PlayStation VR2: Difference between revisions

|image = [[file:playstation vr211.jpg|350px]]

|VR/AR=[[Virtual Reality]]

|Type=[[Head-mounted display]]

|Subtype=[[Console-Powered VR]]

|Platform = [[PlayStation 5]]

|Creator = [[Sony Interactive Entertainment]]

|Developer = Sony Interactive Entertainment

|Manufacturer = [[Sony]]

|Announcement Date = February 23, 2021 (Initial reveal); January 4, 2022 (Full name/details)

|Price = US$549.99 / £529.99 / €599.99 (Launch) (Current price may vary, for example $399 reported)

|Website = [https://www.playstation.com/en-us/ps-vr2/ playstation.com/ps-vr2]

|Display = [[OLED]]

|Resolution = 2000 x 2040 per eye (4K total)

|Refresh Rate = 90Hz, 120Hz

|Pixel Density =

|Precision =

|Field of View = Approx. 110 degrees

|Visible FoV = 110° diagonal

|Optics = [[Fresnel lenses]]

|IPD Range = 58-73 mm hardware adjustable (manual dial, assisted via eye tracking)

|Tracking = [[Inside-out tracking]], (6DoF)

|Eye Tracking = Yes (IR camera per eye)

|Hand Tracking = No (Controller-based finger detection only)

|Body Tracking = No

|Rotational Tracking = Yes (Six-axis motion sensing system)

|Positional Tracking = Yes (via 4 embedded cameras)

|Audio = Stereo headphone jack (Input: Built-in microphone)

|Microphone = Yes (Built-in)

|3.5mm Audio Jack = Yes

|Camera = 4 embedded tracking cameras, 2 IR eye-tracking cameras

|Ports = USB Type-C (Headset connection), 3.5mm audio jack

|Bluetooth = Yes (Version 5.1 for controllers)

|Power = Via USB-C from PS5

|Battery Capacity = Built-in lithium-ion rechargeable (Controllers)

|Weight = 560g (Headset with strap); 168g (Per Controller)

|Color = White / Black

The PS VR2 features a design aesthetic similar to the PS5 console and its accessories, primarily in black and white. <ref name="ign"/> It utilizes a halo-style headband that distributes weight across the forehead and back of the head, rather than resting heavily on the face, enhancing comfort for extended use. <ref name="ign"/><ref name="wired"/><ref name="uploadvr-review">[https://www.uploadvr.com/playstation-vr2-review/ PlayStation VR2 Review: Next-Generation VR Gaming For PS5]. ''UploadVR''. Published February 16, 2023.</ref> The headband is adjustable via a rear dial and a button release mechanism, while the visor itself can slide closer to or further from the user's eyes using a scope adjustment button. <ref name="ign"/><ref name="wired"/><ref name="pcmag"/> The headset weighs approximately 560 grams, making it slightly lighter than the original PS VR (600g) and significantly lighter than competitors like the [[Valve Index]] (809g). <ref name="verge"/><ref name="pcmag"/><ref name="vrcompare">[https://vr-compare.com/headset/playstationvr2 PlayStation VR2 Specs]. ''VR Compare''. Accessed December 16, 2024.</ref>

The face mask employs a soft, concertina-style rubber gasket designed to block external light effectively. <ref name="pcmag"/><ref name="verge"/> Many reviewers have noted its comfortable fit, even for users wearing glasses, often citing it as one of the most glasses-friendly headsets available due to the wide eyepiece and adjustable visor distance. <ref name="npr">[https://www.npr.org/2023/02/21/1158486910/playstation-vr2-horizon-call-of-the-mountain-review 'PlayStation VR2' Review: A strong foundation with a questionable future]. ''NPR''. Published February 21, 2023.</ref><ref name="cnet"/><ref name="pcmag"/> The headset connects to the PS5 via a single, non-detachable 4.5-meter (14.7-foot) USB-C cable. <ref name="ign"/><ref name="cnet"/><ref name="pcmag"/> While simplifying setup compared to the original PSVR's complex wiring and breakout box, the tethered nature can sometimes lead to the cable getting tangled or underfoot during room-scale experiences. <ref name="npr"/><ref name="cnet"/><ref name="verge"/>

