There was great excitement when Sony started taking pre-orders for PlayStation VR2 in November. These were only possible by invitation from Sony, without it being clear how one would get into this elite circle.
Sony's SVP of Platform Experience Hideaki Nishino now provides an answer to this question in an interview with the Japanese FamitsuThis suggests that there were indeed several factors that increased one's chances. While anyone could apply as a potential customer for a PlayStation VR2 headset, this was by no means a guarantee of a pre-order.
The PSN account was the key factor in this regard, as Sony used it to determine playtime over a specific period. This period likely ran from November 01st, 2021 to October 31st, 2022. At least 20 hours of gameplay were required during this time to qualify for a PS VR2 pre-order.
This approach is due to the difficult situation at the PS5 launch, the chaos of which should not be repeated with PS VR2. Nishino adds on this point:
“Since the launch of the PS5, we have tried to work with retailers as much as possible to figure out how we can supply customers who wanted a console. Currently, we have received a certain amount of positive feedback regarding pre-orders for PS VR2, but we have also received feedback that we could do the same for PS5. However, it is difficult to fully utilize user usage history due to data security concerns.”
Famitsu
The whole thing is moot now anyway, since PlayStation VR2 can be pre-ordered without an invitation or any of the associated fuss. Even the charging station, which was temporarily sold out, is currently available again.
Pre-orders are going better than before.
In general, PS VR2 is expected to perform better in pre-orders during these first two months than the first PlayStation VR did. In this context, Sony recently emphasized that they plan to launch... very well and better prepared than back then hat.
Since the technology is now familiar to many, interest in this more mature version also seems to be higher than before.
PlayStation VR2 will be available from February 23, 2023.
Ah, I see. I should play less Genshin Impact so I don't get spammed by Sony so often.