Sony released some details and images about the controllers for their new Virtual Reality headset they are creating for the PlayStation 5.
Features
The VR controllers will include some of the same features of the Playstation 5 DualSense controllers, including adaptive triggers and haptic feedback. Alongside these, Sony promises “finger touch detection,” which will allow games to know when your finger is on a button without a press. This should effectively allow you to have variable control over grabbing something versus squeezing it, for example.
The post also claims a “tracking ring across the bottom of the controller,” which seems to replace the glowing ping pong ball of the PlayStation Move controllers that we currently use.
Design
Visually, the controllers feature a ring guard that is similar to what you might see on the Oculus Rift or Valve Index controllers. But from there the controllers quickly stand out from the crowd. Smooth curves and a modified layout of the PlayStation buttons create a controller that looks comfortable, sleek, and interesting. It looks like it will feel natural to hold and I will immediately understand how to pick up a sword or squeeze a trigger.
What do I think
On the PlayStation 5 DualSense controllers, adaptive triggers and haptic feedback shine where they are used well but feel distracting when used improperly. With Virtual Reality, immersion is more important than ever. Developers have to be willing to put in the time to take advantage of the triggers, touch detection, and haptic feedback.
The VR marketplace is still in its infancy. It isn’t uncommon to see many games try to touch as many headsets and storefronts as possible. I’m worried that the features of these controllers will be ignored or lazily tacked. This will keep all the different versions of a game consistent, but could make the new headset feel like “just another one of those”.
We are still eagerly awaiting details on price, release date, and the headset. But for now, these controllers show great promise for the VR future of the PlayStation 5.
[source and image source: Playstation Blog]
