The original Pierhead Arcade is about as close to a “classic” as you can get in the VR space right now. It came out officially in late 2016 but was in Early Access before that. Now, Mechabit are releasing its sequel, the aptly title Pierhead Arcade 2, into Early Access later this week on June 28. At launch it will officially support Rift, Vive, and Index.
The Pierhead Arcade games are all about delivering an authentic carnival-style experience in VR. As opposed to the overly cartoony Carnival Games series from 2K, Pierhead is more inline with something analogous to actual old-timey arcades you might remember visiting on piers and along boardwalks. The previous game included over a dozen games and the sequel looks to do the same with 12 “all-new arcade machines” according to the Steam page. It’s surprising to only see mention of new games since the original included iconic arcade classics like the claw machine, bowling, and basketball. Hopefully some variations of those make it into the sequel.
The big benefit this time around is official support for the Valve Index controllers at Early Access launch, as well as a customizable avatar. Multiplayer will also be included from launch as well.
Right now until July 9, the original Pierhead Arcade is on sale at 50% off so you can grab that now and get a discount on the sequel when it hits Steam later this week if you’re feeling particularly eager.
If you’re a fan of the original or intend on picking up the sequel, let us know what you think down in the comments below! Official Index support is great to see.
