The PlayStation VR 2 is Sony’s second attempt at a virtual reality headset. The PlayStation 4 had a PSVR headset, but it was marred by screen door, performance issues, a cacophony of cables and dildo-like move controllers with a convoluted tracking process. The PSVR 1 had some great titles but never felt like an adequately supported device.
My first foray into the PSVR 2 as someone experienced with virtual reality headsets was enjoyable. My point of reference is my HP Reverb G2 headset which is similar in specs to the PSVR 2 but is frustrating to use as I have encountered numerous problems with Steam VR and Windows Mixed Reality software. The PSVR 2 is comfortable, and getting lost for hours is easy.
I tend to get excited about virtual reality and have wanted to see it succeed for over a decade. While VR has undoubtedly grown, it’s not mainstream due to the barrier to entry. Most notably, requiring beefy PC setups or locked down (like the original PSVR headset). Adding to my growing collection of VR headsets, I preordered the PSVR 2 headset for the PlayStation 5.
There has been work done on untethered VR headsets, failed beginnings with Samsung creating phone VR headsets before Meta struck gold with the Meta Quest. Not only does it support using it by itself, but it can also be connected to a computer. Then you have the heavy, expensive hitters like the HTC Vive Pro 2 for powerful computer VR experiences.