Steam Frame-ready VR rhythm game Beat Saber is adding hand-tracking and a punchy new mode in its "biggest update ever"

Beat Saber’s upcoming “biggest update ever,” scheduled for Spring 2027, introduces a new mode called Flux that replaces sabers with bare hands, requiring players to punch, prod, and slap notes in time with the beat. The mode emphasizes physical engagement, rewarding players with “Jolt energy” for precise strikes, though it remains playable with controllers. Hand-tracking support will also arrive with the update, enabling Flux and optionally enhancing traditional saber modes. The update arrives as interest in VR hardware rises, though Beat Saber’s enduring popularity since its 2019 release suggests the timing is coincidental rather than strategic.

Flux will launch with 35 supported songs, blending licensed tracks from existing Original Soundtracks, Extras, and Anniversary packs with new original compositions by in-house songwriters Jaroslav Beck and Zakka G. The campaign is being refreshed with new missions, additional checkpoints, and a light narrative element, offering fresh opportunities to earn cosmetic rewards. Players can also unlock new visual customizations for sabers, beats, and bombs through a new progression system tied to performance. The update expands both gameplay variety and player customization without altering the core rhythm mechanics.

Hand-tracking functionality will be fully integrated into Beat Saber’s existing modes, allowing players to use their hands for note interaction in place of controllers if desired. The feature is designed to enhance immersion and accessibility, though it remains optional and does not replace controller support. Flux serves as the primary showcase for this capability, demonstrating how hand-tracking can enable new playstyles within the rhythm game framework. The update reflects a broader trend in VR toward more natural input methods, aligning with the capabilities of newer hardware like the Steam Frame.

The update’s timing coincides with renewed interest in VR hardware, including Valve’s Steam Frame, though Beat Saber’s sustained popularity since its 2019 launch suggests the update stands on its own merits. The game continues to receive regular song additions and maintains a robust modding community, reinforcing its position as a staple of VR gaming. While the update does not introduce monetization changes, the expanded progression system and cosmetic unlocks provide additional incentives for both new and returning players. Performance on standalone VR platforms like the Steam Frame is also expected to benefit from the optimizations included in this release.