If you’re a fan of virtual reality (VR) gaming, you’ve probably heard about the upcoming release of the PSVR 2. It’s the next-generation VR system from Sony. 

With this new VR headset, Sony is also introducing a new set of controllers. They promise to offer a more immersive and intuitive gaming experience. 

If you already own a PS4, you might be wondering whether you can use the new PSVR 2 controllers with your console. Sadly, it’s not possible.

PS4 and VR Compatibility

The original PSVR headset was suitable for the PS4 console. However, the new PSVR 2 headset is for the upcoming PlayStation 5 (PS5) console. This means if you’re a PS4 owner, you won’t be able to use the PSVR 2 headset with your console.

Why Can’t You Use PSVR 2 Controllers with PS4?

The PSVR 2 controllers are incompatible with the PS4 console for several reasons. First, the new controllers use a different tracking system called inside-out tracking. This is different from the outside-in tracking used by the original PSVR system. 

It means that the new controllers will not work with the existing PSVR camera. The first gen PSVR camera tracks the movement of the older PS Move controllers.

Additionally, the PSVR 2 controllers have several new features unavailable on the PS4, such as haptic feedback and adaptive triggers. These features rely on the more powerful hardware of the PS5 console and are not supported by the PS4.

What are Inside-Out Tracking and Outside-In Tracking?

Inside-out tracking and outside-in tracking are two different methods of tracking the movement of VR controllers. Outside-in tracking involves placing cameras around the play area to track the position of the controllers. 

In contrast, inside-out tracking uses sensors on the controllers themselves to track their position in relation to the player’s head and body.

Inside-out tracking has several advantages over outside-in tracking, including greater freedom of movement, simpler setup, and better accuracy. However, it requires more processing power and can be more expensive to implement.

What Can You Do With PSVR 2 Controllers?

One of the most exciting new features is haptic feedback. It allows the controller to provide physical sensations to the player’s hands. This simulates the feeling of different surfaces or textures. Alternatively, it moves when the player interacts with objects in the game.

The PSVR 2 controllers feature adaptive triggers. You'll get different resistances depending on the action being performed. For instance, pulling a bowstring might require more force than pressing a button. Adaptive triggers can simulate this difference in resistance.

The new controllers feature finger touch detection. These can detect when the player is touching or releasing a button and where the touch is occurring on the button. This can allow for more precise and intuitive control in games that require complex hand movements.

What is the Future of PSVR on PS4?

While the PSVR 2 headset and controllers may not be compatible with the PS4 console, there is still a future for virtual reality gaming on PS4. Many game developers are still creating VR games for the original PSVR headset, and there is a growing library of games that you can play on PS4.

Conclusion

The PSVR 2 controllers are incompatible with the PS4 due to differences in tracking technology and hardware requirements. 

While this may be disappointing news for PS4 owners, there are still plenty of exciting features, including haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and finger touch detection. 

Whether you’re a die-hard VR enthusiast or just starting with virtual reality, the PSVR 2 offers an even more immersive and intuitive gaming experience.

About the Author

Kevin Pocock

Kevin has a broad interest and enthusiasm for consumer electronics, PCs, and all things consumer tech. And more than 17 years experience in tech journalism.