RAGER, at first glance, can be described as yet another rhythm-inspired Beat Saber action title. The similarities are obvious: incoming targets, dual-wielding weapons, hacking, blocking, and dodging to the finish line. However, once you spend some time with it, it’s clear that RAGER is trying to add its own twist to the established formula.
Beyond the basic mechanics of slashing and avoiding obstacles is one of the game’s most interesting features: its evolving arsenal system. Rather than sticking to one type of weapon throughout, RAGER gradually introduces new tools of destruction throughout its 12 levels. Players unlock a variety of weapons, including swords, fists, hammers, and more, each providing a slightly different feel and rhythm to combat.
12 Levels, Multiple Weapons…
This progression system adds a welcome layer of variety and keeps the experience from feeling too repetitive. My personal favorite is the last weapon you unlock. Without spoiling the surprise, I will say that it made me feel more powerful than anything before – to the point where, for a moment, I felt like a proper Jedi.
That said, the game does present one design choice that I found frustrating. After unlocking new weapons, RAGER occasionally switches between your left and right hand in some levels.
As soon as I was free to wield a hammer in my left hand and a sword in my right, the game deliberately delayed setting up…
While this may have been intended to challenge muscle memory and increase difficulty, it felt unnecessarily distracting – especially for players still getting used to the machines.
A Really Short Experience, But…
In terms of content, the game is divided into three worlds, each containing four levels. One level throughout the world culminates in a boss fight, which offers a slight increase in intensity. Despite this build, I was able to finish the game relatively quickly – under an hour – and that’s coming from someone who doesn’t excel at rhythm-based VR titles. This may be good for some players who want a compact experience, but others may find the overall length somewhat limited.
FEATURES…
In terms of comfort and affordability, the RAGER does a solid job. The game doesn’t feature smooth turns, but this is rarely a problem as the gameplay keeps it centered. Players can use snap turning with the right stick or simply turn their head and body naturally. It supports both sitting and standing play and doesn’t require a large play area, making it accessible to most VR setups.
Overall, while the RAGER doesn’t completely reinvent the genre, it sets itself apart with its weapon progression system and accessible design. It may not take down the giants of the rhythm-action VR space, but it offers enough variety and autonomy.
Polished, Native 90, DFR, Haptics…
Very little jank to be found here. The game feels polished, responsive, and really fun to play.
Although it’s a relatively small experience – both in terms of file size and overall content – the inclusion of leaderboards will likely help extend its lifespan. That said, at the time of writing, leaderboards are not cross-platform.
The song leans heavily on aggressive, fast-paced tracks. Don’t expect pop music — this is serious, energetic music designed to keep your adrenaline levels high throughout.
DECISION…
There is a small visible haptic on the original visor/PS VR2. The Sense controller has got strong haptics. There is no use of variable risks, which makes sense given that the game does not rely on button presses during action sequences. Visually, however, the game is surprisingly crisp, thanks to dynamic foviated rendering (DFR) and native 90hz.
Performance is smooth and stable throughout, adding to the game’s overall polished presentation. It plays very well, with solid immersion and solid sound that keeps the power up.
However, a short campaign ultimately brought the score down. While the Freestyle modes and Mods add replay value, at a price of $19.99 it still feels less than the overall content.
Watch the trailer for the day below:
