, will break down the fundamentals of Roblox’s tools so that you can confidently get creating the game of your dreams.
Amazon
Barnes & Noble
Valve’s headset is one of the most high-end on the market, and this kit includes the base stations and controllers required to take full advantage of the most immersive VR. Just make sure your PC has the specs to match.
Steam
HTC’s latest iteration of its headset built for room-scale VR is a premium upgrade for high-end PC-VR users, featuring a 5K display and an increased field of view for ultimate immersion.
Vive
HP’s headset is a more afforable PC-VR option that’s compatible with VR blockbusters like Half-Life: Alyx. Better yet, cameras are built into the headset so no additional setup in your room is required.
HP
If you’re looking for more tactile immersion than a controller can provide, this wearable vest offers 16 haptic feedback points around the body supported by plenty of VR titles both natively and via mods. A pricier vest with 40 haptic points is also available.
bHaptics
We’re not sure if you’ll really want to feel what it’s like to experience a headshot or a punch to the face, but the next best thing is this haptic face cover that literally gets your head in the game.
bHaptics
Tired of cables pulling you out of the VR experience? Then this quiet and easy-to-install (either permanent or adhesive) pully system is just what you need to give you more room to lose yourself in the virtual world.
Amazon
KIWI design
Nintendo may not be invested in the metaverse, but this AR twist on its beloved Mario Kart series is a fun and novel entry point, as you create tracks and drive around your own courses in your living room.
Target
GameStop
Best Buy
It’s Google Glass but it actually looks kinda cool. It’s also like having your very own private theater for streaming movies and gaming.
Amazon
Given the weight of a VR headset, you might prefer immersive audio that’s a bit lighter. Apple’s third generation Airpods perfectly complement the experience, featuring personalized spatial audio with dynamic head tracking.
Target
Best Buy
Apple
It may be almost a decade old now, but Rockstar’s online component of its extraordinary open world remains one of the most popular virtual destinations. A metaverse of mayhem.
Amazon
Target
GameStop
Best Buy
Cash is king in GTA Online, so be sure to keep your wallet topped up with Shark Cards. Starting from the Bull Shark Cards for $9.99, these make good digital gifts for anyone spending their time in Los Santos.
GameStop
Steam
Xbox
PlayStation
If you want to see where all this metaverse business began, most people will point to this book from author Neal Stephenson.
Amazon
Target
Barnes & Noble
An early attempt at a metaverse, Second Life has long been a staple example of an alternate universe, and this book tells some of the best stories from inside it.
Amazon

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