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{{Device Infobox
{{Device Infobox
|name = PlayStation VR
|image =
|image =
|VR/AR = [[Virtual Reality]]
|VR/AR = [[Virtual Reality]]
|Type = [[Head-Mounted Display]]
|Type = [[Head-mounted display]]
|Subtype = [[Console VR]]
|Subtype = [[Console VR]]
|Platform = [[PlayStation 4]], [[PlayStation 5]]
|Platform = [[PlayStation 4]], [[PlayStation 5]] (via adapter)
|Creator = [[Sony Interactive Entertainment]]
|Developer = [[Sony Interactive Entertainment]]
|Developer = [[Sony Interactive Entertainment]]
|Manufacturer = [[Sony]]
|Manufacturer = [[Sony Interactive Entertainment]]
|Announcement Date = March 18, 2014 (GDC, as "Project Morpheus")
|Release Date = October 13, 2016
|Release Date = October 13, 2016
|Announcement Date = March 2014 (GDC, as Project Morpheus)
|Price = $399 (headset), $499 (Launch Bundle)
|Price = $399 USD
|Website = https://www.playstation.com/ps-vr/
|Website = https://www.playstation.com/
|Versions = CUH-ZVR1 (original), CUH-ZVR2 (revised 2017)
|Requires = PlayStation 4 or PlayStation 5 (with adapter), PlayStation Camera
|Predecessor = None
|Successor = [[PlayStation VR2]]
|Successor = [[PlayStation VR2]]
|Display = OLED (5.7")
|Operating System = PlayStation system software
|Resolution = 960x1080 per eye
|Chipset = External Processing Unit (EPU)
|Combined Resolution = 1920x1080
|CPU = N/A (PS4/PS5-powered)
|Refresh Rate = 90/120 Hz
|GPU = N/A (PS4/PS5-powered)
|Field of View = 96°
|HPU =
|Storage = N/A
|Memory = N/A
|SD Card Slot = No
|Display = Single 5.7" OLED
|Subpixel Layout = RGB stripe
|Peak Brightness = Not specified
|Resolution = 960 × 1080 per eye (1920 × 1080 total)
|Pixel Density = ~10 PPD
|Refresh Rate = 90Hz, 120Hz (reprojection)
|Persistence = Low persistence
|Field of View = 100°
|Horizontal FoV = ~96°
|Vertical FoV = ~96°
|Average Pixel Density = ~10 PPD
|Peak Pixel Density = ~10 PPD
|Foveated Rendering = No
|Optics = Aspheric lenses
|Ocularity = Binocular
|Ocularity = Binocular
|Tracking = 6DoF (PlayStation Camera, external)
|IPD Range = Software adjustment (no physical)
|Audio = 3D Audio (processor unit)
|Adjustable Diopter = No (glasses compatible)
|Controllers = DualShock 4 / PlayStation Move / PS VR Aim
|Passthrough = No
|Tracking = 6DoF outside-in (PlayStation Camera + visible light LEDs)
|Tracking Frequency = 60Hz (camera)
|Base Stations = PlayStation Camera required (sold separately or bundled)
|Eye Tracking = No
|Face Tracking = No
|Hand Tracking = No
|Body Tracking = No
|Rotational Tracking = Yes
|Positional Tracking = Yes
|Update Rate = 120Hz (display), 1000Hz (IMU)
|Tracking Volume = ~10 ft × 6 ft
|Play Space = Standing/seated
|Latency = <18ms motion-to-photon
|Audio = Integrated earbuds (included), 3.5mm jack
|Microphone = Yes (inline on earbuds)
|3.5mm Audio Jack = Yes
|Camera = No
|Connectivity = HDMI, USB (via EPU)
|Ports = HDMI (to EPU), USB (to EPU), 3.5mm audio
|Wired Video = Yes (HDMI via EPU)
|Wireless Video = No
|WiFi = No
|Bluetooth = No
|Power = EPU powered (AC adapter)
|Battery Capacity = N/A
|Battery Life = N/A (tethered)
|Charge Time = N/A
|Dimensions = 187 × 185 × 277mm (headset)
|Weight = 600g (headset without cable)
|Material = Plastic
|Headstrap = Adjustable halo band
|Haptics = Controller haptics (DualShock 4, PS Move)
|Color = White/Black
|Sensors = 9 LEDs (visible light), accelerometer, gyroscope
|Input = DualShock 4, PlayStation Move controllers, PlayStation VR Aim Controller
|Compliance = FCC, CE
}}
}}


