Since PS5 launched in 2020, millions of players have soared over the Forbidden West, broken the cycle on Atropos, faced the gods of Midgard, and saved Astro’s friends across the Playroom. PS5 owners have guided their team to glory, faced down their opponents in enormous battles, and discovered unbelievable worlds across hundreds of games.
And now, with more PS5s available than ever before, those looking to explore these worlds will have a much easier time doing so. New players will join the community with a wealth of adventures to choose from and there’s even more games on their way.
But where to start?
For some new players, that question could be a daunting one. To help guide these players, we’re looking to you, the gamers who are already with us, to highlight some of PS5’s best games, use of DualSense Wireless Controller and more to date.
Cast your vote in the Players’ Choice: Best of PS5 polls, and we’ll put together a list of your must-try games and features for new PS5 owners to get started with. The lists below are a starting point, but you can add your own comments in each category if you think we’ve missed anything.
Votes can be cast until February 16, 2023 at 6:00am PT / 2pm GMT, and we’ll reveal the most popular choices across our social channels over the coming weeks. While you await the results, take a look forward to what you can expect on PS5 in 2023.
It’s good to be back in the Zone! I’m Blake from Ironwood Studios, and I’m here to show you a little more of what’s happening out in the wilderness of Pacific Drive.
Life inside the wall is extremely dangerous, you’ll have to rely on a trusty station wagon when you venture out from the old auto shop. Be sure to fill up on gas before you head out on each trip into the Zone: letting your tank run dry out there is a good way to meet a bad end. Explore twisted landscapes and long-abandoned facilities as you scrap and scrounge for resources to keep your car running long enough to make a safe return. Make it back in one piece and use your haul of collected materials to repair and upgrade your wagon before you head back out for more.
As shown in our newest trailer, you’ll encounter all sorts of strange Anomalies, most of which aren’t too friendly. There are warped towers that arc out heavy bolts of electricity at anything that accidentally wanders too close, and underground hunks of metal ripping across the ground, shredding both earth and your tires. When collecting supplies you’ll want to stay close to your car, one of those menacing flying junk piles could sneak away with it without you noticing. You’ll need to closely observe and understand these Anomalies to figure out what you need to build to survive the next encounter. Kit out your car with gear to resist their attempts at ending your runs, and upgrade car panels from bare sheet metal all the way up to specialized armor plates that protect against the worst of the Zone’s elements.
When it comes to modifying your car, it’s not just about the fortifications. Add new racks to your car and strap them down with extra gear for the road: fuel tanks, wind-power generators, and automatic parking brakes. You’ll want every little edge you can get when you’re out in the Zone. Everyone needs extra space to store their junk on the roof rack, but you can also mount a controllable spotlight, a lightning rod to keep your battery charged when it gets a little extra stormy, or classified gadgets based on the experimental tech you find out on your runs.
As you chart the Zone, each expedition brings you deeper and deeper behind the walls. Your journeys will take you across challenging terrain, each area home to its own suite of nightmarish Anomalies. With these new risks come new rewards: certain resources can only be found in dangerous places. Just make sure your car is equipped for the task: if you’re heading into the muck of the marshes, you’ll want to change to some wheels that can handle mud and water. If you’ve got to cross an eternally-dark valley, some roof-mounted lights to illuminate the way forward are going to be pretty important. And if you’re like me, maybe you find yourself getting caught by lightning a few times too often – a high-tech engine upgrade solves that ‘can’t get out of here fast enough’ problem pretty quick.
Speaking of terrible weather and strange cataclysmic events in the Zone, we need to talk about the Zone Storms. These sweeping maelstroms rip apart the map, re-shaping the wilderness, and doing massive damage to anything (or anyone) caught out in them. Radiation is a common concern while trundling through the forest but once a full-force Zone Storm hits, it’s better to try and outrun it completely than to be blasting through the trees, hoping your car holds up as you watch your dashboard melt to pieces around you. Keep that gas pedal floored and the car pointed at the Gateway—each successful return is one step closer to escaping the Zone.
Scavenge resources, explore abandoned facilities, upgrade your garage and your ride — then go deeper into the wilderness to solve the mysteries and urban legends of the Zone. The utopian hope of strange new technologies might be gone, but their remnants still linger.
