Virtual Reality (VR) has been a buzzword for years, promising immersive experiences and revolutionary gaming. Sony’s PlayStation VR (PSVR), launched in 2016, aimed to bring VR to the masses at an accessible price point. But in the ever-evolving landscape of technology, is PSVR still worth considering in 2020? The answer, as with most things, is nuanced and depends on your individual needs and expectations.
A Look Back: PSVR’s Initial Impact
PSVR made a significant splash upon its release. It offered a relatively affordable entry point into VR, especially for PlayStation 4 owners who already had a compatible console. The headset itself provided a decent level of immersion, and a library of games began to emerge, showcasing the potential of VR gaming. Games like Resident Evil 7, Batman: Arkham VR, and Astro Bot Rescue Mission demonstrated that compelling VR experiences were indeed possible. The ease of setup and integration with the existing PlayStation ecosystem made it an attractive option for gamers curious about VR but hesitant to invest in more expensive, PC-based solutions.
The Hardware: Strengths and Weaknesses
The original PSVR headset boasts a 1080p OLED display split between both eyes, offering a decent resolution for its time. Its 120Hz refresh rate (with reprojection) aimed to minimize motion sickness, a common concern with early VR technology. However, the headset’s tracking system, relying on the PlayStation Camera and light-based tracking, proved to be its most significant limitation.
Occlusion was a frequent issue, especially when using the PlayStation Move controllers. If the controllers were obscured from the camera’s view, tracking would be lost, disrupting the immersion. The limited tracking volume also restricted movement within the virtual space. Compared to more advanced VR systems, the PSVR’s tracking felt somewhat rudimentary.
The headset’s ergonomics were generally well-received, with a comfortable design that distributed weight effectively. However, the abundance of cables could be cumbersome, and the lack of built-in headphones was a minor inconvenience.
The PlayStation Camera: A Critical Component
The PlayStation Camera is an integral part of the PSVR experience. It is responsible for tracking the headset and the PlayStation Move controllers. However, its limited field of view and susceptibility to environmental lighting can cause tracking issues. Ensuring proper lighting conditions and optimal camera placement is crucial for a smooth VR experience with PSVR.
The Game Library: A Maturing Selection
One of the most important aspects of any VR platform is the availability of compelling content. Over the years, the PSVR library has grown significantly, offering a diverse range of experiences, from action-packed shooters to immersive puzzle games.
Standout Titles and Hidden Gems
Games like Blood & Truth, Moss, Firewall Zero Hour, and Beat Saber have become synonymous with PSVR, showcasing the platform’s ability to deliver unique and engaging VR experiences. Many smaller, indie titles have also emerged, offering innovative gameplay mechanics and captivating storytelling.
Astro Bot Rescue Mission stands out as a particularly remarkable title, demonstrating how VR can enhance traditional platforming gameplay. The game’s charming characters, creative level design, and innovative use of the VR perspective make it a must-play for any PSVR owner.
Resident Evil 7: Biohazard is another standout example, offering a terrifying and immersive horror experience that is significantly amplified by VR. The game’s intense atmosphere and visceral gameplay make it a truly unforgettable VR title.
Limitations in AAA Support
While the PSVR library boasts a number of excellent titles, it is worth noting that it lacks the same level of AAA support as some other VR platforms. Many major game developers have been hesitant to fully embrace VR, resulting in fewer big-budget VR games. However, the existing library still offers plenty of content to explore, and the quality of many of the available games is undeniable.
PSVR on PS5: A New Lease on Life?
The arrival of the PlayStation 5 brought with it questions about the future of PSVR. Sony confirmed that the original PSVR headset is compatible with the PS5, requiring a special adapter for the PlayStation Camera. This compatibility offered a potential performance boost for existing PSVR games, leveraging the PS5’s increased processing power.
Performance Improvements and Visual Fidelity
While the core PSVR hardware remains the same, the PS5’s improved performance can lead to noticeable enhancements in visual fidelity and frame rates. Games can run smoother and look sharper on the PS5, resulting in a more immersive and enjoyable VR experience. Load times are also significantly reduced, allowing players to jump into their favorite VR games more quickly.