===PlayStation VR2 Sense Controllers===

A major upgrade from the original PSVR's [[PlayStation Move]] wands, the PS VR2 includes two dedicated [[PlayStation VR2 Sense controller]]s. <ref name="ign"/><ref name="wired"/><ref name="pcmag"/> These controllers feature an ergonomic, orb-like design with tracking rings that wrap around the user's wrists. <ref name="ign"/><ref name="pcmag"/> Each controller includes an analog stick, two face buttons (Circle/Cross on right, Triangle/Square on left), a grip button (L1/R1), an adaptive trigger (L2/R2), Options/Create buttons, and a PS button. <ref name="psspecs"/><ref name="pcmag"/> Each controller weighs 168g. <ref name="vrcompare"/>

The Sense controllers incorporate the advanced haptic feedback and [[adaptive triggers]] found in the PS5's [[DualSense]] controller, allowing for nuanced vibrations and variable trigger resistance that enhance immersion in games like feeling the tension of a bowstring or the recoil of a weapon. <ref name="ign"/><ref name="wired"/><ref name="uploadvr-review"/> They also feature [[capacitive sensor]]s for basic finger touch detection on the analog sticks, face buttons, and triggers, allowing virtual hands to mimic simple gestures like pointing or making a fist, though it's not full finger tracking. <ref name="ign"/><ref name="wired"/><ref name="psspecs"/> Controller tracking is handled by the headset's cameras via [[IR LED]]s on the controllers' rings. <ref name="psspecs"/> Battery life is rated at approximately 4 to 6.5 hours, depending on haptic intensity, and the controllers are charged via USB-C. <ref name="ign"/><ref name="verge"/><ref name="pcmag"/><ref name="uploadvr-review"/> An optional charging dock that charges both controllers simultaneously is available separately. <ref name="verge"/><ref name="cnet"/>

==Technology & Features==

The PS VR2 utilizes dual [[OLED]] panels, providing a resolution of 2000 x 2040 pixels per eye, totaling a [[4K resolution]]. <ref name="ign"/><ref name="wired"/><ref name="psspecs"/> This is a significant increase from the original PSVR's 960 x 1080 per eye resolution. The displays support [[HDR]] for richer colors, higher contrast, and deeper blacks, and operate at selectable refresh rates of 90Hz or 120Hz for smooth motion. <ref name="ign"/><ref name="psspecs"/><ref name="pcmag"/> The headset offers an approximate [[field of view]] (FoV) of 110 degrees, wider than the original PSVR and comparable to many modern headsets. <ref name="ign"/><ref name="psspecs"/><ref name="vrcompare"/> It employs [[Fresnel lenses]], which help achieve the wide FoV while keeping weight down. While generally providing a clear image, some users have noted a relatively small "sweet spot" where the image is sharpest, requiring precise headset adjustment to avoid blurriness at the edges. <ref name="verge"/> Lens separation ([[Interpupillary distance|IPD]]) is manually adjustable via a dial on the headset (ranging from 58mm to 73mm), with the eye-tracking system providing visual feedback to assist the user in finding the optimal setting for clarity. <ref name="ign"/><ref name="cnet"/><ref name="vrcompare"/>

