Sony is developing the highly anticipated PlayStation VR2, its next-generation virtual reality system for the PS5. Officially announced at CES 2022, PlayStation VR2 aims to elevate gaming by delivering a heightened sense of presence and deeper immersion into virtual game worlds.
One of the first titles developed for the new system is Horizon Call of the Mountain, from Guerrilla and Firesprite.
Let’s explore the key features of the PlayStation VR2.
PlayStation VR2 Features
Here’s a breakdown of the key features of Sony’s PlayStation VR2:
- Visual Fidelity: The PlayStation VR2 (PS VR2) delivers stunning 4K HDR visuals and a wide 110-degree field of view. Combined with an OLED display, PS VR2 offers a high resolution of 2000×2040 per eye and smooth 90/120Hz frame rates.
- Eye Tracking: This innovative feature enables incredibly realistic interactions. The headset tracks the player’s eye movements, enhancing emotional responses during online interactions with other gamers. Beyond added realism, eye tracking also serves a functional purpose, allowing players to use their gaze as an additional input for game characters.
- Headset Feedback: The PS VR2 utilizes integrated cameras embedded in the headset for precise player and controller tracking. Sony calls this “inside-out tracking,” which eliminates the need for an external camera and allows for greater freedom of movement. The headset also generates subtle, responsive vibrations, immersing the player in the game world. This feature allows players to experience sensations like a character’s pulse or the speed of passing objects.
- Tempest 3D AudioTech: This audio technology creates a lifelike and immersive soundscape. In-game audio dynamically adapts to the player’s head position and movements, enhancing spatial awareness. Players can pinpoint the direction of approaching threats, hear the subtle nuances of a character’s voice, and locate other players by the sound of their actions.
- PS VR2 Sense Controllers: The PlayStation VR2 comes with a pair of new, ergonomically designed VR Sense controllers, similar in concept to those offered by Oculus and Valve. Each controller features adaptive triggers, allowing for varied sensitivity based on in-game actions. This haptic feedback provides players with a more tactile and nuanced feel for the game world and its sound effects. Importantly, the controllers are tracked by the PlayStation VR2 headset itself, rather than an external camera, resulting in improved control and reduced latency.
PlayStation VR2 Release Date
Sony has not yet announced an official release date for the PlayStation VR2. While some speculate that the headsets are currently in production and may be available in mid-summer, some gaming market analysts anticipate a later release.
PlayStation VR2 Price
Sony has not officially confirmed the price of the PlayStation VR2. However, many expect the system to be priced higher than the original PlayStation VR, reflecting its advanced features and technology.
In Conclusion
The new PlayStation VR2 headset represents a significant development for Sony, demonstrating its commitment to strong competition in the VR space. Sony has clearly focused on enhancing the VR experience, and the PS VR2 is shaping up to be a compelling addition to the PS5. If you’re considering purchasing a PlayStation, now might be an excellent time to do so! Better yet, you could sell your used game console to help fund the purchase of the new VR2 headset.
