At CES in 2022, Sony surprised show attendees by detailing a second-generation virtual reality system it was developing. By then, the Playstation 5 had been out for two years, so people were curious if it would ever offer a follow-up to the first PSVR from 2016. As more information was revealed, it became clear Sony was not messing around this time. The hardware and specs for the PSVR2 revealed were definitely next-generation and included OED displays, HDR, and 120Hz gaming. Now it’s finally in gamers’ hands, and reviews confirm what we expected; it’s really, really good. The only trouble is there are not enough exclusive titles.
The PSVr2 is a $549 tethered VR system for the Playstation 5. Unlike the wireless Meta Quest 2, it plugs into the front of the console with a single USB-C cable. That cable is almost 15 feet long, so you have plenty of room to move around despite being tethered. The cable is permanently attached to the left/rear part of the headset, so it drapes down behind your left shoulder. It offers dual 2K OLED displays that run at 90Hz or 120Hz.
One of its biggest new features is internal cameras for eye-tracking. This allows you to navigate menus just by looking around. It also has built-in 3D audio via the included earbuds or with your headphones. The redesigned controllers are called PS2VR Sense, and they are easy to use and comfortable to hold. The headset is lighter than its predecessor but not the lightest available. Overall, it’s light enough to feel comfortable, even if you wear glasses.
The redesigned controllers are comfortable and easy to use, according to reports. (Image: PCMag)
Our colleagues over at PCMag took the PSVR2 for a spin and were very impressed by it. They found it delivered everything a next-gen VR experience should. That includes sharp graphics, accurate device tracking, superb audio, and comfortable hardware. Our colleagues noted the only “negative” about the kit is that it doesn’t support any of the original PSVR games. This is a big sore spot, as the PS5 can play Ps4 games. And the PSVR was made for PS4, so it’s a questionable move on Sony’s part. Sony says the hardware changed so much that backward compatibility was impossible, but it’s still disappointing.
Speaking of the original PSVR, since none of the previous games work, it leaves you with a semi-small catalog of games at launch for PSVR2. The centerpiece title is Horizon: Call of the Mountain. It’s also adding VR functionality to Gran Turismo 7, Resident Evil Village, and No Man’s Sky. Overall there are a decent amount of games to play right now, with more in the pipeline. However, it still can be a tough sell for those with a VR headset on PC, as Horizon: Call of the Mountain is the only new game to play. Almost all the other titles are software ports from previous games. You also can’t play PC games on it and likely never will.
Generally speaking, if you are into VR and have a Playstation 5, it’s a must-buy. Every review online praises it for its next-gen graphics, eye-tracking, comfort, and for reliving next-gen gaming. For example, Eurogamer calls it a “state-of-the-art experience.” Digital Foundry says it offers “next-level immersion.” Hopefully, if Sony sells enough of them, it’ll spur companies to make more first-party games for PSVR2. That remains its lone major drawback–just not enough exclusive titles. Still, if you’re into VR, it’s a must-have item.
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