In recent weeks, we’ve thoroughly evaluated Sony’s new hardware, designed as a gaming companion for the PS4, alongside its launch titles. We now present our comprehensive review of PlayStation VR. Is this the virtual reality revolution we’ve anticipated for two decades?
Two and a half years ago, we chronicled the virtual reality revolution that initially faltered, coinciding with Facebook’s acquisition of Oculus Rift. Today, HTC Vive, Oculus Rift, and Sony’s Playstation VR are available, each offering VR headsets intended to immerse us in virtual gaming from the comfort of our homes. Sony has cultivated anticipation with “Project Morpheus” for approximately two years. The final product, Playstation VR (hereafter PS VR), launched on October 13, 2016. This VR headset is compatible with existing and future PlayStation 4 models, and is positioned at a competitive price point. Sony has achieved an impressive technical feat: delivering a VR experience on a console already three years into its lifecycle. However, this accomplishment involves certain compromises.
Plug & Play
With over 40 million PS4 users, Sony has a significant existing market for PS VR. At launch, a limited number of PS VR units were manufactured and quickly sold out. Similar to the PS4’s launch, Sony anticipates a supply stabilization period of 4-6 months, with projected sales of three million units by year’s end. The PS VR package includes a stylish VR headset that is surprisingly lightweight (despite its stated 610 grams). In our assessment, it’s the most comfortable VR headset among those we’ve tested. An easily adjustable button allows users to slide the visor for optimal positioning. Members of our team who wear eyeglasses found it comfortable to use with the headset, which is not always the case with VR headsets. The headset effectively blocks external light through a smooth, moldable rubber that adapts to the face, creating a tight seal. Some female writers noted challenges with makeup, specifically powder adhering to the rubber and occasional smearing of mascara on the lenses. A soft microfiber cloth is included for cleaning. The package also contains an external box that, while not providing additional processing or graphics capabilities, handles 3D audio, spatial calculations, and a second (“social”) screen mirroring the VR experience on the TV. This box connects to the PS4 via HDMI. A pair of adequate in-ear headphones with simulated surround sound, which plug into the headset’s remote, are included. Users may choose to substitute these with higher-quality, noise-canceling headphones for enhanced immersion. Furthermore, the package includes a significant number of cables for connections, including power, and for extending play distance. A demo disc offering brief previews of VR games is also provided. The setup process is straightforward and user-friendly. Upon initial installation, a virtual guide assists in fine-tuning the field of view, sharpness, and other settings.
Prepare to bundle cables – PS VR can easily lead to cable clutter.
The Technology and the Experience
The initial impression of PSVR is favorable, showcasing Sony’s engineering capabilities. The experience in many games is immersive and engaging. The VR headset incorporates a 5.7″ LCD panel with a 120Hz refresh rate and a resolution of 960×1080 pixels per eye, providing approximately a 100-degree field of view. In terms of technical specifications, PSVR lags slightly behind HTC Vive, Oculus, and Samsung’s Gear VR, which offer higher resolution and wider fields of view. A slight “peeking effect” is noticeable due to the PSVR’s somewhat narrow 100-degree field of view, but it isn’t overly distracting. While specifications provide useful data, they don’t fully convey the actual look and feel of the games. PSVR generally impresses, despite some compromises in the final product.
The fluidity in the games is generally commendable, with most titles achieving a minimum of 60 fps. Through technical optimizations, some games reach up to 90 fps, both of which are divisible by the panel’s 120Hz refresh rate. Hardware and software enhancements, including supersampling and anti-aliasing, contribute to a visually appealing experience. However, graphical limitations exist, such as low-resolution objects, artifacts, and jagged edges that may appear during head movements.
Neither the camera (which is required) nor PlayStation Move controllers (which are recommended) are included in the PS VR package
The Playstation 4 camera (a necessity) accurately tracks head movements using the headset’s blue-lit tracking lights, gyroscope, and accelerometer. A common issue was drifting out of the designated play area, requiring positional adjustments. Many games are best experienced while seated or positioned forward on a couch, ensuring the camera maintains tracking. Playstation Move controllers (sold separately) enhance immersion in titles like Arkham VR and London Heist, where virtual hands are visible. While generally functional, the aging technology lacks the precision found in systems like the HTC Vive.
The Games
PSVR’s rendering techniques effectively minimize the screen-door effect, which is present in some competing VR systems. However, the fast and smooth image processing can induce motion sickness in some users. Fast-paced games, where the body doesn’t synchronize with the visual input, caused discomfort among our team. After a few laps in DriveClub VR, downhill skiing in VR Luge, or exploring Croft Manor in VR mode within Rise of The Tomb Raider, motion sickness was frequently reported. Games with moderate movement, such as Batman Arkham VR and the atmospheric Ocean Descent (featured in Playstation VR Worlds), provided engaging and immersive experiences. We also enjoyed London Heist (also on VR Worlds), which effectively utilized Move controllers for hand-based actions (loading and shooting) and head movements (leaning out of a car to engage enemies). Graphically, however, the game is reminiscent of early PS3 titles.
A significant drawback for European customers is the absence of an included game with the PSVR kit. All packages include only a demo disc with short tech demos. While the US Starter Pack includes Playstation VR Worlds or a demo disc with 17 demos (some, such as the Resident Evil 7 demo, are available for free download on the PSN Store), Sony’s decision to exclude a full game is disappointing. Including Playstation VR Worlds, a first-party title, would have been a valuable addition. As it stands, it requires an additional purchase.
