Several core features for the PS5Â were detailed today as the official PlayStation support website was updated. Features including backward compatibility with the PS4 and accessory compatibility have been expanded on. Also touched on is PSVR, a subject that Sony has notably avoided this year. The good news is that PSVR will continue to be supported on the PS5 and that the headset works with the new console. However, there is a rather notable catch.
According to the official details for PSVR on PS5, the PSVR headset and the breakout box required to connect the headset to the PS5 both work without complication. The one sticky issue will be the camera, which is required to use PSVR because it's necessary for tracking both the headset and the Move controllers. However, the PS4 camera won't inherently work with the PS5, as PSVR users will have to acquire an adapter. Release and pricing information for this adapter has not been made available yet.
Some might be thinking that the best option would be to forgo buying an adapter to bring the PS4 camera to the PS5. Unfortunately, that won't work either. Sony's confirmed that the official PS5 camera will not support the PlayStation VR, though it's unclear why this is the case. It's possible that the PS5 camera utilizes some new technology or that it forgoes some past technology. Regardless, Sony's confirmed that it won't work.
As such, PSVR users have a choice to make. They can either continue using their PS4 in order to use their PSVR, or they can wait for more information about the PS4 camera adapter and then pick that up so that they can use PSVR on the PS5.
Another option open to those willing to wait is the possibility of a PSVR 2 eventually being released specifically for PS5. That comes with its own issues, of course, like what sort of backward compatibility it would offer. Nevertheless, it's worth considering. There are a variety of rumors and even Sony patents hinting a second PSVR headset is on the way, though nothing has been officially confirmed.
Speaking of backward compatibility, earlier today Sony confirmed that the vast majority of PS4 games will work in PS5, including PSVR titles. No PSVR titles have yet to be confirmed as incompatible with the PS5 yet, but it's definitely a possibility. If Sony's saying backward compatibility is fine this close to launch, though, PSVR users should feel comfortable in bringing over their game library to the PS5.
The PS5 releases November 12.