The Wizarding World beckons when Hogwarts Legacy launches on PS5 and PS4 February 10. Crafting the magical grounds of everybody’s favorite magical school is a labor of love by the dedicated team at Avalanche.
Explosions of color and light erupt from students’ wands across Hogwarts, harnessing the graphical potential of the PS5. Players can soar through the open world atop their sturdy broom or loyal mount, tapping into the super-fast SSD loading in the fantastical environment.
Starting this year, it’s now easier than before to find a PS5 thanks to increased console supply, which is great news for prospective Hogwarts students. To help players get a sense of what’s in store, Hogwarts Legacy Jose Villeta, Director of Software Engineering, shares some developer insights on how the Avalanche team tapped into the PS5 to enhance the magical journey.
We’re also excited to announce a brand new, limited edition Hogwarts Legacy DualSense wireless controller coming to the US and UK to celebrates the game’s launch on PS5. Artists Vanessa Palmer and Jeff Bunker at Avalanche Software talk about the design inspiration behind this magical DualSense controller.
Making magic with PlayStation 5
What were your first impressions when first learning about the power and capabilities of the PS5, from a developer perspective?
Since the first day I got early disclosure about the PS5, I knew we had on our hands a great gaming console. My video game career started with the launch of the original PlayStation and to know how much technology advancements have occurred since then was a dream come true. The DualSense controller felt next-generation right away. The fast accessing of assets through super-fast SSD combined with stunning 4K graphics and visuals set a foundation of what we will be able to deliver for our game.
What are the most significant ways that developing the PS5 version of Hogwarts Legacy enhances the overall experience for the player?
As we designed our game, we built it around the following five tech pillars.
DualSense controller
Fast loading times
3D audio
4K graphics and visuals
Activities and Game Help
Each of these pillars contributed to the development of a complete, groundbreaking, gaming experience. We invested and leveraged the power of PS5 around them. From controlling our player avatar on foot or flying on broom to fast traveling to multiple game locations in a large open world to an audio sensory 3D experience to stunning, great looking environments and characters to the mission tracking and immersive gameplay, the PS5 version of Hogwarts Legacy allows the player to be the wizard or the witch wants to be on the Wizarding World universe.
Visually-stunning magic is a cornerstone of the Wizarding World. How does Avalanche tap into the PS5’s capabilities to create visual effects that “sell” the fantasy of the game’s spells?
From the early development days, we wanted to make sure we deliver amazing visual effects for all the spells and magic around the Wizarding World. Leveraging Unreal Engine, next-generation Niagara visual effects system combined with large computing and rendering capabilities of the PS5, Hogwarts Legacy delivered dozens of unique spells, each one with its own casting, impact and area of effect graphical presentation and treatment. We built a visual language for each spell and as you gain experience you get access to more powerful and advanced visual effects.
The DualSense wireless controller offers a unique level of immersion thanks to its haptics and adaptive triggers. What implementation of the DualSense wireless controller are you most excited about in Hogwarts Legacy?
The DualSense wireless controller enabled us to build a unique gaming experience leveraging key technologies like adaptive triggers, haptic feedback, LED light feedback, touchpad usage, speaker audio and tilt controls. The most exciting part of our game is the amazing combat experiences controlling your wand and casting all kind of unique spells. The combination of adaptive triggers with haptic feedback made our combat encounters felt authentic and totally immersive. You feel like you are in total control of your avatar and as you perform combos and finishers you get rewarded with stunning visual effects and enemy reactions.
Hogwarts Legacy DualSense wireless controller
We’ve said it before: The PlayStation 5 DualSense wireless controller is an extension of your wand in Hogwarts Legacy, seemingly putting the magic of the game directly in your hands. We’ve also detailed the DualSense features that will connect you with that magic, from haptic feedback providing unique sensations throughout the game to adaptive triggers that enhance spellcasting. Extending well beyond just spells, the DualSense wireless controller immerses you in Hogwarts Legacy’s 1800s wizarding world like never before, letting you feel the flap of a hippogriff’s wings and sense whispers of the mysterious Ancient Magic.
