SynthVR is a virtual reality simulation video game wherein you can use a virtual synthesizer to make some cool-sounding noise. Developed by 42tones, this VR game is a modular synthesizer environment that lets you set up your own music workstation and control your compositions. This version of the game is in public alpha and is free. However, it has limited functionality compared to the paid version.

A cool way to play with synths

Modular synthesizers are synthesizers composed of separate modules of different functions. The modules can be connected with patch cords, a matrix patching system, or switches by the user to create a patch. With these instruments, you can create electronic music, and this kind of sophisticated equipment is a staple in certain music genres. They take up a lot of space, however, so it can be hard to make the ultimate music workstation.

With SynthVR, though, this isn’t a problem. You can place as many modules as you’d like on the provided case rack, and you can customize where they’ll go. These modules are all compact, and it’s easy to attach their cables and swap them around. If you move a module with cables attached, these will disappear, and you have to reconnect them again, though. You can pretty much immediately start generating noise. 

There are also other features available, such as easy knob-turning, audio CPU overload warnings, the ability to change connection modifier orbs to rack modules, and choosing the rack size you want. Unfortunately, as intuitive as the VR control is in this game, it’s not recommended for those who are beginners at synths. There are no tutorials available, so this isn’t great as a learning tool.

Not really for newbies

All in all, SynthVR is a cool concept and delivers it in such an atmospheric way, with its sunset-like synthwave of a sky. The models of your equipment are sleek and easy to use, as well. However, with the lack of a tutorial, beginners at music technology will be totally lost at the controls. Nevertheless, this is highly recommended for synth users who have Oculus Rift, Oculus Quest, Valve Index, and HTC Vive.