In response to growing public disinterest in virtual reality, Sony has opted to activate the “PC compatible” feature to boost sales of the PSVR 2, which was launched for the PS5 approximately one year ago. This move is not unexpected given the company’s strategy, which is increasingly focusing on the gaming PC and Steam markets, seen as promising sectors. It is worth noting that last week, during the State of Play event, God of War Ragnarok was confirmed for PC release, further supporting this strategic shift. However, PSVR 2 users will have to wait until August 7th to use the headset on a PC platform, with an additional €60 required for the compatibility box.
To use the PlayStation VR2 on a PC, connect it using a DisplayPort 1.4 cable and download both the PlayStation VR2 and SteamVR applications from Steam. This setup enables you to configure the headset on your computer, adjust settings, define gameplay areas, and purchase SteamVR games. Sony has noted that this porting involves certain compromises; features like HDR, eye movement tracking, and DualSense functions (such as adaptive triggers and haptic feedback) will not be available. In terms of audio, the headset will utilize Steam VR’s technology instead of Tempest, which is used in Sony’s console. However, Sony has indicated that other features will still be supported in compatible games, including 4K resolution (2000 x 2040 per eye), a 110-degree field of view, finger touch detection, see-through mode, foveated rendering without eye movement tracking, and 3D audio.
This may well represent Sony’s final opportunity to revitalize its virtual reality headset, as it faces the risk of discontinuing a technology that has not yet captured the interest of the general public. Only time will reveal the outcome.
