Mark Zuckerberg’s Meta is launching a new subscription service for the Meta Quest VR headset. The service, dubbed Meta Quest+, will offer its subscribers the choice of two hand-picked gaming titles every month.
The launch marks a significant shift in the sales and marketing strategy at Meta.
The Netflix of VR
A new subscription service for Meta Quest headset owners is being likened to the Netflix of VR.
Each month Meta Quest+ will offer two new gaming titles for download. While these titles are changed every month, subscribers will still be able to access all of the previously downloaded titles for play for as long as they continue subscribing. Users who cancel their subscription and later restart it once again will be able to access all previously downloaded titles.
Meta is marketing the service, priced at $7.99 per month or $59.99 annually, as great value for money.
A statement from Meta released Monday said:
“Subscription services have been a great way to get more bang for your buck as far back as the Blockbuster days.”
The statement continued, “And at a monthly value of up to $60 USD, Meta Quest+ combines affordability with the convenience of a curated experience. We’re excited to give gamers on Meta Quest a new way to explore all their headsets have to offer.”
To add to the value proposition Meta is offering the first month to new subscribers at a reduced cost of $1. The introductory promotion lasts until July 31, 2023.
Meta Quest+ is available for owners of both the Meta Quest 2 and Quest Pro headsets. It is also forward-compatible with the upcoming Meta Quest 3.
A change of Meta Quest’s focus
The launch of the service corroborates earlier reports that Meta is retooling its metaverse division to place more emphasis on gaming experiences.
As MetaNews reported in April teams working on gaming-related projects at the firm have avoided layoffs, while almost every other division has borne the brunt of swinging cuts.
Workers at the company are now working hard to pivot the Meta Quest towards gaming experiences. There are further rumors that Meta is hoping to bring a major gaming franchise such as Call of Duty or Grand Theft Auto to the Meta Quest store.
First titles available
The first two titles to launch on Meta Quest+ are Pistol Whip by Cloudhead Games and Pixel Ripped 1995 from ARVORE.
Pistol Whip is a first-person shooter game that combines rhythmic and musical elements, while Pixel Ripped is a nostalgia-fueled arcade adventure game within a game.
The two titles in August are Walkabout Mini Golf and MOTHERGUNSHIP: FORGE by Mighty Coconut and Terrible Poster Games respectively.
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