The PS5 Camera Adapter: A Necessary Evil
The need for a separate adapter for the PlayStation Camera is a minor inconvenience for PS5 owners who want to use their existing PSVR headset. However, the adapter is provided free of charge to existing PSVR owners, mitigating the cost.
The Future: PSVR 2 and Beyond
Sony has officially announced the development of a next-generation VR headset for the PS5, tentatively referred to as PSVR 2. This new headset promises significant improvements in resolution, field of view, tracking, and input, offering a truly next-generation VR experience. The PSVR 2 is poised to push the boundaries of VR gaming and deliver a level of immersion that was previously unattainable.
The Competition: How Does PSVR Stack Up?
The VR market has become increasingly competitive in recent years, with a variety of headsets vying for consumers’ attention. Compared to other VR systems, the PSVR offers a unique combination of affordability, ease of use, and a solid game library.
Oculus Quest and Quest 2: Standalone Freedom
The Oculus Quest and Quest 2 offer standalone VR experiences, eliminating the need for a PC or console. This freedom of movement is a major advantage, allowing players to explore virtual worlds without being tethered to a computer. However, the standalone nature of the Quest headsets also means that they have less processing power than PC-based VR systems or the PS5. The Quest 2 also requires a Facebook account, which is a concern for some users.
PC VR Headsets: High-End Immersion
PC VR headsets, such as the Valve Index and HTC Vive series, offer the highest level of visual fidelity and tracking accuracy. However, they also require a powerful and expensive gaming PC to run effectively. The cost of entry for PC VR can be significantly higher than that of PSVR.
PSVR’s Niche: Affordable Console VR
PSVR occupies a unique niche in the VR market, offering an affordable and accessible VR experience for PlayStation owners. While it may not offer the same level of performance or features as some other VR systems, it provides a compelling entry point into the world of virtual reality.
The Verdict: Is PSVR Still Worth Buying in 2020?
Whether or not PSVR is still a good buy in 2020 depends on your individual circumstances and priorities. If you already own a PS4 or PS5 and are curious about VR, PSVR can be a relatively inexpensive way to explore the technology. The game library is solid, and the PS5 can provide a performance boost.
However, it is important to be aware of the PSVR’s limitations. The tracking is not as precise as some other VR systems, and the resolution is lower than newer headsets. The impending release of PSVR 2 also raises the question of whether it is worth investing in the original PSVR at this point.
Consider these points before making a decision:
- Your budget: PSVR is generally more affordable than PC VR solutions.
- Your existing hardware: If you own a PS4 or PS5, the barrier to entry is lower.
- Your tolerance for technical limitations: Be prepared for occasional tracking issues and lower resolution compared to newer headsets.
- Your interest in VR: If you are genuinely curious about VR and want to experience it without breaking the bank, PSVR can be a good option.
- The upcoming PSVR 2: Weigh the benefits of getting into VR now versus waiting for the next-generation headset.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy PSVR in 2020 is a personal one. Weigh the pros and cons carefully, consider your budget and expectations, and decide if PSVR is the right VR solution for you.
Is the PSVR headset itself still functional and compatible with current PlayStation consoles in 2020?
Yes, the original PlayStation VR headset is still fully functional and compatible with both the standard PlayStation 4 and the PlayStation 4 Pro consoles. Sony has not discontinued support for the hardware, and it continues to work as intended. Users can expect the same level of performance and features that were available at launch, although some games may have received updates that slightly improve or alter the VR experience.
Furthermore, the PSVR headset is also compatible with the PlayStation 5 via an adapter that Sony provides free of charge to existing PSVR owners. This compatibility allows users to enjoy their existing PSVR game library on the newer console. While there isn’t a dedicated PSVR2 yet, the original PSVR remains a usable option for VR gaming on the PS5, leveraging the console’s increased processing power for potentially improved visuals and performance in some titles.
What are some of the strengths of the PSVR in 2020, considering its age?
Despite being released in 2016, the PSVR retains a few key strengths. Firstly, it boasts a robust and well-established library of VR games. Over the years, many developers have created dedicated PSVR titles, offering a wide variety of experiences, from immersive action games to captivating narrative adventures. This extensive game catalog gives PSVR a significant advantage over some newer VR platforms with smaller game selections.
