PlayStation VR 2: Confirmed: New VR headset is not backward compatible

The new PlayStation VR 2 virtual reality headset is set to be available for the PS5 in early 2023, but those from the previous generation will be disappointed. The new model will not be backward compatible.

Anyone who has already stocked up on all kinds of game fodder on their first PlayStation VR may have played with the idea of ​​being able to enjoy it all on the new PlayStation VR 2 on PS5. But now it is clear: unfortunately, that will not be possible!

Sony has now confirmed that the new PSVR 2 will not be backward compatible when it launches in early 2023. This means that previous generation VR content cannot be played on the device.

The corresponding confirmation came as part of the current PlayStation podcast, with Nideaki Nishino, Senior Vice President of Platform Experience at Sony, commenting on the topic. The reason he brought it there was that PSVR 2 was designed as a “real next-generation virtual reality experience” and thus has significantly more advanced features than the previous generation PSVR. For this reason, game development for PlayStation VR will also require a “different approach” and previous titles cannot easily be ported and played on PSVR 2.

In times when Xbox, above all, made backward compatibility an important feature and Sony was almost pushing for similar approaches on the PS5, that’s certainly disappointing news. The PSVR 2’s more advanced features should definitely include 4K HDR graphics, new consoles, up to 120fps, dual 2000 x 2040 OLED screens as well as a 110-degree field of view, Fresnel lens, and more.