Last Update on December 30, 2025
Ilysia VR is establishing itself as one of the most ambitious virtual reality MMORPGs of this new year. After several years of development and numerous major updates, the game developed by Team 21 Studio has evolved considerably. But is the promise of a persistent fantasy world in VR finally kept? In this updated full review, we analyze every aspect of the game to help you decide if Ilysia deserves your time and investment in 2026.
The VR MMORPG landscape has grown in recent years, but Ilysia maintains a special place thanks to its focus on physical immersion and social interactions. Between new features, optimization for next-gen headsets, and a growing community, let’s see what the game actually offers players.
Ilysia in 2026: Is the Promise Finally Kept?
When Ilysia was first announced, the developers promised a massive open world, deep social interactions, and a revolutionary combat system. After the major updates deployed in late 2025, we can confirm that most of these promises have now been fulfilled.
The world of Ilysia now spans several distinct regions, each offering its own ecosystem, quests, and challenges. The developers have significantly expanded the playable map, adding zones like the Northern Frozen Lands and the Luminescent Marshes. This geographical expansion is accompanied by increased content density: instanced dungeons, world events, and raid bosses.
Server stability, once problematic, has improved significantly. Random disconnections have become rare, and loading times between zones have been optimized. The infrastructure now supports hundreds of simultaneous players per instance without noticeable slowdowns, a technical feat for a VR game of this scale.
Gameplay and VR Immersion: Analysis of Current Mechanics
Ilysia’s gameplay is based on a simple but ambitious philosophy: every action must be physically executed by the player. This approach radically transforms the experience compared to traditional MMOs.
Physical Combat System
VR combat is the heart of the experience. Wielding a sword requires real arm movements. Drawing a bow requires aiming, pulling the string, and releasing at the right moment. Spells are cast by performing specific gestures with your hands. This VR combat physics provides incomparable satisfaction.
The system recognizes the direction, speed, and angle of your attacks. A downward strike won’t have the same effect as a side swing. This mechanical depth rewards practice and skill, turning every encounter into a true physical duel. If you enjoy this type of combat, Blade and Sorcery also offers an excellent VR combat simulation.
Exploration and Locomotion
Ilysia offers several movement options to suit all player profiles. Free locomotion via the joystick is suitable for experienced players, while teleportation remains available for those prone to VR motion sickness. Room scale mode also allows you to use your physical space to move within the game.
Accessibility options have been expanded: customizable vignetting, adjustable character height, and the ability to play entirely seated. These additions make the game accessible to a wider audience, including people with reduced mobility.
Classes and Progression System (2026 Update)
Ilysia’s class system offers six playable archetypes, each with its own specializations and unique playstyle:
- Warrior: Close combat expert, master of heavy weapons and shields
- Archer: Ranged damage specialist with mastery of bows and traps
- Mage: Elemental control and devastating area-of-effect spells
- Priest: Healing, protection, and resurrection of allies
- Assassin: Critical damage, invisibility, and increased mobility
- Summoner: Allied creatures and support magic
Progression occurs through a classic leveling system (current cap: 50) combined with talent trees for deep character customization. Gear comes in several rarities, from common to legendary, with raid-specific sets offering unique bonuses.
Developers introduced the advanced specializations system in late 2025, unlockable at level 30. Each class can evolve into two distinct branches, effectively doubling the number of available playstyles.
Graphics and Performance on Quest 3 and PCVR
The technical aspect of a VR MMORPG is crucial for maintaining immersion over long sessions. Ilysia has made significant progress in this area.
Quest 3 and Quest 3S Version
On Meta Quest 3, Ilysia runs natively without needing a PC. Graphics have been optimized for mobile hardware while maintaining a consistent art direction. The resolution takes full advantage of the pancake lenses, offering a sharp and readable image. The framerate generally stays at a stable 72 FPS, with some drops in highly populated areas.
The Quest 3S also runs the game correctly, although some visual effects are reduced compared to the standard Quest 3. The experience remains perfectly playable and enjoyable.
