Classic VR improved for newer headsets.

When it released, Arizona Sunshine (2016) was a revelation for virtual reality (VR) enthusiasts who wanted to face a zombie apocalypse.

The game was one of the earliest in the VR space to create a proper campaign experience, setting players as one of the few remaining humans trying to find a way to survive as they make their way to Sunshine, Ariz.

While the game was a defining entry for developer Vertigo Games into the then growing VR space, it was not without its faults. In fact, playing the 2016 version after the sequel, things like like lower graphics, an inability to hold a pistol with two hands, and janky controls, stand out against the relatively short length and story consisting of an overall thread tying together zombie mutilation.

As of today – Oct. 17 – those looking to revisit the zombie wasteland can hop in by playing the Remake. This version includes graphical and gameplay improvements  – alongside technical advantages of certain headsets – to make this the best version possible of the game. The Remake also includes all previously released DLC for the game.

Playing this game on the PlayStation VR2 (PSVR2) is a massive step up from the original version on Quest – or even the first PSVR. Not only are the graphical improvements noticeable from the second you “wake up” in the cave, but once you get out and start mowing down zombies, you’ll see things look very in line with that of the sequel Arizona Sunshine 2 (2023).

Players can now hold a pistol with two hands, and use weapons like crowbars and machetes to melee kill the hordes, all while taking in the much improved – and pretty awe inspiring – surroundings in the Arizona desert. Vertigo Games also upgraded the mutilation and gore system which is more in line with the improvements seen in the sequel last year.

Considering the inability to use melee weapons for killing zombies in the original, adding it here means making changes to the mutilation system was warranted.

An overhaul of the technical aspects of the game means that it’s now much easier to move around. For those who may seem confused by this, think back to playing on the first PSVR – and its Move Controllers. Remember how lacking these were and the sacrifices with which gamers who used this had to contend?

In fact, all versions of the game only allowed movement via teleport until early 2017 when it was added in via an update. Even then, PSVR was one of the lesser ways to play – unless you had the Aim Controller – which added the immersion of a gun stock and analog sticks for movement. The disadvantages of this controller came in the form of only being able to use two-handed weapons.

Now, all those problems are a thing of the past as the Sense Controllers on PSVR2, work perfectly to give each VR hand the ability to help you survive. Want to hold an axe in one hand with a pistol in the other? Feel free, as the Remake lets you take on the apocalypse your way. You’re also able to holster a two-handed weapon over your shoulders here – the original allowed only for two hip holster slots for weapons – bringing this version of the game even more in line with VR games of today.

Using guns here also takes advantage of the adaptive triggers, allowing you to feel the difference between firing your basic starter pistol, and that of the numerous guns you’ll pick up along the way.

Playing through the game in pre-release format, there were no bugs that stood out. However, some of the graphics did look a little soft/flat at times. A representative from Vertigo Games noted that some graphical issues may be present in the version before launch, but they were working to iron them out by time it went live. So, anything that didn’t look so good should be expected to be gone by release time later today.

While this Remake is the best version of Arizona Sunshine to play, one of the highlights for those who own this and want to jump back in, comes in the form of an upgrade path. Anyone who owns the original game on PlayStation, Quest, and PCVR can upgrade to the remake for just $9.99.

If you own the original and are looking for something to play, upgrading for just $10 is an incredible price considering the amount of work that went into making this game what it is right now. It’s no wonder Quest+ – the PlayStation Plus of the Quest headsets – had the original Arizona Sunshine in their rotating catalogue last month, only to remove it when October started. The pull of the cheap upgrade would be too great for those who want to experience an already stellar game in a new – and upgraded – light.

Vertigo Games did an incredible job breathing new life into this zombie shooter. Whether you’re replaying this game or jumping in for the first time, playing the Arizona Sunshine Remake is a great time – and value if you take the upgrade path.

While the core of this game remains the same – it’s short and the story is very minimal – stepping back into the world of Arizona Sunshine via the Remake, is like a different experience; and one you should not forego as we continue through the spookiest month of the year.

If you’re looking for something to hold you over until Vertigo Games’ next big release – Metro Awakening – then the Arizona Sunshine Remake is the perfect game to play.

Arizona Sunshine Remake, was reviewed on the PSVR2 after receiving a pre-release key.