The Biggest Games of 2023 – PlayStation VR2
Release Date: 02.22.23
Sony’s long-awaited next-generation virtual reality headset is starting 2023 with a bang. The PlayStation VR2, which runs exclusively on the PlayStation 5, includes the most obvious upgrades, of course. With two 2000×2040 OLED displays, the new headset can deliver 4K visuals at up to 120 frames per second with support for HDR. (That’s quadruple the resolution of the original PS VR.)
But the PS VR2’s innovations go far beyond prettier graphics. The headset supports eye-tracking, and developers can make use of that technology with a technique called “foveated rendering,” which brings out greater detail in the areas of the image you’re focused on. Features like inside-out tracking (no more need for a separate camera), a customizable play area, and a pass-through camera make it even easier to set up and use a play space in your home, since the headset can now warn you if you’re about to bump into something.
The new Sense controllers promise to up the immersion even further, borrowing elements of the PlayStation 5’s DualSense like adaptive triggers and advanced haptic feedback (aka rumble). As if that wasn’t enough, Sony also added haptic feedback to the headset itself, meaning developers can use subtle vibrations to create even more detailed effects. The Sense controllers also support finger tracking—even when you’re not pressing a button. Plus, the bespoke grip design on the Sense should prove more comfortable for long play sessions than the repurposed Move controllers of the original PS VR.
All in all, the PS VR2 looks like a serious upgrade and proof that Sony continues to push the envelope when it comes to making virtual reality mainstream.
PSVR 2 Games
Of course, gaming hardware is useless without games to play on it. No need to worry, though: Sony is already promising a robust lineup of titles for the PlayStation VR2, many launching alongside the headset. We’ve spotlighted a few of the entirely original games coming to the device below, but early adopters will also be able to enjoy some games making the jump from other VR headsets—like Star Wars: Tales from the Galaxy’s Edge and Resident Evil 4—and remastered or expanded versions of games for the original PS VR—like the two Moss games and Firewall Ultra.
Horizon Call of the Mountain
Publisher: Sony Interactive Entertainment
Developer: Guerrilla Games
Release Date: 02.22.23
A spin-off set in the post-post-apocalyptic, robot-filled, tribal world of Horizon Zero Dawn and Forbidden West, Call of the Mountain follows new protagonist Ryas, a disgraced former member of the Carja tribe seeking redemption. Battling many of the iconic robotic beasts from the immersive first-person perspective of VR should offer a thrilling and very different Horizon experience.
The Dark Pictures: Switchback VR
Publisher: Supermassive Games
Developer: Supermassive Games
Release Date: 03.16.23
You may recall that when the original PlayStation VR launched, Supermassive Games delivered a roller-coaster-based rail shooter spin-off of its popular horror game, Until Dawn. For the PS VR2 launch, Supermassive has a roller-coaster-based rail-shooter spin-off of its popular horror anthology, The Dark Pictures. Time is a flat circle. Expect to blast away at a horrifying greatest-hits compilation of baddies from season one of the series.
Hello Neighbor: Search and Rescue
Publisher: tinyBuild Games
Developer: tinyBuild Games, Steel Wool Studios
Release Date: 02.22.2023
Like the other Hello Neighbor games, Search and Rescue is all about sneaking your way into your creepy neighbor’s basement. In addition to making the jump to VR, this spin-off also innovates by letting you swap on the fly between different characters, using multiple perspectives to solve puzzles, all while being careful to avoid the AI-controlled Mr. Peterson.
Crossfire: Sierra Squad
Publisher: Smilegate
Developer: Smilegate
Release Date: TBD 2023
If you’re looking for your next VR military shooter, Crossfire: Sierra Squad may scratch that itch—though you’ll have to be a bit patient, as this is the one game we’re highlighting that didn’t launch right in the headset’s release window. With 39 different weapons, 60 campaign missions, and co-op support for up to four-players, Sierra Squad is promising a robust FPS experience.
