Reality Bytes Epi#9 State of VR 2026/Arc Raiders 230 hrs in, does it have staying power?
About this episode
This is an emotionally charged episode on the state of VR gaming in 2026, recorded against the backdrop of Meta layoffs and flat-gaming studios downsizing and closing. It also marks a milestone: the goodbye to Q2C and the full embrace of the Reality Bytes name, complete with a throwback CES party video.
The gaming heart of the show is a deep dive into After the Fall, including its trailer and a look back at the 24-hour livestream the team ran for breast cancer awareness, followed by an extended breakdown of what makes a game truly special, anchored by 230-plus hours in ARC Raiders and the central question of whether it has lasting staying power.
The back half turns serious as Eric, Todd, and Skeeva each share their honest views on the Meta layoffs and the real implications for the people and studios involved, including a look at Palmer Luckey's statement on the situation. They don't paper over the hard parts, but they land on a hopeful conclusion: VR, AI, and glasses are still the future. A heartfelt, substantial episode that captures a genuinely pivotal moment for the industry.
Chapters
- 00:00:00Opening credits
- 00:01:50Eric welcomes viewers
- 00:02:21Todd introduction
- 00:02:53Skeeva introduction
- 00:04:57Goodbye to Q2C, hello Reality Bytes
- 00:11:27Throwback CES party video
- 00:22:33After the Fall deep discussion
- 00:28:20After the Fall trailer
- 00:51:23ATF 24-hour livestream for Breast Cancer Awareness
- 01:14:12What makes a special game? Ark Raiders deep dive
- 02:06:36Meta layoffs and the real implications
- 02:06:54Eric’s view
- 02:11:44Skeeva’s view
- 02:16:50Todd’s view
- 02:20:07Palmer Luckey’s statement
- 02:22:58In conclusion discussion
- 02:28:57VR, AI and Glasses is the future
- 02:36:19Next week’s show
- 02:38:47Eric says hello to chat
- 02:41:52Roll credits