What kind of game is MasterRunners?

MasterRunners is a free-to-play, hand-based movement VR multiplayer game with various action, casual, and indie game modes.

When was MasterRunners released on Steam?

MasterRunners was released on Steam on February 7, 2026.

What is 'Energy' in MasterRunners?

Energy is the free in-game currency used to purchase new cosmetics at Gregson's Shop.

What is the Master OS?

The Master OS is a new integrated system in MasterRunners V3 that allows players to manage their name, colors, and select their region.

Is MasterRunners available on Meta Quest?

Yes, MasterRunners is available on Meta Quest and has achieved over 270,000 installs on the Meta Horizon Store.

What is the Master Robbery game mode about?

Master Robbery is the most popular game mode in MasterRunners, featuring 6 levels where players must successfully rob various establishments without getting caught.

Main Content

Introduction to MasterRunners

MasterRunners is a free-to-play virtual reality (VR) multiplayer game that emphasizes hand-based movement, offering a unique experience in the VR gaming space. Developed by EMVRGames and published by EthanMonke, the game was released on Steam on February 7, 2026, and has garnered over 270,000 installs on Meta Horizon Store since its earlier availability. It features a variety of entertaining game modes, obstacles, and cosmetic customization options, designed for both fast-paced action and social interaction with friends worldwide.

Core Gameplay: Hand-Based Movement

The fundamental mechanic of MasterRunners revolves around hand-based movement, which is central to navigating the game's environments and overcoming obstacles. While specific generalized tips for optimizing hand-based movement (like climbing or speed techniques) are not extensively detailed in available search results, mastering precise movements is key to outmaneuvering opponents and achieving objectives. Techniques such as wall jumping are crucial in specific challenges, like the Alan boss fight. The game also incorporates haptic feedback to enhance the physical sensation of traversal and combat.

Game Modes and Specific Strategies

MasterRunners boasts over 10 game modes, ensuring variety and engaging experiences.

Master Robbery

Master Robbery is highlighted as the most popular and expanded game mode within MasterRunners. It features a total of six levels, each with multiple parts, where the objective is to successfully rob various locations such as a company, house, bar, or king, all while avoiding detection.

Analog Protocol (Horror Mode)

Inspired by Alex Kister's "Mandela Catalogue," Analog Protocol is a MasterRunners exclusive horror mode. Players must find VHS Tapes scattered across a large map, face obstacles, and uncover the lore behind the 'Alternate'.

Brawlers VS Runners

This game mode offers a unique take on tag. Brawlers are tasked with catching Runners before the Runners can reach opposite sides of the map, all while navigating and avoiding multiple obstacles. The last Runner standing wins the round.

MR Roulette

MR Roulette is a game mode based on the concept of Russian Roulette. In this mode, a gun is passed among players, containing either a real bullet or a blank. Players must choose carefully who to eliminate, as a blank shot could cost them victory.

Defeating Alan (Corruption Event V2/V3)

Alan is a boss featured in a corruption event, and beating him requires specific movements and understanding his attack patterns. Here are some strategies:

Initial Phase: Alan's attacks involve intense movements, swipes, and slams. To avoid these, recommended sweet spots include the far right corner of the arena.

Avoiding Black Holes and Swipes: When black holes appear, move to the opposite side (e.g., if on the left, go right). Stay all the way back to avoid swipes through the wall.

Arrow Attacks: For arrow attacks, staying in a specific spot, often a far corner, can make you immune. Alternatively, being near the middle of the 'wall of me' can protect you from crushing attacks, specifically near the palms rather than the fingers due to smaller hitboxes.

Rising Blocks: When blocks rise from above, get on top of the mirror to avoid the floor, which can kill you. Then, move to the far right side and then the far left side as blocks fall.

Wall Jumping: As the fight progresses and the difficulty increases, wall jumping back and forth is necessary to avoid certain attacks, especially when black holes and arrows come from the same side. Timing is crucial for successful wall jumps.

Final Stages: As Alan gets more aggressive, you'll need to jump over slow-moving obstacles. It's suggested to start walking around as soon as possible if jumping becomes too difficult. Pay attention to the black hole's position and utilize wall jumps to avoid it.

Beating Button Zones

Button Zones require players to locate and activate buttons within different environments:

Workplace Levels: In the workplace area, the button is often found behind a box in the top right corner. In subsequent, larger rooms, the button can be in a similar top-right spot underneath a pallet. For levels with stairs, ignore them and look behind a trash can for the button.

City Area: This area can be confusing. After pulling a lever behind a desk to open a secret vent, navigate the vent (left, then right, then left, then right are suggested turns, though exact paths can be tricky) to find the button. Another button in the city is in front of the elevator, behind a green building, requiring you to jump a fence and climb up a bit to find it on a window. After pressing a button, follow your footsteps back to the elevator as buildings may start crashing down.

Escape Room Tutorial

For the escape room, a known code is 5923 to grab power. A pathway to find a crowbar involves going straight, then right, then straight, then left, then right.

Customization and Progression

MasterRunners offers various customization options to personalize your character:

Cosmetics: Players can shop for new cosmetics at Gregson's Shop using the free in-game currency called "Energy".

Inventory System: MasterRunners V3 introduced a comprehensive inventory system in the start area, allowing players to view and manage their collected cosmetics. These appear as icons on a wall, acting almost like an achievement display; empty spots indicate missing cosmetics.

Skins and Faces: The game includes new custom skins, often described as "galactic." Faces are completely free and available to the public, allowing players to choose any face they prefer.

Master OS

The Master OS is a new, integrated system introduced in MasterRunners V3, located in the start area. It combines functionalities previously handled by separate computers for names and codes. With the Master OS, players can manage their name, select colors, and choose their region. Arrow keys are used to navigate through these options. The US East region is often considered the most popular server.

Comprehensive Guide to MasterRunners: Tips and Tricks for VR Gameplay

Quick Summary