Gorilla Tag: A Gravity-Defying VR Game of Tag

Gorilla Tag, developed by Another Axiom, is a unique and engaging virtual reality (VR) action game that throws players into a chaotic and hilarious world of gravity-defying gorillas. The core gameplay revolves around a simple concept – tag – but elevates it through innovative mechanics and a vibrant, jungle-themed environment. While initially free, it now offers a free option for Meta users and a paid version on Steam, bringing a unique blend of physical exertion, social interaction, and competitive gameplay to the VR landscape.

Gameplay and Modes: Swinging, Climbing, and Tagging Your Way to Victory

The premise of Gorilla Tag is deceptively simple: players take on the role of gorillas engaged in a game of tag within a sprawling, three-dimensional jungle environment. However, these aren’t your average gorillas; they possess superhuman agility, able to effortlessly scale walls, swing from branches, and leap across vast distances with gravity seemingly bending to their will. This unique movement system is what sets Gorilla Tag apart from other tag games. Forget traditional controls; movement is achieved entirely through the use of arm and hand movements tracked by a VR headset. This innovative approach transforms the game into a full-body experience, requiring players to actively use their physical bodies to navigate the environment. The result is an exhilarating and engaging gameplay loop that is both challenging and incredibly rewarding to master.

The game offers three distinct modes, each catering to different play styles and preferences:

• Casual Mode: This mode acts as a relaxed social space where players can practice their movement skills, meet new people, and generally have fun without the pressure of competition. It’s an ideal environment for newcomers to learn the ropes and for experienced players to simply socialize and enjoy the game’s unique atmosphere.

• Infection Mode: In Infection Mode, the stakes are significantly higher. One player is designated as “infected,” their objective being to tag as many other players as possible, spreading the infection throughout the server. The uninfected players must work together to evade the infected gorilla, avoiding being tagged and maintaining their infection-free status. This mode introduces a thrilling element of chase and evasion, encouraging strategic thinking and teamwork among the uninfected players.

• Hunt Mode: This unique mode introduces a twist on the traditional tag formula. One player assumes the role of the hunter, their task being to track down and tag a specific target (a “monkey”) within the game’s environment. Tracking is facilitated through a wristwatch mechanic, adding an additional layer of strategy and suspense to the gameplay.

Regardless of the mode chosen, mastering the game’s unique movement mechanics is crucial for success. There are no buttons, joysticks, or teleportation options; every movement is a result of physical actions mirrored in the virtual world. This requires practice and coordination, but mastering the art of swinging, climbing, and leaping as a virtual gorilla is immensely satisfying. For those who prefer a less physically demanding experience, a desktop mode is available, eliminating the need for a VR headset and simplifying movement controls.

Platform Availability and Pricing: VR Exclusivity with Some Exceptions

Gorilla Tag’s primary platform is VR, and the game shines in this environment. While the experience is fundamentally designed for VR headsets, the game’s accessibility is noteworthy. Initially, it was completely free to play on all platforms. However, this has changed with recent updates. Currently, VR users with a Meta account can still acquire the game for free. The premium “Summer Splash Pack” is available as an in-app purchase, offering three exclusive cosmetic items and 10,000 Shiny Rocks (in-game currency). On Steam, however, the game is a paid title, offering 5,000 Shiny Rocks upon purchase. This dual pricing model caters to a broader audience, offering free access to Meta VR users while allowing Steam players to support the developers directly.

Importantly, the game remains a VR-exclusive title. Despite the existence of mobile apps and games with similar names and logos, these are not official releases and are not developed by Another Axiom. Players should only acquire the game through official channels like Steam or the Meta Quest store to ensure a legitimate and enjoyable experience.

Age Appropriateness and Community Considerations: Navigating the Jungle of Online Interactions

Gorilla Tag’s age appropriateness is a topic requiring careful consideration. The core gameplay is largely harmless, involving playful chasing and tagging. However, the online multiplayer aspect introduces potential concerns. Public servers lack content filters, and players of all ages may interact freely. While the game itself does not contain violence or inappropriate content, the potential for exposure to online toxicity and potentially inappropriate language from other players warrants parental supervision. Parents should be mindful of this aspect, and it’s recommended to limit playtime for younger children or to consider utilizing private servers with trusted friends to mitigate these risks. Muting chat entirely remains a viable option for those concerned about online interactions.

Seasonal Content and Updates: A Continuously Evolving Jungle

Gorilla Tag receives consistent updates and seasonal content, keeping the gameplay fresh and exciting. Recent updates have included:

• “I Lava You” Update: Introduced a volcanic area to the Forest map, adding new challenges and lava-themed obstacles. Love and flame-themed cosmetic items were also added to the in-game shop.

• GT3 Anniversary Update: To celebrate the game’s third anniversary, exclusive cosmetic items and decorations were made available.

• Winter Flashback Update: This update introduced a collection of cozy winter-themed clothing and accessories, perfectly suited for snowy gameplay sessions.

These ongoing updates demonstrate the developer’s commitment to keeping the Gorilla Tag experience engaging and dynamic, adding value to the game over time.

Should You Play Gorilla Tag? Weighing the Pros and Cons

Gorilla Tag presents a compelling blend of unique gameplay mechanics, social interaction, and a vibrant virtual environment. The game excels in its ability to combine physical activity with digital entertainment, offering an engaging and often hilarious experience. However, potential downsides should be considered before taking the plunge:

Pros:

• Three engaging and diverse gameplay modes: Casual, Infection, and Hunt offer variety and cater to different playstyles.
• Simple, intuitive core mechanics: The concept of tag is easy to grasp, but mastering the movement system adds a significant layer of challenge.
• Highly immersive VR experience: The full-body movement system greatly enhances the sense of presence and engagement.
• Online multiplayer facilitates social interaction: The ability to connect with others and play in public or private servers adds a social element.

Cons:

• Movement system requires practice and coordination: Mastering the unique movement mechanics takes time and effort.
• Potential for encountering toxic players in public lobbies: Online multiplayer inherently involves the risk of encountering negative behavior from other players.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to play Gorilla Tag depends on individual preferences and tolerance for online interactions. If you’re looking for a unique and physically engaging VR experience with a focus on fun and social interaction, Gorilla Tag is definitely worth considering. However, be prepared for a learning curve in mastering the movement system and be mindful of the potential for encountering negative behavior in public servers. For a more controlled experience, stick to private servers with friends or utilize the chat mute function.