PlayStation VR is promising for more innovative virtual reality on consoles.

Experiences on the PlayStation VR with the headset

Launched in 2016, it’s currently one of the best-selling VR headsets, partially due to the number of consumers who already owned a PS4. Other headsets such as the Oculus Quest are expensive as-is, not including the gaming PC needed to run them. This blockade was manageable after the release of the PlayStation VR, which will continue to modernize as time goes on.

• RELATED: Beat Saber Review -- We Got The Beat

Before entering a new level of gaming, determine whether you have a CUH-ZVR1 or CUH-ZVR2 model, this will come in handy during the set-up process, as both models have different instructions. Although PlayStation 5 released a system software update as of July 2022, PS VR is unchanged.

Step 1: Unboxing

All components of the PlayStation VR

Upon opening, sitting on top, there’s a helpful quick start guide that will help walk players through the initiation process. Inside the larger box, there are printed materials, a processor unit, a USB cable, an AC adapter, stereo headphones, an AC power cord, and an HDMI cable. If it’s the CUH-ZVR1, a VR headset connection cable will be found in the box as well. After placing these items aside, the last component in the box is the PS VR headset.

• RELATED: HTC Vive Pro Review -- The Most Powerful (And Expensive) Virtual Reality Headset

Step 2: Connectivity  

Connected components of the PlayStation VR

After unboxing, everything is laid out and ready to get connected. With the CUH-ZVR2, connect the stereo headphones to the headset. When headphones aren’t needed during gameplay, simply remove the earpieces out of the way. With the CUH-ZVR1, the same stereo headphones plug into the jack on the inline remote. However, any headphones will work perfectly, there’s no need to limit to the stereo headphones that came with the box. 

• RELATED: Archangel: Hellfire Coming To Oculus Rift And HTC Vive On July 17

With the PS4 and PlayStation Camera already connected, disconnect the HDMI from the back of the PS4 and plug it into the processor unit, which leaves the other end plugged into the TV. After that, take the PS VR HDMI cable (labeled Number 1) and connect it to the processor unit to the PS4. Next, take the USB cable (labeled Number 2) and plug one end into the PS4 with the other end plugged into the back of the processor unit. Next, connect the AC power cord to the AC adapter (labeled Number 3). Then, plug the other end of the AC adapter into the back of the processor unit. The free end of the AC power cord will then need to be plugged into a power outlet. 

Next, connect the VR headset to the front of the processor unit. Each port will have PlayStation-correlated symbols marking each; simply connect each to the corresponding symbols. However, with the CUH-ZVR1, use the connection cable labeled “4”. Then, slide the right side of the processor unit back to open the ports. Plug each cable into the corresponding ports with the correct symbols. Once connected, make sure to slide the right side of the processor unit back. The other end of cable “4” will connect to the VR headset’s cord, labeled “5”, these cables also have symbols over corresponding ports.  

Next, turn on each of these in order from first to last: TV, PS4, and PlayStation VR. If the tracking lights on the back of the headset glow blue, this means that everything was connected successfully.

Step 3: Playing 

PlayStation VR Play Area and safety guidelines

Now for the fun part. Make sure the PlayStation camera has a good view of the play area, most people mount it on top of their TVs or the base of their TVs, and it's usually recommended. After placing the camera in a preferred spot, make sure that the camera is not obstructed and can read the headset’s tracking lights and the lights on the DS4 or Move Controller at all times. 

For safety and fun gameplay, establish a play area of 6 by 10 feet, and the camera should mark the center of the area. To do this, moving furniture, pets, and various items in the room may be required. For extra safety, make a “buffer zone” outside of the play area for any “out of bounds” moments. 

If any time during gameplay the headset and controller stray from the play area, a pop-up warning will appear that warns players that they’re out of the play area and can resume playing once they’ve returned. Because of the headset’s tracking capabilities, make sure there are limited light sources in the background, closing curtains may be required. 

With the CUH-ZVR2, connect the stereo headphones to the VR headset. When the headphones are not in use, use the earpiece holders on the headset to move them out of the way for less distraction. The mute and volume buttons are on the bottom left-hand side of the scope, and the power button is in the center of the scope. For those who prefer using their own headphones, these will need to go over the headset. To adjust the way the headset fits the player’s head, there are adjustment buttons on the scope’s top right-hand side and a headset release button directly in the back of the scope. 

With the CUH-ZVR1, the adjustment button is located underneath the scope on the bottom right-hand side. There’s a dial above the release button that will fine-tune the size. To remove the headset, simply press the release button down. For glasses-wearers, it's best to put the VR headset over them. To recalibrate any of the VR settings later, simply press and hold the PS button on the controller. When the Quick Menu appears, select “Adjust PlayStation VR”. With the PlayStation VR successfully set up, prepare to play anticipated VR experiences such as Arizona Sunshine.

• NEXT: Firewall: Zero Hour Showed Me How VR Can Change The First-Person Shooter Landscape