With that in mind, we were really excited at the prospect of creating a limited edition Hogwarts Legacy DualSense controller. We knew we wanted something special that looked as good as it felt to hold. But when it came time to land on a specific design, that was a much more difficult process to parse.
The Wizarding World franchise has so many elements to pull from, how could we possibly distill this game down into a single controller design? Do we go with a wand motif to represent that connection with the controller? Perhaps we lean into Hogwarts Legacy’s unique Ancient Magic themes? What about drawing inspiration from the four Hogwarts houses, or even “light” and “dark” to represent the choices you can make? But through the many ideas we had to choose from, we always came back to the thing that lies at the center of this whole experience: Hogwarts itself.
With so much consideration and thought being put into this design, I went directly to Avalanche Software Artist Vanessa Palmer and Art Director Jeff Bunker to get some insight into how the design of the limited edition Hogwarts Legacy DualSense wireless controller came to be:
Vanessa Palmer: “We wanted the controller design to combine magic with the decorative elements of the Victorian period. The sweeping magic and stars draw you to Hogwarts itself, creating a blend unique to our game and time period.”
Jeff Bunker: “We are thrilled to have had the opportunity to work with the PlayStation team on the creation of this new DualSense controller for the upcoming game, Hogwarts Legacy. Our goal was to bring a hint of the in-game experience into the player’s hands…literally. Many themes were considered, from the representation of the different houses, magic wands, beasts or even the sorting hat. But it was clear very early that we should focus on the star of the game, Hogwarts itself. So we centered the iconic castle and incorporated swirling motifs of Ancient Magic into the design, highlighting the player’s special role within the story.
“From the beginning, we had a vision of a simple, clean and sophisticated aesthetic. White, blue, and aqua, amongst a number of other colors, were tried but in the end, we chose matte black as the primary color for the controller, not only because it contributed to our desired aesthetic, but also because it hints at the darker themes that players can expect in the game. To add a touch of authenticity, we incorporated old-gold Victorian intaglio etching into the designs of the castle and Ancient Magic swirls, highlighting the era in which the game takes place.
“It was an exciting and fun process to bring a piece of the virtual world of Hogwarts Legacy into the real and interactive physical world of the controller. We can’t wait for players to get their hands on it and fully immerse themselves in the game.”
At Avalanche, our passion for the Wizarding World is poured into everything we do, whether it’s bringing fans an authentic Wizarding World video game experience or creating a custom controller with which to play it. We hope fans love the limited edition Hogwarts Legacy DualSense controller as much as we do.
Get it directly from PlayStation
The DualSense Wireless Controller – Hogwarts Legacy Limited Edition will be available in limited quantities and exclusively on direct.playstation.com in the US and UK only.
In the U.S., starting at 10AM PT on Friday, February 10, 2023, DualSense Wireless Controller – Hogwarts Legacy Limited Edition will be available for pre-order (while supplies last) on direct.playstation.com with a US launch date of February 28, 2023.
In the UK, starting at 10AM GMT on Friday, February 10, 2023, DualSense Wireless Controller – Hogwarts Legacy Limited Edition will be available for purchase (while supplies last) on direct.playstation.com with a UK launch date of February 10, 2023. Stay tuned to direct.playstation.com for more information.
Forge your path and create a legacy in Season 2 of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II and Call of Duty: Warzone 2.0. In addition to a new map that will be featured in Resurgence and DMZ game modes, the new season brings Ranked Play, additional Multiplayer maps, and a handful of franchise-favorite game modes like Infected, Gun Game, and Grind.
Unlock five new free functional weapons, test your skills in the Path of the Ronin Challenges, and dominate with the new Operator, Ronin.
Season 2 launches on PlayStation on February 15.
Call of Duty: Warzone 2.0 — Introducing Ashika Island
Ashika Island is a centuries-old village under siege by Shadow Company forces. Navigate an ancient shipwreck and ruins, a modern town center, a beach club, a port, an organic farm, or the fortified castle standing over the island. Ashika Island has its own secrets to uncover, often rewarding intrepid explorers. Its points of interest include:
Ōganikku Farms – The majority of the northwestern sector of Ashika Island is comprised of mixed agricultural, residential, and industrial use, along with old shoreline defenses.