The '''PlayStation VR''' (PSVR, codename: Project Morpheus) is a console [[virtual reality]] [[head-mounted display]] developed by [[Sony Interactive Entertainment]], released October 13, 2016 at $399. Sony's first consumer VR headset for PlayStation 4, featuring 5.7-inch OLED display at 1920x1080, 90/120 Hz refresh rate, 96° field of view, PlayStation Camera external tracking, 3D Audio processing unit, and compatibility with PS4 controllers. Forward compatible with PlayStation 5.
The '''PlayStation VR''' (PSVR) is a [[console VR]] [[head-mounted display]] developed by [[Sony Interactive Entertainment]], first revealed as "Project Morpheus" at GDC on March 18, 2014, and released on October 13, 2016 at a price of $399 for the headset alone or $499 for the Launch Bundle including PlayStation Camera and PlayStation VR Worlds. The PSVR brought high-quality VR to the living room through the PlayStation 4, offering an accessible entry point compared to PC VR headsets that required expensive gaming computers. Featuring a 5.7-inch OLED display at 1920 × 1080 resolution (960 × 1080 per eye), 120Hz capability, comfortable halo-band design, and a unique RGB subpixel arrangement that reduced screen door effect, the PSVR sold over 5 million units by its second anniversary, establishing console VR as a viable market segment.


== History and Development ==
== History and Development ==


Sony revealed Project Morpheus at GDC in March 2014, announcing the final PlayStation VR product in 2015 with October 2016 release. Targeting the console gaming market, PSVR delivered accessible VR without requiring a gaming PC. The external processor unit handles 3D Audio processing and Social Screen mirroring to TV. Over 5 million units sold by January 2020. Succeeded by PlayStation VR2 in February 2023.<ref name="playstation">{{cite web |url=https://www.playstation.com/en-us/ps-vr/tech-specs/ |title=PlayStation VR Tech Specs |publisher=PlayStation |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>
=== Project Morpheus ===
Initial development:
* Internal Sony research since 2010
* "Project Morpheus" codename
* Named after Greek god of dreams
* GDC 2014 reveal


== Design and Hardware ==
=== GDC 2014 Announcement ===
Public unveiling:
* March 18, 2014
* Prototype demonstrated
* PlayStation ecosystem integration
* Developer enthusiasm


=== Display ===
=== Development Iterations ===
Multiple prototypes:
* Original 2014 prototype
* Updated 2015 version (GDC)
* Near-final at TGS 2015
* "PlayStation VR" final name (September 2015)


OLED panel:
=== E3 2016 Launch Details ===
Commercial launch announced:
* October 13, 2016 release date
* $399 pricing revealed
* Launch game lineup
* Bundle options


* '''960x1080 per eye''' resolution
=== October 2016 Launch ===
* '''1920x1080 combined''' (Full HD)
Global release:
* '''5.7-inch OLED'''
* $399 headset only
* '''Full RGB''' subpixels
* $499 Launch Bundle
* '''90 Hz / 120 Hz''' refresh rate
* PlayStation Camera required (separate or bundled)
* '''96° field of view'''
* Strong initial demand
* Low persistence


=== Tracking ===
== Design Philosophy ==


PlayStation Camera:
=== Console Accessibility ===
Living room VR:
* No PC required
* Existing PlayStation 4 base
* Lower total cost than PC VR
* Family-friendly environment
 
=== Comfort Priority ===
Extended wear design:
* Halo-band head mount
* Balanced weight distribution
* Doesn't press on face
* Comfortable for glasses
 
=== Social Screen ===
Shared experiences:
* TV shows what VR user sees
* Asymmetric multiplayer possible
* Family participation
* Party game design
 
== Display Technology ==
 
=== Single OLED Panel ===
Split display approach:
* '''Size''': 5.7 inches (single panel)
* '''Resolution''': 1920 × 1080 total (960 × 1080 per eye)
* '''Type''': OLED
* '''Subpixels''': RGB stripe (not PenTile)
 
=== RGB Subpixel Advantage ===
Reduced screen door effect:
* Full RGB arrangement
* Better than PenTile at same resolution
* Smoother image appearance
* Sony's display expertise
 
=== Refresh Rate ===
Multiple modes:
* '''Native''': 90Hz, 120Hz
* '''Reprojection''': 60fps → 120Hz
* Smooth motion
* Developer flexibility
 
=== Low Persistence ===
Motion clarity:
* Global illumination
* <18ms latency
* Reduced blur
* Comfortable viewing
 
== Optical System ==


* '''External camera''' (required)
=== Aspheric Lenses ===
* '''9 positional LEDs''' on headset
Clean optics:
* '''360° head tracking'''
* Minimal god rays
* '''6DoF'''
* Less distortion than Fresnel
* Light-based tracking
* Good clarity
* Comfortable viewing


