PlayStation 5 VR headset finally shows but at a price
The original PlayStation VR, PS VR, was a groundbreaking peripheral that really demonstrated that consumer gaming VR was not only possible, but practical and more than just a gimmick.
Ever since the PlayStation 5 launched in 2020, enthusiasts have been calling for its compatible VR unit – and it’s now arrived, in the form of the PS VR2, representing a significant advance over its predecessor.
It comprises three components: A VR headset and two wireless controllers. The headset, which has an adjustable headband, features two OLED eyepiece displays with a 2000x2400 resolution at between 90hz-120hz, as well as two wired earbuds, while the controllers feature a trigger, side button, joystick and two input buttons each.
One of the standout achievements here is getting the entire system to run through a single long USB-C cable connecting from the headset to the USB-C port on the front of the PS5. It’s such a simple set up and ideal for people who have felt a bit daunted by the fairly complex setups of some other VR systems in the past.
Anything this good isn’t going to be cheap, but you still might want to take a seat – the RRP is $879, or $959 for a bundle with the game Horizon: Call Of The Mountain.
Besides the price tag, the biggest challenge facing the PS VR2 is the current lack of content.
There aren’t a huge number of PS VR2 games on the market right now – Horizon Call Of The Mountain is easily the showcase for the device, while Gran Turismo 7’s virtual reality driving has to be experienced to be believed.
What is baffling is why the PS VR2 is not backwardscompatible with most PS VR games.
Apparently Sony is working on this and more of the PS VR library will become available in due course.
From a consumer perspective, the PlayStation PS VR2 represents one of the most accessible ways to get into VR gaming. It’s certainly not cheap, but if you have a PlayStation 5, it’s certainly worth keeping an eye on – and saving up some cash – while waiting for some more games to be released.