Town Center – Impressive sea wall defenses, a Ferry Terminal, tourist facilities, a semi-circular City Hall structure and more highlight this point of interest.
Beach Club – Further southwest of the Town Center, and east of the Port is an aquarium and Beach Club and open-air swimming within the southwestern ocean beach.
Tsuki Castle – The higher ground in the center of Ashika Island is dominated by an ancient castle with multiple fortifications, cherry blossoms in bloom, and a natural defensive hill along the southwestern side of the structure.
Port Ashika – The southwestern edge is dominated by rocky bluffs, and a port named after the island. Expect a variety of industrial warehouses, offices, a comms tower as you venture towards the ocean.
Residential – On the lower ground below the castle battlements to the north, and east of the Farms and allotments sits some residential housing between a couple of industrial structures.
Shipwreck – The inclement weather and hazardous shoreline spelled doom for two cargo tankers. Both vessels have run aground here, and the Shipment containers they were carrying have been mostly saved and stacked in a pleasing manner.
Resurgence Returns: Available for all squad sizes – Solos, Duos, Trios, and Quads – within regular Playlist updates throughout the season, Resurgence Mode allows for multiple respawns, as long as one squad member is still standing. If a squad member is eliminated while one or more squad members are still alive, a countdown will appear beside their name. When this countdown hits zero, they will redeploy to the Drop Zone.
This countdown can be shortened by your squadmates performing specific in-game actions such as eliminating enemies. This countdown grows longer with each circle collapse until the final few circles — where all redeploys, save for those bought through a Buy Station — are disabled. The last squad standing wins.
Exclusive features to Ashika Island
Restore Honor (Launch, Resurgence): Every Operator on Ashika Island will drop a dog tag upon death, which can either be picked up by a squadmate or themselves after redeploying. Doing so grants a small Cash reward and a single UAV ping that marks both enemy threats and nearby Supply Boxes.
Search and Seizure (In-Season, Resurgence): Reclaim a stolen vehicle from Shadow Company forces on the island. Operators must neutralize any guards near the vehicle, then grab the dropped key and get the vehicle to its designated drop-off point. Expect heavy resistance en route to your destination.
Data Heist (In-Season, Resurgence): A new Public Event, the Data Heist occurs during the second circle collapse, when three uplink stations come online around the map. Squads can hack into and remain near the uplink station to gain intel. Eliminate incoming Shadow Company forces to speed up the download process.
Enemy Operators can halt progress by contesting the station area directly or by using a DDoS Field Upgrade. Squads that successfully download the intel from two or three uplink stations will receive increased rewards, such as a random Killstreak or even an Advanced UAV.
Redeploy Drones (In-Season, Resurgence): Redeploy Drones are the high-risk, high-reward way to reposition around Ashika Island. Simply hook a cable up to the drone via interaction, then launch up and parachute to a distant location. Drones occasionally change position during the match and can be targeted by lock-on missiles.
New Rusher Combatant (In-Season, Resurgence): What they lack in defense, the Rusher makes up for in agility and a deadly short sword. This adversary also packs a pistol in case a target is unreachable for a melee attack, as well as mini smoke bombs for distraction and repositioning.
DMZ expands to Ashika Island
As part of the new season, Ashika Island will be a new Exclusion Zone accessible in DMZ. This new area continues the mode’s narrative and other new features like Boss Hideouts.
Season 2 Combat Pack for PlayStation Plus members
Available on February 22, the Season 2 Combat Pack grants Hiro “Oni” Wantanabe a new Operator Skin that suits the journey of those living the Samurai Code.
PlayStation Plus members will also receive the following: the “Oni Carver” SMG Blueprint, the “Oni Slasher” Assault Rifle Blueprint, the “Yoroi” Weapon Charm, the “Crimson Oni” Animated Calling Card, the “Golden Dragonfly” Weapon Sticker, and the “Grinning Oni” Emblem.
Modern Warfare II — Ranked Play, Additional Maps and Modes
Ranked Play: Prove your skills in this feature-packed Multiplayer mode using Call of Duty League (CDL)-approved rules, restrictions, maps, and modes. Earn exclusive items and display your public skill rank with pride.