=== Processor Unit ===
=== Field of View ===
Approximately 100°:
* Competitive FOV
* Good immersion
* Slightly less than PC VR
* Adequate for games


External box:
=== IPD Adjustment ===
Software only:
* No physical adjustment
* Software compensation
* Works for most users
* Limitation for extremes


* '''3D Audio''' processing
=== Glasses Compatibility ===
* '''Social Screen''' output
Designed for glasses:
* Mirror or separate TV display
* Headset extends forward
* Cinematic Mode (non-VR)
* Doesn't press on frames
* Good glasses fit
* Comfort maintained


=== Audio ===
== External Processing Unit (EPU) ==


* '''3D Audio effect'''
=== Breakout Box ===
* Processed by external unit
Required component:
* '''3.5mm headphone jack'''
* Connects headset to PS4
* Binaural audio
* Processes 3D audio
* Handles social screen output
* Powers headset


=== Comfort ===
=== Functionality ===
Processing tasks:
* Mirror display to TV (social screen)
* 3D audio processing
* Cinematic Mode rendering
* Signal management


* Halo-style headband
=== Connection Flow ===
* Adjustable fit
System integration:
* Glasses-friendly
* PS4 → EPU → Headset
* Balanced weight
* PS4 → EPU → TV (social screen)
* Seamless switching
* VR/non-VR transitions
 
== Tracking System ==
 
=== PlayStation Camera Tracking ===
Visible light LED tracking:
* 9 LEDs on headset
* Tracked by PlayStation Camera
* 6DoF positioning
* Visible light (not IR)
 
=== LED Configuration ===
Unique light pattern:
* Front and sides of headset
* Distinctive shape recognition
* 360° challenging
* Best facing camera
 
=== Tracking Limitations ===
System constraints:
* Front-facing primarily
* Occlusion issues when turning
* Limited tracking volume
* PlayStation Camera limitations
 
=== IMU Integration ===
Sensor fusion:
* Accelerometer
* Gyroscope
* Combined with camera data
* Smooth tracking


== Controllers ==
== Controllers ==


=== Compatible Controllers ===
=== DualShock 4 ===
Standard gamepad:
* Light bar tracked
* 6DoF positioning (limited)
* Familiar controls
* Included with PS4
 
=== PlayStation Move ===
Motion controllers:
* Originally PS3 accessory
* Two controllers recommended
* 6DoF tracking each
* Hand presence in VR
 
=== PlayStation VR Aim Controller ===
Dedicated accessory:
* Gun-shaped controller
* Designed for shooters
* Accurate aiming
* Immersive experience


* '''DualShock 4''' (standard)
== Physical Design ==
* '''PlayStation Move''' (motion)
* '''PS VR Aim''' (gun peripheral)


== Social Features ==
=== Halo Band ===
Comfort innovation:
* Band around head
* Visor extends forward
* No pressure on face
* Easy adjustment


=== Social Screen ===
=== Adjustment System ===
Fitting controls:
* Rear dial tightening
* Scope button (slides visor)
* Eye-to-lens adjustment
* Quick changes
 
=== Weight Distribution ===
Balanced design:
* 600g headset
* Weight on top of head
* Not face-heavy
* Extended comfort
 
=== CUH-ZVR2 Revision ===
2017 update:
* Slimmer EPU
* Integrated headphone cable
* Improved cable management
* HDR passthrough
 
== Audio ==
 
=== Included Earbuds ===
Standard audio:
* Stereo earbuds included
* 3D audio capable
* Inline microphone
* Removable
 
=== 3D Audio ===
Spatial sound:
* Custom audio engine
* Positional accuracy
* Enhances immersion
* HRTF processing
 
=== 3.5mm Jack ===
Upgrade option:
* Use own headphones
* Better audio quality possible
* Premium headphone support
 
== Cinematic Mode ==
 
=== Virtual Screen ===
Non-VR content viewing:
* All PS4 content in VR
* Virtual cinema screen
* Three size options (small/medium/large)
* Up to 226" virtual screen
 
=== 2D Gaming ===
Regular games in VR:
* Play any PS4 game
* Large virtual display
* Personal theater experience
* Alternative viewing mode
 
== Software and Games ==
 
=== Launch Titles ===
Day-one content:
* PlayStation VR Worlds
* Batman: Arkham VR
* RIGS: Mechanized Combat League
* EVE: Valkyrie
* Job Simulator
 
=== Exclusive Games ===
Platform-defining titles:
* Astro Bot Rescue Mission
* Blood & Truth
* Resident Evil 7 (full game)
* Gran Turismo Sport (VR mode)
* Firewall Zero Hour
 
=== Third-Party Support ===
Wide content library:
* Beat Saber
* Superhot VR
* No Man's Sky VR
* Skyrim VR
* 500+ VR titles
 
