The PlayStation VR2 headset is finally breaking free from its PlayStation 5 exclusivity. Sony has introduced a $60 adapter that allows this $550 VR headset to be used with any of their Steam-supported VR games. However, before you rush to buy it, there are some compromises to consider when switching the VR2 to a PC setup, and a few of these can diminish some of the PSVR2’s standout features.
To connect the VR2 to a PC, you’ll need to use several cables. According to images shared in PlayStation’s blog post, the VR2 requires a wired link to an adapter box. This box then connects to your PC via USB and DisplayPort. There’s also an optional connection for hooking it up to a monitor, which could be handy if you want to let someone watch as you navigate the tricky hacking puzzles in Half-Life: Alyx.
It’s important to note that your PC must have a DisplayPort 1.4 output and an extra DisplayPort cable. Beyond that, the basic system specs align with what you’d expect: at least an Intel Core i5-7600 or AMD Ryzen 3 3100 CPU, 8 GB of RAM, and a Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650 or an AMD Radeon RX 5500XT graphics card. However, you’ll likely need a more powerful setup if you aim to hit the 4K resolution standards the VR2 supports. Don’t forget, a Steam account is required to access your games. While there might be some Steam VR-specific requirements, it’s likely just a matter of time before the ever-resourceful PC VR modding community finds a workaround.
In our review, we found the VR2 to be a solid headset with outstanding eye tracking, superb controls, and a reasonable price tag. Its primary drawback was the somewhat limited game selection available on the PlayStation 5. This updated headset launched before Meta unveiled the $500 Meta Quest 3, which boasts improved passthrough AR capabilities and a host of exclusive titles. Still, the VR2 shines with its impressive in-headset lenses that support up to 4K resolution per eye and offer a 110-degree field of view.
Despite the promising possibilities, taking the VR2 to a PC environment has notable limitations. For instance, the headset’s eye-tracking feature won’t be functional on a PC. You’ll also lose out on perks like HDR and the headset’s feedback capabilities. The controllers will not have adaptive triggers like the DualSense controller, and additional haptic feedback beyond basic rumbling won’t be available. Limited passthrough features will still function on a PC, primarily aiding in preventing accidental stumbles over furniture.
Expect the adapter to hit PlayStation Direct and other retail outlets in August. Currently, the VR2 is $100 off through Direct and Best Buy, thanks to Sony’s Days of Play sale until June 13.
Even with the discount, the VR2 remains a significant investment, especially considering the additional $60 to free the headset from Sony’s restrictive PlayStation framework. We’re eager to get hands-on with it to determine if it genuinely makes the VR2 a worthwhile purchase for those curious about virtual reality. However, the connection needs and downsized features might dampen the enthusiasm.
