Sony Interactive Entertainment Australia just dropped some more details on the features of the upcoming updated PS VR2 and it’s pretty impressive. Some of the features are already available in other VR headsets like the Meta Quest 2, but this is certainly a massive leap forward for the PlayStation-compatible device and paired with what’s been hinted at for performance could make the landscape of VR in the future very interesting.
After all the original PS VR was the device that really made quality VR a regular household thing that wasn’t limited to VR enthusiasts with big wallets. That experience was later improved on with the stand-alone device the Meta Quest 2 and it feels a bit like a game of virtual tennis between the two companies as to who can create the most consumer-friendly VR system.
While Meta certainly has the technology backing and social aspects covered. Sony will be able to power ahead with a great gaming experience using exclusive titles to attract PlayStation gamers. Some of the best games on VR are on that system.
PS VR2 – See-Through View
With PS VR2, you can see your real-life surroundings while wearing the headset with our new see-through feature. It comes in handy when you want to easily check where the PS VR2 Sense controllers are in your room without taking the headset off. Thanks to PS VR2’s embedded front cameras, users can press the function button on the headset or use the Card in the Control Centre to switch between viewing their surroundings and viewing the content through the headset.
The Card in the Control Centre also gives quick access to other PS VR2 settings, such as adjusting your play area.
PS VR2 – Broadcast Yourself While Playing
A new broadcast feature for PS VR2 will allow you to film yourself while playing by connecting a PS5 HD Camera to the console. It’s a great way to show your movements and reactions during a boss battle and share with your fellow gamers as it happens!
While images aren’t showing you in the action as some VR streamers do (see one of my favourites Naysy below), it’s a nice touch that I’m sure plenty of people will take advantage of.
PS VR2 – Customised Play Area
The play area for PS VR2 can be customised by using the PS VR2 Sense controllers and embedded cameras. The cameras will scan the room, while the controllers allow you to expand and map the play area to fit your play style and room environment. Always handy to map out your space in case the dog is asleep on the rug in the corner of the room and just won’t budge.
PS VR2 – VR Mode and Cinematic Mode
In VR Mode, you can enjoy 360-view game content in a virtual environment. Content will be displayed in 4000 x 2040 HDR video format (2000 x 2040 per eye) with a 90Hz/120Hz frame rate.
In Cinematic Mode, you can view the PS5 system and UI, as well as all non-VR game and media content on a virtual cinema screen. Content in Cinematic Mode will be displayed in 1920×1080 HDR video format with 24/60Hz and also 120Hz frame rates.
Game developers are getting access to the latest user experience for PS VR2 in a new system software release coming soon as part of ongoing development.
PlayStation has told us to look forward to more info on PS VR2 soon which will include the official launch date and some of the games coming to the platform.
