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It has been reported that Sony is planning a virtual reality headset, similar to that of the Oculus Rift, for the PS4.
Citing “multiple sources”, Eurogamer states that a VR headset for the PS4 “is on track to be revealed in 2014.”
The article claims that the headset will be similar in operation to that of the Oculus Rift, which is currently in developers’ hands and is expected to reach consumers next year. A HD version, similar to the upcoming consumer release of the Rift, was shown at Gamescom.
The founder of Oculus, the makers of the Oculus Rift, Palmer Luckey has stated in the past that any appearance from Microsoft or Sony in the virtual reality market would “validate the market”.
“It would show that VR is important and it’s here to stay,” he added.
Meanwhile, COO of Oculus, Laird Malamed has said that an entrance into the market by either Microsoft or Sony would be “better for all of us,” as developers would be more likely to create content that supports virtual reality.
Eurogamer’s sources say that Sony’s device has been showcased in Evolution Studios’ upcoming PS4 game DriveClub, with players able to move their head to look around the interior of cars. Evolution Studios houses the Worldwide Studios Stereoscopic 3D team, who previously worked on 3D game development for the Playstation 3.
It is rumoured that Sony’s headset was to debut at the recent Gamescom event in Germany, but was halted from appearing because of unspecified reasons.
Sony has previously attempted to capture the virtual reality market with its 3D HMZ personal viewer (pictured), which sells for £1000 in the UK. The HMZ has a 720p display panel for each eye, and is compatible with 3D-capable games and movies.
