The PlayStation VR2 is finally breaking free from its PlayStation 5 roots. Sony’s new $60 adapter allows this $550 VR headset to be compatible with Steam-based VR games on a PC. But before you rush to make a purchase, be aware that there are a few compromises that may detract from the PSVR2’s standout features.
The setup involves connecting the VR2 to a PC with a series of cables. According to the images on PlayStation’s blog, the VR2 needs a direct wired connection to the adapter box, which then links up with the PC via USB and DisplayPort. Additionally, you can hook it up to a monitor to let others watch you tackle challenges like those tricky puzzles in Half-Life: Alyx.
However, there’s a catch. Your PC must have a DisplayPort 1.4 output, and you’ll need a separate DisplayPort cable. The basic system requirements are quite typical, needing at least an Intel Core i5-7600 or AMD Ryzen 3 3100 CPU, 8 GB of RAM, and a graphics card such as an Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650 or an AMD Radeon RX 5500XT. For optimal experience, a more powerful machine is recommended, especially if you want to enjoy games at the 4K quality that the VR2 supports. You’ll also require a Steam account for game access, though any specific Steam VR demands may not be an obstacle for long, thanks to the inventive PC VR community.
In our review, we praised the VR2 for its superb eye tracking and controls, along with its reasonable pricing. Nonetheless, it was somewhat limited by a modest game library available on PlayStation 5. Sony introduced the updated headset prior to Meta’s release of the $500 Meta Quest 3, which features enhanced AR passthrough capabilities and access to exclusive titles. The VR2 boasts impressive in-headset lenses, supporting up to 4K resolutions per eye, with a wide 110-degree field of view.
Despite how promising this sounds, there are notable drawbacks to using the VR2 with a PC. Unfortunately, the eye-tracking feature won’t function, nor will other crucial features like HDR and headset feedback. The controllers are also set to lack the adaptive triggers present in the DualSense controller, along with other advanced haptic feedback apart from basic rumbling. The limited passthrough features still work with PC, primarily to help avoid bumping into obstacles.
The adapter can be found on PlayStation Direct and at various other retailers starting this August. Currently, the VR2 is on sale for $100 off at PlayStation Direct and Best Buy during Sony’s Days of Play sale, which runs through June 13.
Even with the discount, the VR2 still demands a steep investment, especially considering the additional $60 fee to move it beyond Sony’s restrictive PlayStation ecosystem. We’re eager to test it out ourselves to determine if it makes the VR2 compelling for those curious about virtual reality, but the requirements and limitations are definitely a downside.
