The long-awaited freedom from the PlayStation 5 has finally come for the PlayStation VR2 headset. Sony has brought out a $60 adapter that allows your $550 VR headset to work with any of their VR games on Steam. But before you rush to get it, there are a few trade-offs to be aware of when you connect your VR2 to a PC, some of which compromise its best features.
The setup involves connecting the VR2 to a PC using several cables. According to images on PlayStation’s blog, the VR2 needs a wired connection to the adapter box, which connects to the PC via USB and DisplayPort. Additionally, you can connect it to a monitor, so others can watch you navigate through the intricate puzzles of Half-Life: Alyx.
However, make sure your PC includes a DisplayPort 1.4 output, along with a separate DisplayPort cable. The basic requirements are about what you’d expect: an Intel Core i5-7600 or AMD Ryzen 3 3100 CPU, at least 8 GB of RAM, and an Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650 or AMD Radeon RX 5500XT graphics card. To truly enjoy games to the 4K standards the VR2 supports, you’ll want a more robust setup. Sony also states that you’ll need a Steam account for access to your games. If there are any specific Steam VR requirements, they probably won’t last long given the innovative nature of the PC VR community.
In our review, the VR2 stood out as an exceptional headset with superb eye tracking and controls, priced reasonably. Unfortunately, it was hobbled by a somewhat limited selection of games on PlayStation 5. Sony brought out their updated headset before Meta launched the $500 Meta Quest 3, which comes with updated passthrough AR capabilities and a host of exclusive titles. The VR2 features impressive lenses with support for up to 4K resolution per eye and a wide 110-degree field of view.
Despite the excitement of using the VR2 with a PC, there are some major limitations to consider. A significant downside is that the headset’s eye-tracking won’t function on a PC. Key features like HDR and headset feedback are also unavailable. The controllers lack adaptive triggers similar to the DualSense controller and offer little more than basic rumble feedback. Limited passthrough features will still function, mainly to help you avoid tripping over furniture.
The adapter is set to be available on PlayStation Direct and other retailers by August. Currently, the VR2 is $100 off at Direct and Best Buy during Sony’s Days of Play sale, which runs through June 13.
Even with the discount, the VR2 remains pricey, especially if you have to shell out an extra $60 to break free from Sony’s restrictive PlayStation ecosystem. We’re eager to get our hands on one to determine if this makes the VR2 a worthy investment for those curious about virtual reality. However, the connection requirements and feature limitations put a bit of a damper on the excitement.
