Kluge Interactive Added Hand Tracking to Synth Riders

The update brings controller-free gameplay and enhanced visuals to the Meta Quest 3 and 3S.

Updated on Oct. 8, 2026 in Quantum Computing

Graphic illustration of abstract ribbons of cyan and magenta light pulsing against a dark background, representing digital rhythm game energy. — Kluge Interactive has introduced full hand-tracking support and high-fidelity 'Neon Bloom' visual effects for Synth Riders on Meta Quest 3 hardware. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Would you prefer playing rhythm games using hand tracking instead of handheld controllers?

Kluge Interactive has released an update for Synth Riders, enabling full hand tracking support on the Meta Quest 3 and 3S hardware. The update also brings the previously exclusive Neon Bloom visual effects to the Quest 3 platform.

Why it matters

This update expands accessibility options for the title while positioning the experience for upcoming hardware standards. Developers are increasingly refining hand tracking capabilities in anticipation of future extended reality device releases.

All 200 songs in the game library are now accessible via hand tracking on compatible hardware. Players can also adjust the intensity of the Neon Bloom glow effects on note targets and UI elements within the game settings.

The players

Kluge Interactive

This software developer creates virtual reality rhythm games including the popular title Synth Riders.

The details

The addition of Neon Bloom visuals brings the Quest 3 version of the game in line with existing PC VR and PS VR2 capabilities. While the Quest 3 and 3S now support these features, the Quest 2 and Quest Pro remain restricted to controller-only input.

October 8, 2026: Hand tracking support was added for Quest 3 and 3S.
Spring 2027: Meta VR Glasses are expected to launch.

The Tech Race

This development follows the pattern set by the Meta Quest 3 hand tracking architecture, expanding the range of software compatible with touch-free interface controls. It highlights the transition toward more immersive, controller-free hardware interactions across the XR sector.

Players can now navigate the entire library of 200 songs using only their hands, removing the requirement to hold physical controllers during gameplay. Users can also manually adjust the glow effects on UI panels to customize their visual experience on the Quest 3.

The takeaway

The integration of hand tracking across the full song catalog makes the game more accessible to a wider variety of users. Players should check their game settings to fine-tune the new visual effects for the most comfortable experience.