== PlayStation 5 Compatibility ==
 
=== PS5 Support ===
Backward compatibility:
* Plays PSVR games on PS5
* Free camera adapter required
* Enhanced performance some games
* Legacy support
 
=== Adapter Required ===
Camera connection:
* PS5 doesn't have PS4 camera port
* Free adapter from Sony
* Same tracking system
* Functional on next-gen
 
== Commercial Success ==
 
=== Sales Performance ===
Strong adoption:
* Over 5 million units (by October 2019)
* Best-selling VR headset at launch
* Console audience reached
* Market expansion
 
=== Market Impact ===
Industry significance:
* Proved console VR viable
* Mainstream VR exposure
* Developer support
* Platform longevity


* Mirror headset view to TV
== Comparison with PC VR ==
* Separate competitive/co-op display
* Spectator mode
* Asymmetric gameplay


== Platform Compatibility ==
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Feature !! PlayStation VR !! Oculus Rift CV1 !! HTC Vive
|-
| Price || $399 || $599 || $799
|-
| Platform || PS4 ($299+) || Gaming PC ($900+) || Gaming PC ($900+)
|-
| Resolution/eye || 960×1080 || 1080×1200 || 1080×1200
|-
| Refresh Rate || 90/120Hz || 90Hz || 90Hz
|-
| FOV || 100° || 110° || 110°
|-
| Tracking || Camera (visible) || Constellation (IR) || Lighthouse (IR)
|-
| Room-scale || Limited || With sensors || Native
|}


=== PlayStation 4 ===
== Legacy ==


* Native platform
=== Console VR Establishment ===
* Full compatibility
Proved market:
* All PS4 models
* 5+ million units sold
* Console VR viable
* Developer support
* Mainstream reach


=== PlayStation 5 ===
=== Comfort Innovation ===
Design influence:
* Halo band design copied
* Face-pressure-free concept
* Glasses compatibility
* Extended wear comfort


* '''Forward compatible'''
=== PlayStation VR2 Foundation ===
* Adapter required
Successor development:
* PSVR games playable
* Lessons applied
* Not native PS5 VR
* Technology advancement
* PS5-native design
* Next generation


== Technical Specifications ==
== Technical Specifications Summary ==


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
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! Specification !! Details
! Specification !! Details
|-
|-
| Display || 5.7" OLED
| Display || 5.7" OLED, 960 × 1080 per eye
|-
|-
| Resolution || 960x1080 per eye
| Total Resolution || 1920 × 1080
|-
|-
| Combined || 1920x1080
| Refresh Rate || 90Hz, 120Hz
|-
|-
| Refresh Rate || 90/120 Hz
| FOV || ~100°
|-
|-
| FOV || 96°
| Tracking || PlayStation Camera (visible LEDs)
|-
|-
| Tracking || PlayStation Camera
| Subpixels || RGB stripe
|-
|-
| LEDs || 9 positional
| Audio || 3D audio, earbuds included
|-
|-
| Audio || 3D Audio (processor unit)
| Controllers || DualShock 4, PS Move
|-
|-
| Price || $399
| Weight || 600g
|-
| Platform || PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5
|-
| Price || $399 (headset)
|}
|}
== Reception ==
'''Praise:'''
* $399 accessible price
* Console convenience
* No PC required
* OLED display quality
* 120 Hz capable
* Social Screen feature
* Comfortable design
* Strong launch library
* Over 5 million sold
'''Criticism:'''
* 960x1080 per eye low
* External camera required
* Tracking limitations
* Move controllers dated
* Setup complexity
* Cable management
* PS4 Pro recommended
* Superseded by PSVR2<ref name="wikipedia">{{cite web |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PlayStation_VR |title=PlayStation VR |publisher=Wikipedia |access-date=2025-01-07}}</ref>


== See Also ==
== See Also ==
* [[Sony Interactive Entertainment]]
* [[PlayStation VR2]]
* [[PlayStation VR2]]
* [[Meta Quest 2]]
* [[PlayStation 4]]
* [[Oculus Rift]]
* [[PlayStation Move]]
* [[HTC Vive]]
* [[Console VR]]
* [[Virtual Reality]]


== References ==
== References ==
{{reflist}}
{{Reflist}}


[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Devices]]
[[Category:Virtual Reality Devices]]
[[Category:VR Headsets]]
[[Category:Head-Mounted Displays]]
[[Category:Head-mounted displays]]
[[Category:Console VR]]
[[Category:Console VR]]
[[Category:Sony]]
[[Category:Sony]]
[[Category:PlayStation]]
[[Category:PlayStation]]
[[Category:2016 in technology]]
[[Category:2010s VR]]