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The Virtual Reviewer

Present day. Present time.

blakepiercehowseBlake Pierce Howse

With my trusty Xbox controller in hand, I'm just as likely to be barking orders to my squadmates in the latest shooter as I am strategizing code architecture with my engineering team. That's me - Blake Howse - principal software engineer by day, gaming enthusiast by night (and often during lunch breaks too). When I'm not glued to a screen writing VR code at Meta, you can usually find me hitting the trails with my wife Patty and two kids, John and Jenette. I love sharing my passion for gaming and tech with them, whether we're testing out new smart home gadgets or getting the hang of the latest VR games. As a self-described outdoorsy techie, I basically have the perfect work-life balance - collaborating with sharp engineers on innovative projects during the day, then coming home to my family to geek out and adventure together. Maybe we'll take our bikes out to hit some local trails or relax at home tinkering with DIY tech projects. Even just gaming into the night with my kids brings me joy.

Best VR Headset for Movies in 2026 (Dad-Tested Picks)

August 13, 2026 by Blake Pierce Howse

The best VR headset for movies in 2026, compared for image quality, comfort, and price. Quest 3, Quest 3S, Apple Vision Pro, and Bigscreen Beyond 2.

Categories VR Guides

Best Multiplayer VR Games 2026: Co-op and Crossplay

August 13, 2026 by Blake Pierce Howse

The best multiplayer VR games for Quest 3 in 2026, from Demeo to Pavlov. Co-op picks, crossplay notes, prices, and how they compare to the VR arcade.

Categories VR Guides

Meta Quest 3 Review 2026: The Best Home VR Pick?

August 12, 2026 by Blake Pierce Howse

Meta Quest 3 review for 2026 from a VR dad who plays arcade rigs. Specs, price, mixed reality, and whether it recreates that free-roam venue feeling at home.

Categories VR Guides

Haptic Vests: Arcade Tech vs Home VR

August 11, 2026 by Blake Pierce Howse

I have worn haptic vests at Sandbox VR and tested a bHaptics suit at home. Here is the honest difference, plus who should buy one for the living room.

Categories VR Guides

Amazon Echo Frames Review: Alexa on Your Face, No Display

August 11, 2026 by Blake Pierce Howse

A dad’s honest take on the Amazon Echo Frames (3rd gen): Alexa audio glasses with no camera and no display. Specs, price, sound, and who they suit.

Categories VR Guides

Two Bit Circus Guide: VR, Games, and 2026 Status

August 8, 2026 by Blake Pierce Howse

Our Two Bit Circus guide covers the micro-amusement park concept, VR and games, pricing, and its current 2026 location status in Santa Monica.

Categories VR Guides

Xreal One Pro Review: AR Glasses a VR Dad Trusts

August 7, 2026 by Blake Pierce Howse

Hands-on-informed Xreal One Pro review: 57 degree FOV, X1 chip, 171 inch screen, price, and how these AR glasses compare to real VR arcades.

Categories VR Guides

VR Escape Rooms Explained: How They Work

August 6, 2026 by Blake Pierce Howse

VR escape rooms explained by a dad who has played them at real venues. How they work, gear, top games, timing, and how they beat a normal escape room.

Categories VR Guides

VR Headset for Beginners Guide (2026)

August 4, 2026 by Blake Pierce Howse

A dad’s VR headset for beginners guide: the best first headset, real 2026 prices, comfort tips, and how home VR compares to a real arcade.

Categories VR Guides

Best Free Meta Quest 3 Games (2026): No-Cost Picks

August 4, 2026 by Blake Pierce Howse

The best free Meta Quest 3 games in 2026, from Gorilla Tag to Population One. Real no-cost picks, player counts, and how they compare to the VR arcade.

Categories VR Guides
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