Playstation VR Release Date and Price: VR Set To Be Released In October At $399

By Jenn Loro - 17 Mar '16 07:50AM

Virtual Reality (VR) is potentially a game-changing factor in the games industry enabling even small studios to catch up with big ones by crafting immersive gaming experiences that cannot be done conventional consoles.

Just this week, Sony has just revealed a number of details about its highly anticipated console peripheral, the PlayStation VR headset due to be released in October for $399. Sony's entry into the growing VR gaming market will pit the games giant against Oculus Rift and HTC Vive.

Although Sony faces stiff competition from other VR device makers, PlayStation VR does not require a thousand-dollar high-end computer. Instead, existing PlayStation 4 users can make use of their existing device and purchase some VR add-ons to create a more expansive and immersive gaming environment at a fraction of a price.

"The most fascinating thing is how VR has rewritten the rulebook of what game design should be. It's leveled the playing field in terms of production values. What has encouraged me is that there's an opportunity for smaller developers with simpler game mechanics that are very well crafted for the VR experience to have more of a significant presence than they would have on a blockbuster console," remarked CEO of Sony Computer Entertainment Andrew House as quoted by The Guardian.

Here are some details that you shouldn't overlook while waiting for PlayStation VR to hit the market later this year.

For $399, Sony's VR device comes with a headset, processor unit, earphones, HDMI cable, USB cable, AC adapter and power cord, and a headset connection adapter. The purchase does not include other peripherals like the PlayStation Camera, Move Controllers, or DualShock according to a report by Time. But players can get the camera for a regular retail price of $59.99 but some online listings offer it for as low as $44. Despite the high cost, PlayStation VR allows existing PS4 users to make use of their console accessories along with easy do-it-yourself steps to enjoy gaming for a lower price than its more expensive counterparts.

Sony's VR gaming device contains 5.7-inch OLED panel, 960x1080 per eye resolution, 120 Hz refresh rate to compensate for the lower resolution, and a 100-degree overall field view as reported by International Business Times.

So far, that's the latest roundup on PlayStation VR. Sony hasn't released an official October date yet for the launching. While PlayStation VR is not at par with either Oculus Rift or HTC Vive in terms of specs, it does make up a lot on accessibility and affordability for mainstream consumers.