Sony has given the PSVR2 a new lease on life by adding PC VR support this week. This move allows owners of the second-generation headset to play PC VR games like Half-Life: Alyx, provided they purchase the $60 PC adapter. However, some users have reported that they managed to get their headset working on their gaming PC without buying the adapter.
According to RoadToVR, several Steam users have shared that they were able to get the PSVR2 up and running on their gaming PC without the adapter by simply connecting the PSVR2’s USB-C cable directly to their graphics card and downloading the PSVR2 Steam App. This bypass is made possible thanks to VirtualLink, a type of USB-C port found on some GPUs. VirtualLink was designed to streamline the setup process for VR headsets on gaming PCs by powering everything through a single USB-C cable.
Unfortunately, VirtualLink became obsolete after a few years, despite initial reports in 2018 and 2019 indicating that it would become a new standard in graphics cards. This means that newer GPUs, such as the GeForce RTX 30 and 40 series, do not have VirtualLink. However, some GPUs, like the RTX 2060 Super, still include this port.
As reported by UploadVR in March 2019, even some GPUs with VirtualLink may still need to include it. For example, only the Founder’s Edition and one OEM partner card of the RTX 2060 series included the port. Those with a PSVR2 and a GPU with a VirtualLink port can save themselves $60 if they plan to use their PSVR2 for PC VR gaming. However, Bluetooth connectivity may be an issue without the adapter, as some users have reported difficulties pairing the PSVR2’s Sense Controllers with their computers.
The PSVR2 was launched last year with impressive technical specs but seemed to lose momentum following its release. In June, Sony reportedly made significant cuts to funding for VR, with only two first-party PSVR2 games allegedly in development. Despite this, the addition of PC VR support is a positive development for the second-generation PlayStation VR headset. It allows users to access games that were previously unavailable on PSVR, PSVR2, or even the Meta Quest store, such as Half-Life: Alyx. However, some of the PSVR2’s signature features, like headset feedback and eye tracking, are not available when playing on PC.
In conclusion, the addition of PC VR support for the PSVR2 is a welcome enhancement for owners of the second-generation headset. While the $60 PC adapter is an option for those without a VirtualLink port on their GPU, some users have found success in connecting their PSVR2 directly to their graphics card. This development opens up a new world of gaming possibilities for PSVR2 owners, allowing them to enjoy a wider range of VR experiences on their gaming PCs.