===Tracking System===

A key technological advancement in the PS VR2 is its integrated [[eye tracking]], implemented via [[infrared]] cameras inside the headset monitoring each eye. <ref name="ign"/><ref name="npr"/><ref name="psspecs"/> This enables [[foveated rendering]], a rendering optimization technique where the headset renders the exact area the user is looking at in full, sharp resolution, while dynamically lowering the resolution of the peripheral areas outside the user's gaze. <ref name="ign"/><ref name="verge"/><ref name="cnet"/> This significantly reduces the processing load on the PS5's GPU, allowing developers to achieve higher overall graphical fidelity and performance without a noticeable impact on the user's perceived visual quality, as the human eye only sees sharp detail in its central focus area. <ref name="ign"/><ref name="npr"/><ref name="uploadvr-review"/> Eye tracking is also utilized for gameplay mechanics and user interface interactions in some titles, such as allowing players to select menu options by looking at them or enabling unique interactions like aiming weapons or having game characters react to the player's gaze. <ref name="ign"/><ref name="wired"/><ref name="cnet"/><ref name="uploadvr-review"/>

The PS VR2 ecosystem features multiple layers of haptic feedback designed to increase immersion. <ref name="ign"/> The Sense controllers provide detailed vibrations capable of simulating various textures and impacts, and utilize adaptive triggers for realistic resistance feedback during actions like pulling a trigger or drawing a bow. <ref name="ign"/><ref name="pcmag"/><ref name="uploadvr-review"/> Uniquely, the headset itself includes a single vibration motor located in the headband, adding another layer of physical sensation by providing feedback directly to the user's head during impactful in-game moments, such as explosions, large creature footsteps, or sudden impacts. <ref name="ign"/><ref name="npr"/><ref name="cnet"/><ref name="psspecs"/>

===Audio===

Setting up the PS VR2 is significantly streamlined compared to its predecessor. <ref name="ign"/><ref name="wired"/><ref name="pcmag"/> It connects to the PlayStation 5 via a single USB-C cable plugged into the front port, eliminating the need for the breakout box and multiple [[HDMI]] cables of the original PSVR. <ref name="ign"/><ref name="verge"/><ref name="cnet"/> The PS5 automatically detects the headset upon connection and guides the user through a brief on-screen initial setup process. This includes pairing the Sense controllers (which requires connecting them via USB initially), calibrating eye tracking by following on-screen prompts, adjusting the IPD dial using visual feedback, and defining the play area by scanning the room with the passthrough cameras and customizing the automatically generated boundaries. <ref name="ign"/><ref name="verge"/><ref name="pcmag"/><ref name="uploadvr-review"/> The headset integrates seamlessly with the PS5 dashboard, displaying the standard system menu within the virtual view when the headset is active. <ref name="ign"/><ref name="pcmag"/>

The PS VR2 also offers a '''[[Cinematic Mode]]''' which allows users to play non-VR PS5 and PS4 games, watch movies, or use media apps on a large virtual screen projected within the headset. <ref name="verge"/><ref name="cnet"/><ref name="pcmag"/> This mode supports HDR and up to 120Hz playback for compatible content, but outputs at a maximum resolution of 1920x1080 (1080p). <ref name="verge"/><ref name="cnet"/><ref name="wiki-psvr2"/> Users need to use a standard [[DualSense]] controller to play non-VR games in this mode. <ref name="cnet"/>

The PS VR2 launched with over 30 titles, a mix of new games, ports from other VR platforms, and VR modes for existing PS5 games. <ref name="uploadvr-review"/><ref name="pcmag"/> Key launch titles included the exclusive [[Horizon Call of the Mountain]], a visually impressive adventure game designed to showcase the headset's capabilities, and free VR updates for major PS5 releases like [[Gran Turismo 7]] and [[Resident Evil Village]]. <ref name="tomsguide"/><ref name="npr"/><ref name="pcmag"/> Other notable games available at or near launch included ports of popular VR titles like [[Moss]] and [[Moss: Book II]], [[Star Wars: Tales from the Galaxy's Edge]] (Enhanced Edition), [[Rez Infinite]], [[Tetris Effect: Connected]], [[Kayak VR: Mirage]], [[Pistol Whip]], [[Pavlov VR]], [[No Man's Sky]] (VR update), and [[Demeo]]. <ref name="tomsguide"/><ref name="verge"/><ref name="npr"/><ref name="pcmag"/><ref name="uploadvr-review"/>