Ranked Play includes seven Skill Divisions — Bronze through the Top 250, where your name will be displayed on a special Top 250 leaderboard. Earn Skill Division Skins based on your highest rank for the Season, including rewards for finishing in the Gold Division or above for the first time, along with other unique rewards given out each season.
New Multiplayer maps at launch
Dome (Core Map): Located at the highest point in Al Mazrah, Dome is a recreation of one of Call of Duty’s most iconic Multiplayer maps. This small- to medium-sized map is built for fast-paced combat in and around its three main buildings, including the iconic domed structure.
Zaya Observatory (Battle Map): The Battle Map version of Dome expands to fit the entire mountaintop area.
Al Malik International (Battle Map): This modern airport located at the southern tip of Al Mazrah features traditional and modern architecture. Use the skills you’ve applied here in Battle Royale and DMZ to secure victory.
The other Core map launching at the start of Season 2 is Valderas Museum, returning since first appearing in the Modern Warfare II Beta.
New Multiplayer modes
Infected (Launch): Operators must avoid the chosen Infected player at all costs. Eliminated survivors join the Infected until none remain, or the timer runs out.
Gun Game (Launch): Each ranged elimination awards the next weapon, while melee eliminations put your opponent one weapon back on the 18-weapon rotation.
Grind (Launch): Kill Confirmed with a twist: Enemy dog tags are stackable and must be banked at one of two fixed locations.Bank multiple dog tags at once to maximize point gains.
Drop Zone (In-Season): A derivative of Hardpoint, Drop Zone sends a Care Package down into occupied zones every 15 seconds. Perfect for those looking to ramp up their Killstreak elimination numbers or who just love pure chaos.
All or Nothing (In-Season): Operators start the match with Throwing Knives and a pistol with no ammo, plus additional perks with each elimination starting with Scavenger, granting ammo after each elimination.
One in the Chamber (In-Season): Every Operator gets a handgun with one bullet in the chamber for this Free-for-All variant. Each elimination awards an additional bullet, and Operators have only three respawns.
Raid Episode 2 Coming Mid-Season
Atomgrad was just the beginning. Price, Farah, and Gaz will be back later in Season 2 with Episode 2 of the Raid, a continuation of the Modern Warfare II Campaign.
Path of the Ronin Season Challenges
The Path of the Ronin Event presents seven challenges to be completed in Warzone 2.0 or Modern Warfare II based on the themes of Integrity, Respect, Courage, Honor, Compassion, Sincerity, and Loyalty. Complete every challenge to unlock the new Crossbow functional weapon.
Five New Weapons at Launch
Get three of these new weapons through the Season 2 Battle Pass and the other two weapons through seasonal challenges:
ISO Hemlock Assault Rifle (Launch, Battle Pass): This powerful and enhanced rifle from Expedite Firearms is designed to take both 5.56 and subsonic .300 BLK ammunition, providing battlefield-advantage in any situation.
KV Broadside Shotgun (Launch, Battle Pass): Bringing the power of 12 gauge to the Kastov Platform, the KV Broadside is the fastest-firing semi-auto firearm in the shotgun class. Destroys targets at close range with impunity.
Crossbow (Launch Window, Challenges): Silent and agile, this high-performance crossbow fires 20.0” bolts with exceptional lethality. Exclusive customization, distinct functionality, and unique ammunition types put this weapon in a class of its own. Standard 20.0” bolts are recoverable and are undetectable by Trophy Systems. Unlock this new functional weapon by completing The Path of the Ronin challenges.
Also coming to Season 2 is the Dual Kodachis Melee Weapon as part of the Battle Pass, as well as a new Marksman Rifle to be available at midseason.
New personal watercraft vehicle
Complementing the armored Patrol Boat and the midsized RHIB, the Personal Watercraft (PWC) is a nimble seacraft capable of swiftly carrying up to two Operators through waterways.
New Operator
Daniel “Ronin” Shinoda (Launch): Returning from Call of Duty: Modern Warfare (2019), Ronin is an ex–Special Forces fighter known for his mastery of multiple fighting styles. He is an accomplished saboteur who can pick apart defense systems like no other Operator can.
Season 2 Launches February 15
Purchase Modern Warfare II on PlayStation for the premium Warzone 2.0 experience — access up to 14 additional Operators, earn Weapon and Level Progression, and more. As a Modern Warfare II owner, receive bonus XP at the end of each match when you play Warzone 2.0.
