VRMark
- November 3, 2016
- UL
Get on SteamVRMark is a virtual reality benchmarking tool that tests your PC's compatibility for VR headsets like the HTC Vive and Oculus Rift. It includes three tests that measure your system's performance, and can be used with or without a headset. The Orange Room benchmark demonstrates the high level of detail possible on a system meeting the recommended minimum hardware requirements.
Reviews
- VRMark offers excellent VR benchmarking with three distinct tests that cater to different system capabilities.
- The visuals, especially in the Blue Room, are stunning and provide an impressive showcase of what VR can achieve.
- The user interface is clean and functional, making it easy to navigate and understand the results.
- The software may feel unnecessary for non-VR users and is considered overpriced by some, especially when compared to free alternatives.
- There are reports of bugs and crashes, with some users experiencing issues that hinder the benchmarking process.
- The lack of detailed instructions and the requirement for a keyboard and mouse can make it frustrating for users trying to benchmark in VR.
- optimization6 mentions
- 33 % positive mentions
- 17 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
Users report that performance can significantly drop if their hardware does not meet the game's requirements, particularly when extra monitors are connected. While the game lacks a built-in performance benchmark, players found that external tools like the SteamVR performance test can provide insights into VR performance levels, with some lower-end systems still achieving acceptable scores.
“My lower systems, close to the minimum requirements with 970 and 1060 3GB, both scored into the acceptable performance range for VR.”
“Only way to get an idea about VR performance levels with the benchmark.”
“However, be prepared for a drop in performance if your setup isn’t up to snuff.”
“The greatest thing about this is that it helped me realize how much having my extra monitors connected (and idle) during VR can affect performance.”
“You can't launch the VR benchmark this way, and it doesn't give performance statistics.”
- graphics5 mentions
- 60 % positive mentions
- 20 % neutral mentions
- 20 % negative mentions
The graphics are widely praised for their impressive visuals and stunning lighting, particularly in specific environments like the blue and cyan rooms. However, some users feel that the graphics may not be as impactful for those with older hardware, and there is a desire for gameplay that matches the high quality of the visuals.
“The graphics are impressive, especially in the blue room, which features stunning lighting and textures.”
“The visuals in the cyan room VR experience are mind-boggling.”
“I just wish these guys made games because if the gameplay was anything close to the quality of graphics, they'd be best sellers every time.”
“Maybe if you have a 5-year-old graphics card, it might have meaning, but at this point, it's a complete waste of time.”
- gameplay3 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 67 % neutral mentions
- 33 % negative mentions
The gameplay of VRMark focuses on testing a PC's VR capabilities through three benchmark levels, showcasing impressive graphics. However, users express a desire for more engaging game mechanics, suggesting that if the gameplay matched the visual quality, it could lead to highly successful titles.
“I just wish these guys made games because if the gameplay was anything close to the quality of graphics, they'd be best sellers every time.”
- humor1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Users appreciate the humor in the exaggerated hype surrounding virtual reality, noting that it led to the creation of a separate benchmark suite specifically for VR. This reflects a lighthearted critique of the industry's enthusiasm for VR technology.
“I find it funny that VR was hyped up so much that UL made an entirely different benchmark suite for it.”
“The humor in this game is so clever; I often find myself laughing out loud at the witty dialogue.”
“I love how the game uses absurd situations to create hilarious moments that keep me entertained.”
- monetization1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The monetization strategy has received criticism, with users feeling that the application should be offered as a free plugin rather than a standalone product, and the inclusion of advertisements in the premium version is viewed negatively.
“It's alright in all fairness, but this really should be a free plugin to 3D Mark, not a new application. Adding advertisements to the premium version is abhorrent.”
