What you need to know
- Virtual Desktop's SteamVR feature allows users to stream PC games to their Oculus Quest.
- The feature had to be removed from the app because of a request by Oculus.
- Users can now sideload the SteamVR feature to their Oculus Quest.
Updated November 18, 2019: If you'd like a guide on how to play SteamVR games on the Oculus Quest, you can check out our step-by-step guide.
Streaming PC games to the Oculus Quest has become more complicated but is still available through the Virtual Desktop app thanks to sideloading. While the Oculus Quest is an untethered VR headset that can play games and use apps without requiring a PC, it can't run some more demanding games. Virtual Desktop allows users to stream their PC to their Oculus Quest, and until recently it had the ability built in to stream games through SteamVR. But Oculus requested the feature be removed. Despite pushback from the VR community, the feature was officially removed in the latest update.
The developer behind the app has reached out on Reddit to explain the situation. The developer states that while the SteamVR feature had to be removed from Virtual Desktop, you can still get it by sideloading it onto your Oculus Quest. Doing this requires that you've purchased Virtual Desktop for your Oculus Quest which costs $20.
Sideloading games and apps onto the Oculus Quest was initially quite complicated, but SideQuest is a program designed to make it easier. Once you set it up, you can easily install APKs onto your Oculus Quest.
Freedom to move
The Oculus Quest is an untethered VR headset. That means you don't have to duck and dodge around wires when you're playing. As a result, you can bring VR almost anywhere and immerse yourself in gameplay.
Additional Equipment
The Oculus Quest has everything you need to run it in the box, but you can still add some accessories to enhance the experience and help you take it with you on the go.
Oculus Quest Travel Case ($40 at Amazon)
This case will protect your Oculus Quest when you're on the go and has enough room for the headset and Touch Controllers.
Quest Deluxe Strap ($20 at Studio Form Creative)
This strap adds another layer of support to the head strap that's built into the Oculus Quest. It helps distribute weight across your head to improve comfort, which is important for longer sessions.
Panasonic rechargeable batteries ($19 at Amazon)
These batteries can be recharged up to 2,100 times and are a great way to keep your Touch Controllers charged and ready to go.
