When it comes to VR there are plenty of options, and it can be difficult to justify which one is the best to use. The PSVR2 is unique in the market, working directly with a console. This is then more aimed at providing a PCVR experience on a console as opposed to what you might get with a standalone headset. The price is eyewatering, it’s more expensive than a PS5, but when you think of it as an alternative to PCVR it’s a bargain because you won’t need that high-end PC to make it work.
PSVR2 Overview
The design is a clear evolution of the PSVR1, and I am pleased to say the controllers have had a complete redesign from those terrible move controllers used in the first generation. There have been minor improvements, with the tightening dial and release button, and USB-C connectivity. Much like its predecessor, the PSVR2 comes with integrated earbuds, or you can plug your own into the jack port. The cable that connects is wired into the headset, which is a shame; a detachable cable would have been ideal, but it doesn’t get in the way during gameplay. The headset has a few more buttons to control power and a dial to adjust the lenses. My favourite feature is the dedicated button that can trigger passthrough mode. While it’s only black and white it is a far more reliable mechanism than the side taps of alternative headsets.
The headset plugs into the PS5 directly and works with minimal effort or setup. One of the first things that will happen is a scan of your environment to establish a safe play area. Room-scale is available, but you’ll need a decent 2m x 2m space for it. If you cross over your designated area, the headset will warn you, so hitting into something isn’t too likely, but it’s a good idea to move anything fragile just in case!
Is PSVR2 Comfortable?
The PSVR2 headset is an improvement on its predecessor in terms of comfort, while still utilising similar features when it comes to adjustment with the dial on the back to tighten the strap and button on the front to adjust the front. There is some balance in the headset, but, as you’d expect, it’s front-heavy.
The dial on the top to adjust the lenses is a nice touch to get maximum visual comfort inside the headset. All in all, the headset is comfortable to wear for a few hours. The design of the earphones to clip around the back is also great to prevent unnecessary cables, and wearing them is comfortable too.
What is diabolical is the silicone eye cover. It’s uncomfortable, unpadded, and generally terrible. It will make you hot, uncomfortable, and generally astonished that someone at PlayStation thought it was a good idea. Seriously, for the price of this headset, I expect a lot more. The sooner a third-party replacement comes out, the better.
Set-up and Configuration
Set-up and configuration of the PSVR2 is incredibly easy. You plug it into your PlayStation 5. Ok, that’s a little oversimplified as you do need to configure some settings and set your play area and connect the controllers etc., but honestly, it’s super straightforward. Unlike standalone VR headsets, PSVR2 is reliant on the console to work, so it’s more of an accessory than its own thing.
Battery Life/Charging
As the PSVR2 is connected to the console directly via a non-detachable cable, the headset doesn’t need batteries and can, in theory, run for as long as you have electricity. Sadly, however, the same cannot be said for the controllers.
The controllers charge via USB-C, and they can be plugged into the console to charge, much like you would the standard controller. The controllers will only last for approximately four hours which is significantly better than the competition.
My biggest complaint comes with the official charging dock (sold separately). The dock comes with USB-C connectors that plug into the controllers, which allows for the controllers to attach magnetically to the dock and charge. The controller lights are supposed to light, but I’ve never really been able to tell if it’s working. The connection is also unstable, and the controllers are easy to knock off.
Visuals
One clear upgrade from the previous model is the resolution. While the PSVR1 was capped at 1080p, the PSVR2 hits an incredible 2000x2040p resolution per eye. This gives fantastic visual fidelity with a crisp and sharp image. In addition to great visuals, the PSVR2 also has high refresh rates (90Hz to 120Hz), which should reduce the motion sickness some people experience with virtual reality. Combined with the 110-degree field of view and vibrant OLED display, the immersive nature and visuals of the PSVR2 are excellent.
One of the most unique features of the headset is the intelligent eye tracking, designed to heighten responses and provide unique gameplay mechanics.
Overall, the experience was astonishing. I’ve used most VR headsets on the market at one point or another, and gameplay felt solid and immersive.
Game Selection on PSVR2
Currently, there are approximately 40 games available right now on the PSVR2, and rumours suggest a further 60 or so titles in development. While not as large a selection as, say, the PICO 4 or Quest 2, that makes sense. It’s only been out since February 2023. What is available, however, is amazing. From big titles getting the VR treatment like Resident Evil, Gran Turismo, and Horizon to more casual games. From shooters like After the Fall to a crazy bat-based game (What the Bat, I’m looking at you!). With Jurassic Park dinosaurs and terrifying horror games like Switchback, the PSVR2 will, from the off, have something for everyone. There’s also games which have been enhanced for PSVR2, like Tales from the Galaxy’s Edge.
I think the biggest appeal, however, comes from what could be possible in the future. Being directly tied into the PlayStation ecosystem, in theory, means any title you can enjoy on PlayStation could get the VR treatment. Imagine, an Uncharted, SpiderMan, Ratchet and Clank or God of War in VR? The possibilities are literally endless. I think that’s the biggest appeal of PSVR; whether exclusive titles like this will happen remains to be seen, but thankfully in the meantime, what is available is great.
Technical Specification
| Display Method | OLED |
| Resolution | 2000×2040 per eye |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz, 120Hz |
| Lens Separation | Adjustable |
| Field of View | 110 degrees |
| Sensors | Six-axis motion sensor system (3-axis gyroscope and 3-axis accelerometer) IR proximity sensor |
| Cameras | 4 embedded cameras for tracking IR camera for eye tracking (per eye) |
| Feedback | Vibration on the headset (Haptics in controllers) |
| Connection | USB Type C cable to PS5 |
| Audio | Input: Built-in microphone Output: Stereo headphone jack |
What’s In The Box?
- VR Headset
- PlayStation VR2 Sense™ controller (L) / (R) with attached straps
- USB cable (for controller pairing and charging)
- Stereo headphones
- Three pairs of earpieces
- Printed materials (which will include the Horizon game code if you bought the bundle)
PSVR2 Price and Availability
PSVR2 is available now from PlayStation Direct for £529.99 for the headset and controllers or £569.99 for the PlayStation®VR2 Horizon Call of the Mountain™ Bundle, which includes the Horizon Call of the Mountain VR game as well. The charging station costs an additional £39.99, but I don’t recommend it.
Final Thoughts on PSVR2
The PSVR2 is a clear upgrade from PlayStation’s first steps into the world of VR during the last generation. While currently, games are few and far between compared to the standalone VR headsets, the access to possible franchises is unrivalled and promises some exciting possibilities in the future. PSVR2 is, however, an expensive accessory for an already expensive console, and while the audio and graphics are fantastic, and the headset is mostly comfortable to wear, it isn’t worth the current price unless you a) own a PS5 already and b) really want VR on the PlayStation.
