A free Breath of the Wild VR mod called BetterVR is now available and allows you to play the entire game in virtual reality from Link’s perspective. If you’ve ever wished the game was all around you instead of sitting on a screen, then this is the closest thing yet.
It is also a real commitment. BetterVR was designed for the Wii U emulated version of Breath of the Wild, meaning you’ll need the right software, the right hardware, and your own copy of the game before you can even get started.
The reason people pay attention is the craftsmanship. This was built by one person over five years, and the result is not presented as a quick camera trick. It tries to turn a huge open-world RPG into something that behaves like a VR game.
What you need to run
BetterVR is intended for the emulated Wii U build and runs on Cemu. You’ll need a copy of Breath of the Wild for Wii U, a reasonably powerful PC, and a VR headset. If you don’t have a VR headset, check out the best VR headsets now.
If you need some background before diving in, link to our Cemu Wii U emulator explainer for context, and link to our guide to the best VR headsets for PC if you don’t yet know which headset suits your setup.
Why this feels like VR
BetterVR is described as fully stereo rendered with 6DOF and no alternating eye rendering. The goal is a real sense of depth and presence, not a flat perspective slapped in your face.
It also supports full hand and arm tracking. You can attack monsters and cut down trees by moving. Gesture controls are also included, e.g. B. when you reach behind your back to grab your sword. If you prefer something less physical, normal key commands are still supported.
What to watch next
Nintendo is the joker. The mod is described as not containing any Breath of the Wild files, which can be helpful but is no guarantee of anything once a project gets attention.
When your gear is ready, the practical step is to try it out sooner rather than later and base expectations on your own tolerance for VR comfort and long sessions. Check out our guide if you are a new player replaying.
