Bad news for those looking to get their hands on the latest and greatest VR headset for their new PS5. According to a new leak, Sony doesn’t plan to launch the PSVR2 headset until early 2023.
The new leak comes courtesy of YouTuber PSVR Without Parole, who previously leaked specs for the PSVR2 and details for the upcoming VR spinoff Horizon Call of the Mountain. Sources speaking to PSVR Without Parole said that the PSVR2 won’t be coming until Q1 2023 in part due to the global chip shortage must mostly because there just aren’t enough PS5s out there.
While the PSVR2 will boast impressive specs that might even let it compete with the latest and greatest VR headsets out there, the fact that the PSVR2 requires a PS5 to function makes it essentially a glorified console accessory. Sony has been selling PS5s as quickly as they can make them, but the global chip shortage has prevented them from selling as many as they’d like. There are still millions of potential buyers out there that would get a PS5 if they could, but the console is still chronically out of stock at many retailers.
By delaying the PSVR2 to 2023, Sony is hoping to maximize the PS5 install base that might also be interested in VR. This also provides additional time for Sony to build up a library of VR titles that will make use of the PSVR2's advanced tech, like its twin 4K HDR screens.
Coincidentally, 2023 is also the year which Intel thinks the chip shortage will finally start getting better. At this point, we can only hope.
In the meantime, Sony isn't making more PS4s to cover for the PS5 shortage, but they are still making as many PS4s as they were going to be anyway. So if you really want a new PS4, you can get one of those at least.