We’ve been waiting six years for a new VR set, so I suppose we can wait a little longer.
PlayStation confirmed last night on Instagram that the PlayStation VR2 will be available in early 2023. It’s been six years since the original PlayStation VR was released in 2016. That VR set was only compatible with PS4 and PS5 consoles and required an adapter, whereas the VR2 is only compatible with PlayStation 5 consoles and uses a single USB cable.
The VR2 was announced in January, and we got our first look at it a month later in February. This first look showed users a headset that resembled the previous model but also included some new features, such as a lens adjustment dial and a new vent design, which should improve airflow and keep the headset cool. In addition, the headset is slimmer than the previous model.
In a July blog post, PlayStation Senior Vice President Hideaki Nishino stated, “Our goal is to create a headset that will not only become an attractive part of your living room decor, but will also keep you immersed in your game world, to the point where you almost forget you are using a headset or controller.”
In July, we also got a look at the VR2’s user experience. This update introduced a see-through feature that makes use of the headset’s cameras. You can also create a ‘customised play area,’ which means the VR2 will scan your space and draw play area boundaries to keep you from tripping over your couch (via a notification). The update also mentioned a broadcast feature for streamers, so you can film yourself while playing games.
The VR2 promises OLED screens, a 2000 x 2040 resolution per eye, and 90/120Hz refresh rate options in an effort to make you ‘forget you’re using a headset or controller,’ as VP Nishimo put it.
According to PlayStation’s website, there are currently twenty PS VR2 games in development. Horizon Call of the Mountain is a PS VR2 exclusive, as are ports of Resident Evil Village, The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners – Chapter 2: Retribution, and No Man’s Sky. The VR2’s price has yet to be determined.
