Did you watch Sony Interactive Entertainment’s (SIE) PlayStation Showcase? What did you think? Because from where we were sitting as VR fans, it felt a bit underwhelming. PSVR 2 was never going to be the main event at the PlayStation Showcase but even so, what we hoped to see, ne what we needed to see fell well short of expectations. Were they too high? Maybe. However, with the amount of PSVR 2 games coming soon suggested a stronger lineup.
PSVR 2 at the PlayStation Showcase
Before the event took place XR Source what the PlayStation Showcase for PSVR 2 might bring. Out of everything we got one prediction right, the VR mode for Resident Evil 4 Remake. Capcom showed off the first gameplay footage from the VR mode, giving a first-person viewpoint and once again confirming it’ll be free DLC when it arrives. No date yet though.
It does look stunning, and there were a couple of gameplay hints, such as being able to use a knife to block incoming attacks. You can also dual-wield, popping bullets in heads with one hand and defending with the other. This could very well be the definite version of the game.
PSVR 2 Surprises
But we already knew Resident Evil 4 Remake was coming. The two real highlights from the showcase were a couple of sequels; Five Nights at Freddy’s: Help Wanted 2 and Arizona Sunshine 2.
The original Five Nights at Freddy’s: Help Wanted from Steel Wool Studios was very well received. So it’s great to see the horror franchise make a return featuring new games, locations, story, and animatronics. This is expected in late 2023.
As for Arizona Sunshine 2, the original is a staple part of any VR gamer’s library and has long been overdue a sequel. Taking the action up a notch, Arizona Sunshine 2 is going to give players even more destructive freedom. Plus they’ll be joined by a new four-legged companion when the game arrives later this year.
It was also great to see Cosmodread make an appearance. Out now for PSVR 2, Cosmodread is part of our best VR horror games selection so it is brilliant to see the title ported to Sony’s headset.
No surprises
Looking like nDreams’ Fracked but on steroids and mushrooms, Synapse is an action-adventure with massive firepower and telekinesis. Unveiled a few months ago, Synapse is now scheduled for a 4th July 2023 launch. This could very well be a big summer blockbuster for PSVR 2, alongside the next title…
Another game everyone knew about is Crossfire: Sierra Squad. Developer Smilegate West showcased some new footage – which did look good – whilst earmarking a Summer 2023 release window.
Last but not least, Beat Saber has finally launched for PSVR 2. The rhythm-action game has made it to every other VR platform and was hugely popular on PSVR. As an added treat, there’s a new music pack available featuring iconic rock band Queen. That does mean you need to buy the game – there’s a free upgrade if you already own it – and then spend another $13.99 USD right away.
More fizzle than sizzle
For VR fans these were nice to see but none – apart from Resi 4 – were exactly system sellers. With PlayStation VR 2 now available at retailers you’d have thought Sony would’ve made a bigger push for more details on the franchises we know are coming.
Where was the Alien update, more news on Ghostbusters: Rise of the Ghost Lord or Stranger Things VR? These are the kind of major franchises people want to see and know about, especially when it comes to peeking at the interest of non-VR gamers.
PSVR 2 has so much to offer and is selling better than the first headset. However, at its current price, that could trail off quicker if the content isn’t there.