Can Xbox Compete with PSVR in Virtual Reality?
The war of Xbox against PlayStation is as old as time, or at the very least, similar to the Xbox One against PS4 debates. However, with the advent of VR (VR) making video games to an entirely new level, an issue is looming large: can Xbox keep its position against the well-established PlayStation VR (PSVR)? Let’s look at it and have a good laugh and find out whether Microsoft is prepared to put on some VR glasses and join the arena.
Xbox and VR: A Mysterious Affair
The Microsoft approach to VR is classified as… complex. In contrast to Sony that jumped into VR completely using PSVR and its brand-new PSVR 2, Xbox seems more intent on avoiding the whole idea. Sure there’s the Xbox Series X, which is a mighty piece of hardware Xbox Cloud Gaming that’s pushing boundaries, but neither appears to be able to offer a VR headset on the horizon.
It’s like Xbox is a partner who claims that they’re “too busy” for the gym, while Sony’s sporting six-pack abs in the virtual real-world.
Why Xbox Should Care About VR
This VR market isn’t a fad that’s passing by, it’s actually a growth opportunity. PSVR 2 is a game that PSVR 2 is turning heads with titles such as Horizon Call of the Mountain and Gran Turismo VR, immersing gamers in breathtaking scenery and racing at high speeds.
In the meantime, think of VR possibilities with Xbox. You can pilot Microsoft Flight Simulator with a VR headset? Are you playing Minecraft in the first-person block mode? Xbox is the perfect gaming hardware (Xbox Series S, Series X perhaps?) as well as a growing library of Xbox Exclusive games, which are able to be a hit in virtual worlds.
It is possible that the Xbox Game Pass model could also be a major factor in VR. Imagine getting access to the most recent Xbox games in VR with an annual subscription. You don’t need to borrow money from your home for a VR headset and games bundle.
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The Catch: Xbox’s VR Hesitation
Despite its potential, Microsoft has been cautious in its approach, with Xbox director Phil Spencer repeatedly stating VR isn’t their top priority. Spencer once said VR isn’t compatible with the notion of gaming at home in the living room. It’s true that VR can be uncomfortable when you fall on your table while swinging the sword.
However, is this delay costing Xbox? Since PSVR 2 from Sony PSVR 2 is already flexing in the market, and Meta Quest carving its niche, Xbox is running the possibility of not joining the VR train completely. It’s like taking the water gun for a laser-tag game.
The Cloud Factor
The one area where Xbox has a secret weapon is the focus it has upon Xbox Cloud Gaming. Although it doesn’t support VR headsets at present cloud gaming is a possibility to revolutionize how gamers have access to VR. Why would you need to purchase an Xbox headset to stream games to your existing devices using the Xbox application? If done correctly, Xbox could bypass hardware battles and still be able to win this VR race.
Can Xbox Catch Up?
At the moment, Xbox has the resources in terms of the platform, resources, and the community to compete with PSVR. However, it must want it. With the upcoming Xbox game announcements, and possibly advancements in Xbox hardware announcements, Microsoft could take a leap. But the clock is running out, which is why Sony has already put up the VR flag with conviction.
If Xbox finally decides to enter VR and VR-like technology, it has the potential to become an important game changer. However, for now it’s just like the idea of bringing the Xbox 360 controller to a PS5 party. It’s still amazing, but certainly not keeping up with technology.
FAQ
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Xbox has been cautious about entering the VR market. While PlayStation fully embraced VR through its PSVR and PSVR 2, Xbox has focused on cloud gaming and traditional gaming setups. Xbox head Phil Spencer has mentioned that VR doesn’t align with the concept of home living room gaming and has stated it isn’t a top priority for the company.
