For a while, Sony has been teasing players with information about its next VR gaming device. Unexpectedly, during Sony's CES 2022 presentation, it revealed some of the PSVR2's impressive specs which include 4K HDR, and a crisp OLED display that will bring a high-fidelity visual experience to gamers. The PSVR2 also features eye-tracking, 3D audio, and headset feedback that mimics in-game sensations using a built-in motor with vibrations. This will allow players to realistically experience things like a character's elevated pulse or the rush of objects passing nearby.
Recently, Sony let players get their first glimpse of the PSVR2 headset. The device seems to fit right in with the PS5's design philosophy, and it has the same orb shape as the controllers. It has enough familiar features to make it look like the original PSVR's big brother but brings enough newness to kill any doubt that it is a next-generation device. As Sony has explained, a lot of thought went into the PSVR2's design to make it a gadget that sits comfortably beside the PS5 and does not look like an eyesore in any living room.
The PSVR2 Headset Keeps Things Round
Gamers have been lucky enough to already get a glimpse of the ergonomic controller that will ship with the PSVR2. Like the DualSense, the PSVR2's controller is designed to provide a sensory experience for gamers. The controller has haptic feedback, finger touch detection, and adaptive triggers that offer variable tension. It lacks a directional pad, but it will not be necessary when VR games chiefly rely on motion control anyway. For players who had a troublesome time dealing with the PSVR and its use of both the PlayStation Move controllers and the DualShock 4, the PSVR2's improvements are very welcome.
Interestingly, the controller features an orb shape. According to Sony, this will let players hold the controller naturally when playing VR games, while giving their arms all the freedom they need. Much like the controller, the headset also features an orb design. Sony claims that this choice was made to represent the 360-degree view that players experience when playing VR. The orb design is also quite useful for a device that will be handled frequently by gamers when they put it on and pack it away. Having fewer sharp edges means less chance of experiencing any discomfort when handling the headset.
The PSVR2 Is the PS5's Perfect Companion
The PS5 is easily PlayStation's most striking console design. The colossal console features sleek curves, and it seems to demand attention when placed in any living room. Fortunately, it is an elegant machine that is pleasant to look at, and players can customize their consoles, as the faceplates are easily removable. When Sony was designing the PS5, it already had the PSVR2 in mind. Hence, both devices follow a similar design philosophy.
Like the PS5, the PSVR2 features a minimalist black and white motif that looks sleek and futuristic. Additionally, the surface of the PSVR2 headset is patterned with PlayStation symbols, a design choice also used with the PS5, the DualSense controller, and the PS5's various accessories. Side by side, the PS5 and the PSVR2 look like a complementary pair, indicating that Sony has chosen a single, striking visual design philosophy for this generation of gaming.
Although the PSVR2 and the PS5 are similar in many ways, there are key differences. Most notably, the PS5 has flat surfaces, while the PSVR2 opts for a more rounded design, as players are meant to come into contact with it more often. Despite the differences, the two gaming gadgets still look like they were made for each other, and the PSVR2 will be right at home beside the PS5. Most importantly for some gamers, the PSVR2 will not look garish when placed in one's living room. It is elegant yet conspicuous, and thanks to the fact that it features just a single cord, it does not bring with it an unsightly tangle of wires.
The PSVR2 Will Be Comfortable to Wear
Ergonomics is an important part of any VR headset design. If a headset feels uncomfortable to wear, immersion will be ruined and players will not be able to play for long. For this reason, Sony has gone to great lengths to ensure that the PSVR2's headset design is as ergonomic as possible, including conducting extensive testing and using feedback from the original PSVR.
The PSVR2 will have an adjustable headband, allowing players of all sizes to make sure the headset fits comfortably. It will also have an adjustable scope which lets players place the scope closer or further away from their face. Another useful feature that has been added is a lens adjustment dial which will ensure players can optimize their view. Players who had issues with the PS VR's lens fogging will be happy to know that the PSVR features a new vent design that aims to prevent this.
Understandably, anticipation is high for Sony's next VR headset. Already, there have been interesting titles announced that promise to bring authentic triple-A gaming experiences to the VR gaming space. This includes Horizon Call of the Wild which is being developed by Firesprite and Guerrilla Games. Although the game will not star Aloy, it will take place in her machine-inhabited, post-apocalyptic world.
The PS VR2 is good news for the blooming VR gaming industry. With its beefy specs, the PS VR2 will allow for higher quality VR games to be developed, enticing more gamers to explore the world of VR gaming. Though VR gaming is still very niche, the PS VR2 will surely help accelerate its growing mainstream appeal.
PSVR2 is in development.