The PSVR 2 will be PS5-exclusive hardware, Sony has confirmed. This means that the upcoming PlayStation VR 2 headset will not be compatible with the latest generation PS4, as it is configured to use the power of Sony’s current generation console to provide a more immersive experience… with much fewer cables.
Why PSVR 2 is a PS5 exclusive
Sony confirmed during CES 2022 that the PSVR 2 is on its way, with the successor to its initial virtual reality headset set to boast a number of improvements. However, those updates will come at a price: it will not be possible to connect the new PSVR to a PS4.
Hideaki Nishino confirmed this in a blog post:
Building on our PS5 innovations, PlayStation VR2 adds a true next-generation experience with high-fidelity visuals, new sensory features and improved tracking, along with a simplified single-cable setup.
In addition, the publication only mentions that the virtual reality viewer is compatible with the PS5, and makes use of the latest variety of PlayStation console updates. This includes you being able to use the PS5’s power enough to make sure it only needs one cable to work, a big step up from the plethora of cables present with the original.
Nothing is known yet. about when the PSVR 2 will be released, nor what its price will be (although we have our theories…), but those looking to get their hands on the ”next generation” VR headsets will also need to make sure they have a PS5 first. It’s time to start fending off those scalpers.
Opinion: PSVR 2 finally introduces a current-gen console VR viewer
Paul writes… The original PSVR was a mess, but an awesome mess. It seemed like there was no way VR would work on an underpowered PS4 and, in a way, it didn’t; all the games seemed to be covered in vaseline, and there were so many wires coming out of them that it felt like you were connected to a bacta tank.
But Sony made that work so well considering the technological drawbacks. It was a real accomplishment, and considering the PS5 was presumably built with VR functionality in mind, things should be a lot smoother with the PSVR 2. Sony has a habit of dropping its peripherals and accessories almost as fast as it releases them, and while the PSVR had a better lifespan than most, it still never really competed with the heavyweights in the PC space. Hopefully, with the added technical power of the PS5, the PSVR 2 lasts much longer.
