Sony's PlayStation VR2 Faces Budget Cuts and Game Limitations

Sony Faces Challenges with PlayStation VR2 Development

Sony's PlayStation VR2 is reportedly encountering obstacles, with budget cuts impacting VR and game development. The company is said to be scaling back VR investments, leading to limited PSVR2 game development and the absence of first-party VR game announcements at their recent State of Play event.

Despite these challenges, Sony has not completely abandoned the VR sector. They have introduced a $60 adapter to connect the PSVR2 headset to PCs, although some features won't function when connected.

Moreover, the studio behind the Astro series, Team Asobi, confirmed that their new game, Astro Bot, will not support PlayStation VR2, emphasizing their focus on the PS5. Conversely, Skydance Games is developing Behemoth, a promising VR title that blends elements of Skyrim and Shadow of the Colossus, providing a ray of hope for VR's future.

Key Takeaways

• Sony reportedly slashing VR budgets, with only two PSVR2 games in development.
• No first-party VR games announced at PlayStation's recent State of Play.
• Team Asobi confirms no VR support for upcoming Astro Bot game.
• Sony introduces a PC adapter for PSVR2, but many features won't work on PC.
• Behemoth, a VR game blending Skyrim and Shadow of the Colossus, set for release on multiple platforms.

Analysis

Sony's scaling back of VR investments could stifle innovation in VR gaming and disappoint VR enthusiasts, potentially slowing market growth. However, the introduction of a PC adapter for PSVR2 might broaden its user base, albeit with reduced experience quality. The absence of first-party VR titles and industry hesitance towards VR highlight the challenges in the VR sector. Yet, titles like Skydance's Behemoth offer hope for VR's future, indicating that quality content remains a driver for platform adoption.

Did You Know?

• State of Play: A digital event held by PlayStation to showcase upcoming games and updates.
• Team Asobi: A game development studio under Sony Interactive Entertainment, known for their work on the Astro series.
• Behemoth (VR game): A virtual reality game under development by Skydance Games, characterized by its dark fantasy setting and gameplay involving battling giant creatures.