A significant point of criticism is that the PS VR2 is not [[backward compatible]] with games designed for the original PlayStation VR. <ref name="wired"/><ref name="verge"/><ref name="cnet"/><ref name="pcmag"/> Sony stated that the fundamental differences in tracking technology (inside-out vs. external camera), controller input (Sense vs. Move/DualShock 4), and features like eye tracking necessitated a different development approach, preventing direct compatibility. <ref name="pcmag"/><ref name="wiki-psvr2"/> While some developers have released ports or upgrades of their original PSVR games for PS VR2 (sometimes offered for free or at a discount to existing owners), the extensive library of the original headset remains inaccessible on the new hardware unless specifically updated by the developer. <ref name="ign"/><ref name="cnet"/><ref name="uploadvr-review"/>

===Content Concerns & Future Developments===

In February 2024, Sony announced it was testing official PC support for the PS VR2.<ref name="wiki-psvr2"/> This feature launched on August 7, 2024, requiring a separately sold PC adapter ($59.99). This allows PS VR2 owners to access the [[SteamVR]] library on compatible PCs. However, certain PS VR2 features like HDR, eye tracking, adaptive triggers, and headset haptics are not supported when used on PC.<ref name="wiki-psvr2"/> Reports in December 2024 also suggested Sony was in talks with Apple regarding potential compatibility of the Sense controllers with the [[Apple Vision Pro]].<ref name="wiki-psvr2"/>

The PlayStation VR2 received generally positive reviews upon launch, with critics widely praising it as a significant technological advancement over the original PSVR and a high-quality, immersive VR system for the PS5. <ref name="ign"/><ref name="wired"/><ref name="t3"/><ref name="pcmag"/> The high-resolution OLED HDR display, comfortable and glasses-friendly design, advanced Sense controllers with adaptive triggers and haptics, reliable inside-out tracking, and the innovative inclusion of eye tracking with foveated rendering were frequently highlighted as major strengths. <ref name="ign"/><ref name="wired"/><ref name="npr"/><ref name="cnet"/><ref name="pcmag"/> The simplified setup process using a single cable was also seen as a vast improvement over the original. <ref name="ign"/><ref name="wired"/><ref name="verge"/> It was often lauded as offering a premium VR experience comparable to high-end PC VR, but with the convenience of a console ecosystem. <ref name="ign"/><ref name="pcmag"/><ref name="uploadvr-review"/>

However, the high launch price of $549.99, costing more than the PS5 console itself, was a common and significant point of concern, potentially limiting its mainstream appeal compared to more affordable standalone options like the [[Meta Quest 2]]/[[Meta Quest 3]]. <ref name="wired"/><ref name="verge"/><ref name="t3"/><ref name="cnet"/> The lack of backward compatibility with the large library of original PSVR games and ongoing questions about the strength, frequency, and exclusivity of its future software library were also significant criticisms. <ref name="tomsguide"/><ref name="wired"/><ref name="verge"/><ref name="cnet"/>

Sales figures indicated a strong start, with Sony reporting nearly 600,000 units sold in the first six weeks.<ref name="wiki-psvr2"/> However, subsequent reports suggested demand slowed, leading to the temporary production pause in early 2024.<ref name="wiki-psvr2"/><ref name="uploadvr-yoshida"/> Former Sony executive Shuhei Yoshida expressed some disappointment in a December 2024 interview, stating he was "wrong" about PS VR2 becoming the "PS2" of VR, implying it hadn't met high market expectations, though he praised titles like [[Synapse]] and [[Before Your Eyes]]. <ref name="uploadvr-yoshida"/> Temporary price drops to $350 during holiday sales reportedly led to significant increases in sales velocity, suggesting high price sensitivity among potential buyers. <ref name="uploadvr-yoshida"/>

