PlayStation Reveals New Virtual Reality Controllers With Updated Features

PlayStation and Sony have kicked on in 2021 following the hugely successful release of the PlayStation 5 last November.

Competing with Microsoft's new additions to the console library, Xbox Series X and Series S, the next-generation system has flown off the shelves, with demand remaining high and stocks remaining low. The term 'PlayStation 5' even made it to the list of top ten most searched phrases on Google in 2020 , the same list which saw an absence of Microsoft consoles.

It was revealed last month that Sony is working on a new iteration of its hugely popular PS VR system , with the updated accessory set to “enhance everything” by utilizing the features of the PlayStation 5.

Updated resolution, new field-of-view options, and a single-cord setup were all revealed in the post on PlayStation.Blog last month, and now, a first look at the new controllers has been unveiled.

FIRST LOOK AT NEXT-GEN VR CONTROLLERS

PlayStation.Blog revealed a number of screenshots showcasing the brand-new version of PlayStation's VR controllers.

Following a post last month which revealed a number of new additions to the system , numerous features have now been announced for the next-generation adaption of PS VR:

"Adaptive triggers: Each VR controller (Left and Right) includes an adaptive trigger button that adds palpable tension when pressed, similar to what’s found in the DualSense controller. If you’ve played a PS5 game, you’ll be familiar with the tension in the L2 or R2 buttons when you press them, such as when you’re drawing your bow to fire an arrow. When you take that kind of mechanic and apply it to VR, the experience is amplified to the next level.

Haptic feedback: The new controller will have haptic feedback optimized for its form factor, making every sensation in the game world more impactful, textured and nuanced. When you’re traversing through rocky desert or trading blows in melee combat, you’ll feel the difference, magnifying the extraordinary visual and audio experience that’s so central to VR.

Finger touch detection: The controller can detect your fingers without any pressing in the areas where you place your thumb, index, or middle fingers. This enables you to make more natural gestures with your hands during gameplay.

Tracking: The VR controller is tracked by the new VR headset through a tracking ring across the bottom of the controller.

Action buttons/analog sticks: The Left controller contains one analog stick, the triangle and square buttons, a “grip” button (L1), trigger button (L2) and Create button. The Right controller contains one analog stick, the cross and circle buttons, a “grip” button (R1), trigger button (R2) and Options button. The “grip” button can be used to pick up in-game objects, as one example."

The post also showcased multiple new screenshots giving fans a first glance at the new PS VR controllers, the first of which highlights the controllers new 'orb design', intended to increase comfort in longer sessions of play.

The next screenshot shows the 'Right-Hand' controller up-close, with PlayStation's iconic X and O buttons clear to see as well as the system logo.

The last screenshot gives a broader look at one of the controllers, potentially showcasing the new haptic feedback inclusions for the system.

THE FUTURE FOR VR LOOKS BRIGHT

PlayStation has never been shy about its passion for virtual reality, and this latest update only further cements that notion.

While VR has always teased to form the future for video games, a majority of casual gamers prefer the standard experience with a game-pad in hand and playing the games they enjoy. For someone who isn't necessarily interested in changing their style of gaming, virtual reality is a hard product to sell. There's no denying, however, that there are millions of gamers who are invested in virtual reality, and they are sure to be excited about these new additions.

It's unsurprising that PlayStation has included its brilliant adaptive triggers to the new controllers, given the feedback received from PlayStation 5 owners when experiencing the technology on the brand-new DualSense controller. The finger detection system is also an interesting addition that seems to allow VR to feel more natural to a player, possibly removing the awkward hand movements seen in a majority of systems at the moment.

It's likely that virtual reality will eventually be the main player in the video game industry, so Sony's continuous support for PS VR is showing its desire for it to succeed. Rumors began to flow this week when an error message on Xbox consoles pointed toward future support of VR on Microsoft consoles , so the reveal of PlayStation's new controllers seems quite convenient.

With the new headset yet to be revealed, fans will be excited for what the future may hold for virtual reality on PlayStation systems.