The PlayStation VR2 headset is finally stepping out of its usual PlayStation 5 environment. Sony has introduced a new $60 adapter that enables this $550 VR headset to run with Steam-based VR games on PCs. However, before rushing to make that purchase, there are a few aspects you’ll need to consider — some of which mean losing out on the VR2’s most notable features.
Setting up the adapter involves connecting the VR2 to a PC through multiple cables. According to PlayStation’s blog post, the VR2 needs a wired link to the adapter box. This, in turn, connects to the PC via USB and DisplayPort. Additionally, you can attach a separate connection to a monitor, which might be helpful for those watching you navigate the intricate hacking puzzles in games like Half-Life: Alyx.
There’s a catch, though. Your PC must have a DisplayPort 1.4 output and a separate DisplayPort cable. As for system requirements, they’re about what you’d expect: a minimum of Intel Core i5-7600 or AMD Ryzen 3 3100 CPU, 8 GB of RAM, and at least an Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650 or AMD Radeon RX 5500XT. But honestly, if you’re aiming to enjoy games in the 4K resolution that VR2 supports, you’ll want a more powerful setup. You’ll also need a Steam account to access your game library, though knowing the mod-friendly nature of the PC VR community, any specific Steam VR requirements might not be a hurdle for long.
In our review of the VR2, we found it to be an impressive headset, equipped with excellent eye-tracking and precise controls, all at a competitive price. The downside? It had a limited range of games available on the PlayStation 5. Sony released this enhanced headset before Meta launched the $500 Meta Quest 3, which boasts new passthrough AR features and exclusive game titles. The VR2 does shine with its advanced in-headset lenses, offering up to 4K resolution per eye and a broad 110-degree field of view.
Despite how promising this might sound, taking the VR2 to PC comes with significant drawbacks. For instance, the headset’s eye-tracking won’t function on a PC. Key features like HDR and feedback from the headset itself won’t be accessible either. The controllers will lose the adaptive triggers akin to those on the DualSense controller, and you’ll only get the basic rumble instead of comprehensive haptic feedback. On the upside, the limited passthrough capabilities remain available with PC, primarily to prevent you from bumping into furniture.
You can snag the adapter from PlayStation Direct and other stores starting this August. For now, the VR2 is available with a $100 discount via Direct and Best Buy, part of Sony’s Days of Play sale until June 13.
Still, even when discounted, the VR2 is a considerable investment. If you’re shelling out an extra $60 to break free from Sony’s tightly controlled PlayStation environment, it raises the question of whether it’s finally a good deal for those curious about virtual reality. However, the connection hurdles and feature reductions might put a damper on the excitement.