Secondly, the PSVR remains one of the most affordable VR solutions available, especially when purchased used. While newer VR headsets offer improved technology, the lower entry cost of the PSVR makes it an attractive option for consumers who are curious about VR but hesitant to invest heavily. Combining the PSVR with a used PlayStation 4 can create a relatively budget-friendly entry point into the world of virtual reality gaming.
What are some of the major drawbacks or limitations of using PSVR in 2020?
One of the most significant drawbacks of the PSVR is its dated technology. Compared to newer VR headsets, the PSVR’s resolution is lower, and its tracking system is less precise. This can result in a less immersive and visually less appealing experience, especially when compared to newer headsets with higher resolutions and more accurate tracking capabilities.
Another limitation is the reliance on the PlayStation Camera and PlayStation Move controllers for tracking. These components are not always as accurate or responsive as the built-in tracking systems found in newer VR headsets. This can lead to instances of tracking loss or jitter, which can disrupt the VR experience and cause motion sickness for some users. The older technology is simply not on par with the advancements made in VR since its initial release.
How does the PSVR compare to other VR headsets available in 2020 in terms of visual fidelity and tracking?
Compared to newer VR headsets released in 2020, the PSVR generally falls short in terms of visual fidelity and tracking accuracy. Headsets like the Oculus Quest 2 and the Valve Index offer significantly higher resolutions, resulting in sharper and clearer images. This leads to a more immersive and visually impressive VR experience compared to the PSVR’s lower-resolution display.
Furthermore, the tracking systems used by these newer headsets are generally more accurate and reliable than the PSVR’s PlayStation Camera-based tracking. The Oculus Quest 2 utilizes inside-out tracking, which eliminates the need for external sensors, while the Valve Index uses base stations for precise and accurate tracking. These advancements result in a smoother and more responsive VR experience with fewer tracking issues compared to the PSVR.
Are there any new games still being released for PSVR in 2020 and beyond?
While the rate of new PSVR game releases has slowed down compared to its peak, there are still new titles being developed and released for the platform. Many independent developers continue to support PSVR, creating unique and innovative VR experiences. While AAA game releases may be less frequent, the PSVR library continues to grow with smaller, but often compelling, titles.
Sony has also confirmed that they are still committed to supporting PSVR, even with the upcoming release of a new VR headset for the PlayStation 5. This suggests that there will continue to be some level of support for the original PSVR in terms of new game releases and software updates. However, the focus will likely shift towards the newer VR hardware as it becomes more widely available.
Is buying a used PSVR a good option in 2020, considering the price and availability of newer headsets?
Purchasing a used PSVR can be a viable option in 2020, particularly for budget-conscious gamers who are curious about VR. The price of used PSVR headsets has significantly decreased since their initial release, making them an affordable entry point into the world of virtual reality. If you’re primarily interested in exploring existing PSVR games and are willing to accept the limitations of older technology, a used PSVR can provide a worthwhile experience.
However, it’s crucial to carefully consider the condition of the used headset and its components before making a purchase. Check for any signs of damage, wear, or malfunction, and ensure that all necessary accessories, such as the PlayStation Camera and PlayStation Move controllers, are included. If you are seeking the highest possible visual fidelity and tracking accuracy, it might be worth investing in a newer VR headset, even if it means a higher initial cost. Weigh the cost difference against the technological advancements offered by newer systems.
What are some tips for maximizing the PSVR experience in 2020, given its limitations?
To maximize your PSVR experience in 2020, start by optimizing your play space. Ensure that you have adequate lighting and that there are no reflective surfaces that could interfere with the PlayStation Camera’s tracking. Minimize clutter in the play area to prevent accidental collisions with furniture or other objects. A well-organized and properly lit play space can significantly improve the accuracy and stability of the tracking system.
Furthermore, experiment with different camera placements to find the optimal position for tracking. Ensure that the camera is at the correct height and distance from your play area, as specified in the PSVR setup guide. Consider using comfortable headphones to enhance the immersion and block out external distractions. Also, take frequent breaks to avoid motion sickness or eye strain. By optimizing your setup and taking precautions, you can mitigate some of the PSVR’s limitations and enjoy a more comfortable and immersive VR experience.