With only a few weeks away from the release of Destiny 2: Lightfall, we’re excited to announce that starting today, the critically acclaimed Beyond Light expansion is available to PlayStation Plus members until March 6. This primer will help Guardians prepare for Lightfall by getting the most out of Beyond Light’s Stasis subclass, powerful Exotics, and more.
Not only does Beyond Light unlock an entire frost-themed subclass called Stasis, the expansion also includes a thrilling campaign filled with ice-cold cosmetics, Legendary gear, and powerful Exotic armor and weapons.
Wield Powerful Weapons
Weapons like No Time to Explain, the Exotic Pulse Rifle belonging to the iconic time-traveling Stranger.
No Time to Explain: Precision hits and hits against enemies affected by Stasis will return ammo to the magazine. Stack this effect to summon a portal which will fire bullets from an alternate timeline of the weapon.
And because of how Destiny 2 enables you to increase the strength of the weapons and armor you collect, the gear you love in Beyond Light can be as powerful as you want it to be as you embark on your Lightfall adventure. That means you can immediately start building your Guardian into a frost-slinging monster-shattering machine that will leave the Tormentors on Neptune shivering in their boots.
But let’s not get ahead of ourselves; Lightfall doesn’t launch until February 28. Today we’re heading to Europa, a cold and treacherous moon of Jupiter. So, let’s start with the power that Eramis, the Kell of Darkness, is chasing—the same power you’ll be mastering as you play through the campaign.
The First Darkness Subclass: Stasis
Beyond Light is significant for several reasons, but first and foremost, it marked the first time a new subclass was added to the original trio of Arc, Solar, and Void. And it’s the only subclass that draws its power from the Darkness as opposed to the Light. Diving into Beyond Light today is your opportunity to get a head start with Stasis in preparation for the threats of Lightfall.
At its core, Stasis is a power that unlocks the ability for Guardians to slow, freeze, and shatter their foes; and each class gets their own way to wield the new element:
Warlock Shadebinder: The Shadebinder can summon a Stasis staff that fires projectiles which can freeze opponents, immediately rendering them immobile. Their Penumbral Blast melee is a quick burst of Stasis energy that erupts from the staff and instantly freezes anyone it hits.
Hunter Revenant: They can’t kill what they can’t hit. Hunters use the power of Stasis to slow down foes, doubling their effectiveness on the battlefield. The Hunter’s Super features a pair of Kama blades which explode when thrown at opponents, summoning a Stasis storm that chases down stragglers.
Titan Behemoth: If getting up close and personal with the bad guys sounds like your style, may we introduce you to the Titan Behemoth? The Behemoth takes the most direct route to conflict resolution: forming a massive Stasis crystal gauntlet around their fist and punching their way to peace.
Destination: Europa
It’s on Jupiter’s moon of Europa that you’ll uncover Stasis as well as Eramis, the Kell of Darkness, and her Fallen army. As you play through Beyond Light’s story, you’ll discover her motives and a dark plot unfolding right at humanity’s doorstep.
In addition to the campaign which will take you all across Europa, through Empire Hunts and Exo Challenges, there’s also a new three-player strike and six-player raid.
The Glassway: Within the Asterion Abyss on Europa lies a Braytech facility holding a unique Vex portal. Eramis has ventured here intending to use this long-dormant gateway for an unknown purpose.
Deep Stone Crypt: Deep beneath the surface of Europa lies a facility created during the Golden Age. The knowledge of what it holds was lost to time… until now. Something within this hidden cavern whispers to Eramis. As she struggles to gain access, Guardians will intervene, and in the process, learn the dark truth about what happened here.
Up for the challenge? Ready to stand face to face with the power that whispers to you from the dark cold wasteland? Then we should probably upgrade your weapons and armor…
Exotic Power
From a Sniper Rifle that summons lightning to Warlock gauntlets that corrupt enemies with poison, here’s a look at three of the over ten new Exotics you can start collecting today for your mission to Neomuna in Lightfall.
Cloudstrike: Precision final blows will generate lightning bolts at the target location. Rapid precision shots will summon an entire storm at the point of impact.