PCVR Version
The PCVR version unleashes the game’s full graphical potential. High-resolution textures, volumetric lighting effects, dynamic shadows, and extended draw distance visually transform the experience. To fully enjoy this version, a high-performance gaming PC is required.
Recommended PCVR configuration:
- GPU: RTX 3070 / RX 6800 or higher
- CPU: Ryzen 5 5600X / Intel i5-12600K
- RAM: 16 GB DDR4
- Storage: 50 GB SSD
To connect your Quest 3 to PCVR, check our guide on how to connect SteamVR to Quest 3.
Ilysia vs Zenith: Which VR MMORPG to Choose in 2026?
The comparison between Ilysia and Zenith: The Last City frequently comes up in the VR community. Here is an objective analysis of both titles in 2026:
| Criterion | Ilysia VR | Zenith |
|---|---|---|
| Graphic style | Realistic Fantasy | Anime/Cel-shading |
| World size | Very vast | Medium |
| Combat | Realistic physics | Fluid arcade |
| Number of classes | 6 (+12 specializations) | 4 |
| English community | Growing | Established |
| Price | One-time purchase | One-time purchase |
Our recommendation: Ilysia is better suited for players seeking a deep RPG experience with demanding combat. Zenith is for those preferring a more accessible and casual approach. Both games are worth trying for complementary VR MMORPG experiences.
Community and Social Interactions
A MMORPG lives through its community, and Ilysia’s is particularly active and welcoming. Social interactions are a fundamental pillar of the experience.
Guild System
Ilysia’s guilds have customizable headquarters where members can gather, plan raids, and socialize. The guild progression system unlocks collective bonuses and exclusive events. The community features many active guilds, making it easy for new players to integrate.
VR Communication
Spatial voice communication remains at the heart of interactions. You hear nearby players just like in real life, creating unique social immersion. The system also captures gestures and expressions, making exchanges feel natural. To explore the social aspects of VR further, VRChat also offers excellent interaction possibilities.
Developer Roadmap and Future of the Game
Team 21 Studio has shared an ambitious roadmap for 2026:
- Q1 2026: New playable class (Necromancer) and expansion of the Cursed Lands
- Q2 2026: Personal housing system and advanced crafting
- Q3 2026: Ranked PvP arenas and seasonal tournaments
- Q4 2026: Epic 16-player raid and level cap increase
These additions demonstrate a long-term commitment from the developers. Continuous support since launch provides reassurance about the project’s longevity.
Our Final Verdict on Ilysia VR in 2026
After dozens of hours spent in the world of Ilysia, our verdict is clear: the game well deserves the attention of MMORPG and virtual reality fans.
Strengths:
- Exceptional VR immersion thanks to physical combat
- Vast and varied world with substantial content
- Active and welcoming community
- Solid optimization on Quest 3
- Active development with a clear roadmap
Weaknesses:
- Steep learning curve for VR beginners
- Quest graphics less impressive than the PCVR version
- Some repetitive quests in the mid-game
Final Score: 8/10 – Ilysia VR represents one of the best examples of what a VR MMORPG can offer. Despite some imperfections, the overall experience fully justifies the investment for any player equipped with a compatible VR headset.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about Ilysia VR
Is Ilysia available on Quest 3?
Yes, Ilysia VR is available natively on Meta Quest 3 and Quest 3S via the Meta Store. The game runs without needing a PC, with graphics optimized for mobile hardware.
Is a subscription required to play Ilysia in 2026?
No, Ilysia operates on a one-time purchase model. Once the game is purchased, you have access to all content without a monthly subscription. Optional cosmetics are available for purchase.
Can you play Ilysia seated?
Absolutely. The game offers full accessibility options allowing you to play entirely seated. Character height adjusts automatically, and all movements can be performed from a seated position.
How long does it take to reach the maximum level?
By playing regularly, expect about 80 to 100 hours to reach level 50. This time varies depending on your playstyle and participation in group activities.
