All eyes are now on Sony as we expect to see them reveal their pricing and launch strategy for the PlayStation VR some time soon; Sony are set to launch the headset some time this year, and after the fiasco with Oculus, which was priced at a far too expensive $600 point, people are hoping Sony will have a more affordable value proposition for those looking at an affordable entry point into the medium.
According to this entirely unsubstantiated rumor posted on Reddit, that is exactly what may happen. Now, bear in mind that we report this because it’s our job to bring you all the latest information- but it’s also our job to note when that information may not be the most reliable. This Reddit rumor does not appear to be vetted, and I’m not sure of its veracity. Take it with a liberal dose of salt.
“I spoke to a Sony rep recently (Who is NOT an official spokesman for Sony) that (sic) stated that he had heard rumors they were hoping to price the HMD at $299, which won’t include the camera or PlayStation move controllers,” said Reddit user Sirdomino. But that they would probably have a separate starter kit where you could get the camera and move controllers and a game for around $129. For $428 + tax for the complete PSVR + camera + move controllers, would be a bargain! The reason for this is that a lot of folks already have cameras and move controllers.
“The other thing the Sony rep mentioned is that they were apparently hoping to support the first gen PSVR on the PS5, which should run it even better. This will help stretch the life of the HMD. They will also have a better HMD as well at that time probably. It sounds like Sony is really hoping to build a stable supported VR experience community and wants to carryover the PS4 PSVR users to the PS5 in order to maintain and increase the base.”
The post goes on to note sales numbers for the PlayStation 4 and the PlayStation Move, noting that the wide install base of both may be one reason why there is a standalone SKU for the headset to begin with. Do note, once again, that the post does not pass muster in my opinion- but on the off chance it’s true? Well, now you know.
The PlayStation VR headset is slated to launch later this year.