Sony Addresses Rumors Of Reduced PSVR 2 Production Due To Low Pre-Order Numbers

According to Bloomberg, sources close to Sony reveal that pre-orders for the Playstation VR 2 have fallen short of expectations. Consequently, the company has adjusted production plans and will manufacture fewer units.

Bloomberg reports that Sony has cut its shipment target for the quarter in half and will be producing one million VR systems. Initially, the company aimed to sell two million units upon launch.

Sony now anticipates shipping 1.5 million units from April 2023 to March 2024. However, that figure may decrease if demand fails to materialize. Sources indicate that Sony has informed a display supplier to prepare for a decrease in orders.

Expensive Price May Deter Potential Buyers

The revised shipment forecast is due to underwhelming pre-order numbers, as reported. The PlayStation VR 2 has been open for pre-orders since November 2022, initially only through Sony but later also through retailers and online stores. Currently, the absence of waiting lists at most stores indicates a lack of interest in the new VR headset.

A possible explanation is that the high cost of the console accessory may be deterring consumers. The PlayStation VR 2 begins at $550, while the required Playstation 5 starts at $500, making the accessory more expensive than the console.

Sources suggest that Sony hopes to release titles like Horizon Call of the Mountain will drive demand. Currently, the gaming community is more impressed by the price than the game offerings of the PSVR 2.

Sony has denied its cutting PSVR 2 shipments: "We are seeing enthusiasm from PlayStation fans for the upcoming launch, which includes more than 30 titles such as Gran Turismo 7, Horizon Call of the Mountain, and Resident Evil Village." https://t.co/tEzBNf85uS

— Christopher Dring (@Chris_Dring) January 31, 2023

Poor Demand For The Psvr 2 Spells Trouble For Both The Vr Industry And Sony

Suppose Sony does not establish a thriving VR ecosystem for studios within the next two years. In that case, studios may shift towards platforms like Meta Quest or abandon VR altogether. The PlayStation VR 2 may face a similar fate to its predecessor.

Low demand for the PSVR 2 would impact the B2C VR industry and cast doubt on VR’s future in gaming. Companies like Meta, HTC, and Pico would face fewer significant competitors and industry drivers, as well as an increased investment burden.
So far, Apple remains quiet, and it’s uncertain if the rumors will prove accurate.

The featured image was gotten from roadtovr.com