VGSources / Games / Valve Corporation
Free to play · action game
The Lab
By Valve Corporation, released 1 Jan 2016
- Microsoft Windows
What it is
The Lab is a free Valve compilation of room-scale VR experiences set in a pocket universe within Aperture Science. Released in 2016, it brings several short activities and explorations together in one application. In Slingshot, players use a slingshot in an Aperture storage facility; Longbow is an archery defense game, while Xortex is an arcade-style space experience. Other pieces include visiting distant locations, exploring a model of the human body made from CT scans, and viewing the solar system.
The collection also includes Robot Repair and Dota’s Secret Shop, with activities ranging from fixing a robot to browsing fantasy wares. Steam lists single-player, tracked controller support, VR support, SteamVR collectibles, leaderboards and Family Sharing. It is VR-only and listed for Windows. Valve is both its developer and publisher.
What players like, and what they don't
- The collection is free to play.
- It includes several distinct VR activities.
- The human-body model uses CT medical scans.
- Steam lists Family Sharing and tracked controller support.
- VR is required.
- It is listed for Windows only.
Who it suits
It suits Windows players with VR who want a collection of varied single-player experiments rather than one continuous game. Its range includes arcade play, archery, exploration and educational experiences.
The Lab gathers a varied set of room-scale VR activities, from arcade-style play to virtual exploration. It is free, but its VR-only and Windows requirements are key considerations.
