Sideloading Games on a Quest 2
This book is a simple write-up from my notes as like a direct no frills introduction on adding games to your Quest 2 headset that aren’t from the official store.
Compiled for personal reference and Windows users, this guide is an uncomplicated (as can be) starting point for my website, where I'm experimenting with hidden chapters and pages in books.
Preliminary Shit
There's a checklist of things you'll need or need done before you can try adding games to your headset.
Devices Needed
You'll need:
- A Windows computer
- A Meta Quest 1, 2, 3, or Pro headset
- An Android or Apple phone
If it's your first time doing any of this then I suggest following steps in order in the next pages.
You'll need a Meta account to use between all devices
If you don't have a meta account, the directions, the next page(s) will link you
Prepare Sideloading Capability
Preparation Installs
- You must already have your headset on and logged in and that process should end up with you have the following things
- a Meta account
- the Meta Horizon app on your phone - Install the Quest Drivers on your computer, then restart your computer
- Create an Organization,
- It may ask you to verify your account with either a phone number, 2-Factor Authentication, or a credit card.
- Choose a form of verifying, verify yourself, then create a unique name for your organization
(it doesnt matter what Org Name you make up) - Get on the phone app again and now you'll be able to turn on the Developer Mode setting
The headset should be on the same wifi that your phone is on
If you are a visual person or would prefer to see screenshots, these steps have been covered in several articles and videos on the internet and so I'll link you to some good ones
- aixr.org
- "SWIFTNESS" on Youtube
Sideloading from SideQuest
SideQuest lets you load up games that aren't in the official Meta store. It’s a third-party VR platform for Meta headsets and kind of a simpler way to get your games out there, since you don’t have to pitch your idea like you do with the official store. I’m not totally up on all the details, but it’s pretty clear SideQuest has built a solid community with what they’re doing.
Installation and Game Downloads
Download It
SideQuest has updated their installation methods since I last checked. I'll focus on what they call the "advanced installer," which involves downloading and installing their application on your computer.
First, head over to their website and grab the Windows installer:
https://sidequestvr.com/setup-howto
At the time of writing, the latest version is v0.10.42.
The installation steps are straightforward and likely won't change much in the future.
Install It
Once you've downloaded the file, double-click it to start the setup. Just click "Next" through the installation process until it's completed. I recommend opening the app and then closing it once it's fully launched, just to ensure everything's set up properly.
Next, connect your headset to your PC using a compatible USB-C cable.
Get Some Games
When you launch SideQuest, you’ll find yourself in a market of games, similar to any app store, with both free and paid options available.
In the screenshot below you can see how I installed Duck Hunt without even logging into the service. I simply clicked on the download options and chose to sideload immediately. The interface is pretty intuitive, so I consider this part done for now.
For those who prefer a visual guide,
I recommend watching Cas and Chary XR’s tutorial for a detailed walkthrough