It looks like the much-awaited PC compatibility for the PlayStation VR 2 headset might arrive this year, but you might need to shell out a bit more for a special gadget to make it work. According to a document from South Korea’s government, a PSVR2 “adapter” is in the works. This likely means we’ll need some sort of connector to link our PCs to the Sony VR headset for indulging in our favorite PC VR experiences.
When it first launched, the PSVR2 was impressive in both feel and performance. However, its hefty $550 price, being exclusive to the PlayStation 5, and not being able to play PSVR1 games made it a peculiar choice, appealing mainly to the most passionate PS5 enthusiasts. Back in February, Sony teased that PC gamers might soon gain access to more games. Now, with a new certification from South Korea’s National Radio Research Agency, we know how Sony plans to bridge the PC-PSVR2 gap. Brad Lynch, a knowledgeable VR enthusiast, was quick to highlight that Sony has developed a “PlayStation VR 2 PC adapter.” This was officially recorded on May 27.
So far, that’s the extent of confirmed information. Given the term “adapter,” one might assume it’s a USB dongle that plugs directly into your PC. However, how and where Sony plans to market this adapter remains a mystery. It’s unclear too if the PSVR2 will be fully PC-compatible, allowing direct access to platforms like Steam VR, or if users will merely be able to stream PC games to the headset—a method similar to how Meta Quest headsets operate with Game Pass or Steam VR titles.
Considering how Sony typically operates, it’s possible they’ll lean towards the streaming model. Recently, PlayStation has been more willing to make its first-party games available on Windows, as seen with the well-received Ghost of Tsushima port. Yet, they’ve also maintained a preference for users needing a PlayStation Network account for cross-platform games like Helldivers 2. It’s unlikely they’d allow the headset to be used without maintaining some level of control.
Released in early 2023, the PSVR2 had an initial price tag of $550. Nowadays, it’s possible to snag one for nearly $100 less. Despite its impressive twin OLED screens and robust eye tracking, Sony has reportedly curtailed production due to slowed demand. This is particularly challenging as it contends with the $500 Meta Quest 3, which boasts superior AR passthrough capabilities.
Should Sony ease its tight hold on its VR system even slightly, it might just spark a mini-revival for VR gaming in 2024. Meta has already unveiled plans for Horizon OS, their operating system designed for developing Quest-like VR devices by other creators. Lenovo and Asus have already stepped up with new VR headsets featuring Horizon OS. Depending on their success, we might see even more companies joining the fray. PlayStation is also boosting its PlayStation Plus Premium service by adding several VR titles. However, with the current library of games still somewhat limited, enabling access to a wider array of titles could be the key to reviving VR’s appeal, even if it means losing some exclusivity.
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