Approximately 20 games are currently available for PS VR. This review will be updated with additional game assessments as they become available. Our initial impressions of some titles are as follows:
Batman Arkham VR
Seeing yourself in the mirror as Batman is a remarkable experience!
Rocksteady’s Batman games have successfully captured the essence of the character. Being Batman in first-person mode elevates the experience. In this iteration, players see their reflection in the mirror, mirroring hand movements. Ascending to a rooftop overlooking Gotham City evokes a sense of immersion. Arkham VR is a short experience (approximately one hour), but it effectively showcases the potential of VR in general and PS VR in particular. It is a worthwhile investment for experiencing VR’s capabilities.
Battlezone
This tank warfare game places you within the cockpit. Atari’s shooter provides co-op and engaging action, combined with a simple, stylish neon aesthetic reminiscent of TRON. While somewhat overpriced, it’s worth considering when available at a lower price. A patch for PS4 Pro enhances fluidity with an improved frame rate. (500 SEK, PSN Store)
Driveclub
The original Driveclub generated considerable anticipation but failed to meet expectations upon its PS4 release. Updates have since improved the game and fostered a community, supported by Sony while awaiting the arrival of Gran Turismo. Driveclub VR could have been a beneficial add-on, expanding the base game’s audience. Instead, it is a standalone title with reduced content and a VR mode that places the player in the driver’s seat. The experience is immersive and more engaging than the 2D version, though several members of our team experienced motion sickness. The pricing is excessive, given that it should have been a free or discounted offering for existing Driveclub owners.
EVE Valkyrie
This title provides a VR rendition of what Wing Commander might be today. This space simulator strikes a balance between freedom of movement and dogfighting in space, minimizing motion sickness. Although the price is high, the game is worth considering for fans of the genre. It can also be played without the VR headset. Price 549 SEK (PSN Store, demo included on the disc)
Here They Lie
Horror is a popular VR genre. Here They Lie offers a David Lynch-esque tone and aesthetic. While not the most visually advanced VR game on PS VR, it features a compelling concept that relies on unease and suspense. It is recommended for those seeking a unique and unsettling gaming experience. (199 SEK, PSN store)
Job Simulator
This indie title, also available on HTC Vive, simulates various jobs with humor and full VR interaction. While the price is somewhat high, it is worth considering at a reduced price. (299 SEK, PSN Store)
Playstation VR Worlds
This collection from Sony’s London Studios showcases PS VR’s potential. It includes an underwater cage simulator (with shark attacks!) in Ocean Descent, an action story with a car chase in London Heist, the motion sickness-inducing VR Luge, Danger Ball (a futuristic breakout game), and Scavenger’s Oddysey (a space shooter). Despite feeling like a tech demo, Playstation VR Worlds offers compelling VR experiences. This should be included in all PS VR packages. Charging an additional fee from EU customers is not ideal. (Demo included on the disc – for the first three games)
Resident Evil 7 (teaser)
This demo offers a preview of the upcoming Resident Evil 7, signaling a return to the series’ horror roots. In Beginning Hour, the DualShock controller is used for movement, with the VR headset functioning as a large display. This eliminates motion sickness but provides a less immersive VR experience. Kitchen, a short but intense VR demo, offers a terrifying experience. (released 2017, both demos are free on PSN)
RIGS – Mechanized Combat League
This futuristic sports game, controlled in FPS mode, involves eliminating opponents and scoring goals. While reminiscent of Overwatch, the implementation feels lacking, and the game’s lifespan is questionable. The price is also high. (Demo is on disc)
REZ Infinite
Lawnmower Man-VR?
This classic game, originally released on the SEGA Dreamcast, is a standout VR title. REZ Infinite is immersive due to its simple design, excellent soundtrack, and accessible gameplay. It’s a short but compelling experience. A must-have! (269 SEK, PSN Store)
Thumper
Thumper is a rhythmic, music-horror game. You control a metallic insect on a rail, defeating enemies by pressing buttons in time. It starts calmly but quickly becomes intense. A must-have! (199 SEK, PSN Store)
Tumble VR
For those seeking a break from horror and intense VR experiences, Tumble VR is a virtual pick-up-sticks game. Players build towers from geometric blocks using Move controllers or the Dual Shock. It is a meditative experience at a low price. (79 SEK, PSN, Demo included on the disc)
Until Dawn: Rush of Blood
This rail shooter, set in the same universe as Until Dawn, provides a bloody and intense ride. While not exceptionally scary, it contains violent content. It is well-suited for use with PS Move. The game is short but fun, although some sections feature low-resolution graphics. Price 199 SEK (PSN Store, demo available for download)
Wayward Sky
This simple point-and-click adventure offers some charm. However, the genre has more potential than this title delivers. (about 169 SEK, currently only available on PSN Store UK or US, demo is on the disc)
This review will be updated with new games released through the end of the year (including Crytek’s Robinson – The Journey, Eagle Flight, and Star Trek).
Other programs / apps
Allumette
This touching stop-motion film tells the story of Allumette in a city among the clouds. It combines a 3D feel with claymation aesthetics and is worth watching. It’s available as a free download from the