! Publication

! Score

| [[IGN]]

| 9/10<ref name="ign"/>

| [[Wired (magazine)|Wired]]

| 8/10<ref name="wired"/>

| [[The Verge]]

| 7/10<ref name="verge"/>

| [[CNET]]

| 8.0/10<ref name="cnet"/>

| [[PC Magazine|PCMag]]

| 4.5/5 (Outstanding)<ref name="pcmag"/>

| [[T3 (magazine)|T3]]

| 4/5<ref name="t3"/>

| [[UploadVR]]

| Recommended<ref name="uploadvr-review"/>

| [[PC Gamer]]

| 88/100<ref name="pcgamer"/>

==Images==

File:playstation vr27.jpg

File:playstation vr22.jpg

File:playstation vr21.jpg

</gallery>

==See Also==

* [[Virtual reality headset]]

* [[List of PlayStation VR games]]

* [[List of PlayStation VR2 games]]

* [[Meta Quest 2]] / [[Meta Quest 3]]

* [[Comparison of virtual reality headsets]]

<ref name="tomsguide">[https://www.tomsguide.com/gaming/playstation/psvr-2-one-year-later-heres-the-good-and-the-bad-after-12-months PSVR 2 one year later - here’s the good and the bad after 12 months]. ''Tom's Guide''. Published February 22, 2024.</ref>

<ref name="ign">[https://www.ign.com/articles/playstation-vr2-review PlayStation VR2 Review]. ''IGN''. Updated September 13, 2024.</ref>

<ref name="wired">[https://www.wired.com/review/playstation-vr-2/ Review: Sony PSVR 2]. ''Wired''. Published February 16, 2023.</ref>

<ref name="verge">[https://www.theverge.com/23601368/sony-playstation-ps-vr2-review-virtual-reality PSVR 2 review: love on a leash]. ''The Verge''. Published February 16, 2023.</ref>

<ref name="npr">[https://www.npr.org/2023/02/21/1158486910/playstation-vr2-horizon-call-of-the-mountain-review 'PlayStation VR2' Review: A strong foundation with a questionable future]. ''NPR''. Published February 21, 2023.</ref>

<ref name="uploadvr-yoshida">[https://www.uploadvr.com/shuhei-yoshida-sorry-playstation-vr2/ Sony's Shuhei Yoshida: "I'm Sorry I Was Wrong" About PlayStation VR2]. ''UploadVR''. Published December 13, 2024.</ref>

<ref name="t3">[https://www.t3.com/reviews/playstation-vr2-review-psvr2 PSVR2 review: is Sony PlayStation VR2 the best virtual reality ever?]. ''T3''. Published February 16, 2023.</ref>

<ref name="cnet">[https://www.cnet.com/tech/gaming/psvr-2-review-the-best-vr-gaming-experience-with-strings-attached/ PSVR 2 Review: The Best VR Gaming Experience With Strings Attached]. ''CNET''. Updated February 23, 2023.</ref>

<ref name="pcmag">[https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/sony-playstation-vr2 Sony PlayStation VR2 Review]. ''PCMag''. Published February 16, 2023.</ref>

<ref name="pcgamer">[https://www.pcgamer.com/sony-ps-vr2-review/ Sony PS VR2 Review]. ''PC Gamer''. Published March 17, 2023.</ref>

<ref name="psspecs">[https://www.playstation.com/en-us/ps-vr2/ps-vr2-tech-specs/ PlayStation VR2 tech specs]. ''PlayStation.com''. Accessed December 16, 2024.</ref>

<ref name="uploadvr-review">[https://www.uploadvr.com/playstation-vr2-review/ PlayStation VR2 Review: Next-Generation VR Gaming For PS5]. ''UploadVR''. Published February 16, 2023.</ref>

<ref name="vrcompare">[https://vr-compare.com/headset/playstationvr2 PlayStation VR2 Specs]. ''VR Compare''. Accessed December 16, 2024.</ref>

<ref name="wiki-psvr2">[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PlayStation_VR2 PlayStation VR2]. ''Wikipedia''. Accessed December 16, 2024.</ref>