Get VR games from external sources
SideQuest is a free video game utility software that enables you to browse and install content on your Oculus Quest VR headset via sideloading. A third-party program for virtual reality gaming, this tool is used when you’d like to try out Quest content that you can’t find in the Oculus Store, such as pre-release builds from developers and custom content. This software is compatible with Oculus Quest and Oculus Quest 2.
What is Oculus Quest SideQuest?
SideQuest is a desktop app that lets you do sideloading, a method of loading VR content from sources not explicitly approved by the appropriate official sites. While it easily sounds sketchy and you should proceed with caution when performing it, sideloading is usually beneficial in testing apps by users—especially when the specific content isn’t accepted by the Oculus Store or Facebook yet. Thus, if you’d like to get this tool, here’s how to do it.
First, download the program onto your computer. Take note that some operating systems may require additional packages installed. Then, you need to enable Developer Mode on your account on the Oculus website—which you can do on your Oculus app, too. Create an “organization” as a developer on the website. Afterward, enable Developer Mode on your app, reboot your device, and connect it to your PC.
Connect via USB cable—which is recommended to do with a Type-C port. Then, allow USB debugging on your device when prompted and check “Always allow from this computer.” It’s best to disable the unlock pattern on your mobile app, as well. A green dot should appear at the top left of the screen along with the name of your headset. Afterwhich, you should be ready to start sideloading.
Gets easier after this
All in all, there are many uses for SideQuest, and it all comes together in a nice intuitive interface. While not all operating systems follow the same installation steps precisely, these are always a one-time process. Not only is the program an alternate Oculus Store, but it also allows you to manage your VG gaming by enabling TV screencasting and streaming. This is a recommended software for anyone looking to go beyond the official store’s contents.
User reviews about SideQuest
by Emmett
I have been using Sidequest since the Day I got my Quest 2 headset! In my opinion, this is the best secondary VR App Store out there. They have many categories, hundreds of original games made by Indy developers, links to apps that are on the Oculus *AHEM* sorry, "Meta" store App Lab, and most importantly; it allows you to sideload and manage your headset's files in a simple & elegant way by providing an intuitive UI.
All you have to do to sideload a game is to:
- Run the software
- Connect your Quest to your computer
- Allow your computer to gain access from inside your headset
- Select the "Tasks Running" tab
- click and drag your desired third party APK VR title
- wait a half a minute
- And Boom! Done!
And it's not just APK files! you can transfer images, videos, Photos, etc.!
It will inform you if something went wrong, with options to provide more technical description as to why, you can install or uninstall stuff with just a few clicks and more! And installing games from the provided app store is even simpler! so long as your headset is connected and your computer is given access, all you need to do is find the game you want, pay for it if it's not a free app, and the Software will take care of the rest!
Now, Disclaimer; I downloaded the software from their website directly, and have not used the version provided on this website. So as with anything on the internet, Proceed at your own risk. Otherwise I highly recommend this software if you own a VR Headset and want more than what the Meta Store is willing to offer! More