The game of Stray contains a lot of mysteries that the player uncovers during gameplay. However, one strange occurrence that the developers didn't intend to cause was why Stray sometimes booted up VR applications alongside it, even though it's not a VR game.

So, why does Stray sometimes launch a VR application with it, and how do you stop it?

Why Is Stray Launching VR Applications?

screenshot of stray and oculus open at the same time

Fortunately, this "mystery" has a pretty simple explanation.

Stray has OpenXR information within its engine folder. While unintended for use in the release build, the inclusion of this folder means that Stray may accidentally trigger either Oculus's software or SteamVR to launch, depending on which one you have installed.

One of Stray's first hotfixes after it was released partially addressed this issue, though users still report the game occasionally opening up VR applications. Thankfully, there is a permanent fix.

How to Fix Stray Launching VR Applications

screenshot of stray's install folder

First, navigate to Stray's installation folder. This can be quickly done by right-clicking Stray on Steam, going into Manage, and hitting Browse Local Files. From there, navigate through Engine, then Binaries, and finally click into the ThirdParty folder.

If you see folders similar to the above image, you're in the right place.

From here, all you have to do is delete the OpenXR folder. You can also move it to a different location if you'd like to back it up. Don't worry about this affecting your game. Stray will launch just fine without this folder!

If you've deleted the folder and wish to get it back for whatever reason, verifying the cache will have Steam download it again. You can read more on how to do that in our Steam troubleshooting guide.

Why Does Stray Have an OpenXR Folder to Begin With?

It's hard to tell. Stray does not officially support any VR headset, so there's no reason for it to have any VR-related services in its game files.

It could be that Stray is a title planned to eventually work with Sony's revamped VR system. Or, it could be a feature left on the cutting room floor. Whatever the reason, it's safe to say the OpenXR folder probably shouldn't be there at the moment.

An Odd Error in Stray, Easily Fixed

It's surprising to see a non-VR game launch VR applications, but thankfully this issue is easily fixed.

It's a good thing too, as Stray can be a tough game to run at times, and VR applications will only add to the performance overhead.