New PlayStation VR2 to PC Adapter May Limit Key Headset Features

The PlayStation VR2 headset is finally breaking free from its PlayStation 5 exclusivity. Sony has introduced a $60 adapter that allows your $550 VR headset to function with any of their Steam-based VR games. Before you rush to make the purchase, however, there are a few considerations to keep in mind that might affect the VR2 experience when used with a PC.

To connect the VR2 to your computer, the setup involves a series of cables. As detailed in PlayStation’s blog, the VR2 needs to be plugged into an adapter box, which then links to your PC via USB and DisplayPort. Additionally, there’s the option to connect another cable to a monitor, which could be useful if you have an audience eager to watch you navigate through complicated puzzles in games like Half-Life: Alyx.

It’s important to note that you’ll need a PC with a DisplayPort 1.4 output, plus a separate DisplayPort cable. The minimum system requirements are about standard, asking for at least an Intel Core i5-7600 or AMD Ryzen 3 3100 CPU, 8 GB of RAM, and a graphics card that’s no less powerful than an Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650 or an AMD Radeon RX 5500XT. For the full 4K experience, a more robust setup is recommended. Sony also mentions that you’ll need a Steam account for game access, though any specific Steam VR requirements may be bypassed soon, thanks to the ever-innovative modding community in PC VR.

In our review, the VR2 stood out as an exceptional headset, boasting fantastic eye tracking and intuitive controls, all at a reasonable price. Its main drawback was the limited game library available on the PlayStation 5 platform. Sony rolled out this updated headset ahead of Meta’s $500 Meta Quest 3 release, which features upgraded passthrough AR capabilities and a collection of exclusive titles. The VR2 is equipped with impressive in-headset lenses, delivering up to 4K resolutions per eye, and offers a broad 110-degree field of view.

Yet, there’s a catch—several major compromises come with using the VR2 on a PC. Unfortunately, key features like eye-tracking won’t function on a PC setup. Plus, other essential elements such as HDR and headset feedback are unavailable. The controllers also lose the adaptive triggers akin to those on the DualSense controller, along with other intricate haptic feedback, aside from the basic rumble feature. While limited passthrough functionality remains operational, it’s primarily to help prevent mishaps with nearby furniture.

Look for the adapter to hit PlayStation Direct and other retailers come August. Meanwhile, the VR2 is currently enjoying a $100 discount on Direct and at Best Buy during Sony’s Days of Play sale, which wraps up on June 13.

Even with these savings, the VR2 represents a significant investment, particularly if you’re paying an extra $60 to detach it from Sony’s PlayStation ecosystem. Hands-on testing will ultimately reveal if this adapter makes the VR2 a worthy purchase for those curious about virtual reality, but the connection hurdles and feature cuts certainly dampen the enthusiasm.