Necrotic Grip: Melee attacks corrupt combatants with increasing damage over time. Defeating a corrupted combatant spreads the corruption to nearby targets and restores melee energy.
The Lament: Block with The Lament to rev the blade, then shred through shielded combatants. At its peak, damaging a combatant will heal the wielder.
Some Exotics (like Necrotic Grip) are so powerful that you can create entirely new builds around them, and others easily slot into whatever playstyle you’re into at the moment.
Beyond Lightfall
This is all just the tip of the iceberg. Once Lightfall launches and introduces the world to Strand (Destiny’s second Darkness subclass—that has a grappling hook, by the way), you’ll have brand new ways to approach Europa with a completely different build. Including mixing and matching Beyond Light Exotics with Strand abilities and vice versa.
Just imagine suspending enemies with Strand and revving up your Lament for a power attack, or freezing a Tormentor in its tracks with Stasis. Once you’re a grappling-hook pro, how cool would it be to fly through the platforming sections of the Deep Stone Crypt using Strand? The possibilities are only limited by your creativity.
In fact, you should probably just keep track of everything you think a grappling hook would be cool to shoot at.
Destiny 2: Beyond Light is available for all PlayStation Plus members to redeem until March 6, 2023, and keep for the life of their membership. It requires the base Destiny 2 game to play, but the good thing is that it’s available with no additional charge from PlayStation Store.*
Download and start playing today. We hope you enjoy your time on Europa and get ready for the next chapter coming in Lightfall. Our end is just beginning, and humanity needs every available Guardian to answer the call.
*PlayStation Plus membership may be required to access some features.
Feel-good gem Garden of the Sea combines world exploration with farming, creativity and much more. If you are looking for progression and adventure, you will find it. If you are looking for relaxation, stay where you are and let the world gently take its course. The wholesome game launches on PlayStation VR2 February 22.
Make gardens and craft everything you might want to customize them, from bamboo, coral, woods, stone, plant parts, and more.
Pet and feed the many kinds of animals with homegrown veggies and cuddle their babies
Expand and decorate your home by crafting items, furniture and paint
Go fishing for new friends to hang out in your pond
Take your boat for a ride to discover new land and environment types
No violence – all tend and befriend
Complete quests to unravel each island’s hidden mystery
Garden of the Sea invites you to head out across the ocean as playful sea creatures swim along, to discover new land and treasures, make a home and fill it with the best of the best from your adventures.
Meet the developers
Linnéa, Christoffer and Flippy of Neat Corporation.
We spoke to two of the developers: Art Director Christoffer Svenningsson and Artist Filip “Flippy” Tengwall.
What led up to the start of Garden of the Sea’s development?
Christoffer: I had been wanting to make a specific type of game for a long time, like a more fantasy version of Stardew Valley and Harvest Moon. Something bright, imaginative and wholesome with lots of creativity, farming and places to explore. On a boat!
Flippy: It’s a genre a lot of us at Neat enjoy playing ourselves so when we heard the idea it was easy for the mind to go “What if this in VR?”
Christoffer: As the idea caught on we found ourselves sneaking in work on Garden of the Sea even while the first Budget Cuts game was still in production. It lay in the pipeline for a long time so the concept got to evolve slowly and organically while we explored as many of our ideas as possible. It was just a lot of fun to work on and a relaxing contrast to the dark corridors of Budget Cuts, so it was hard to stop ourselves. Someone snapped a photo of me during a break just lying on a pouf playing GotS like a happy loaf of man with a huge smile on my face. That one’s definitely found its way onto our instagram at some point.
What was the core of what you wanted to create?
Christoffer: The original pitch is actually quite different from what the final game ended up being, even though much of it’s still in there. I wanted to explore a world that feels familiar at some levels but still different from everyday life. From the beginning we were toying with many ideas, like the islands floating in the sky and exploring them on an airship but in the end we landed (no pun intended) with the boat in an archipelago. We hadn’t seen much of animals in VR, so the care-taking aspect was also new for us to explore. There aren’t many VR farm-simulation games in general. Coupled with that we felt that these types of games were the most interesting to us personally, we got really excited about the project. I’ve been following this genre for a long time so as a fan it felt very natural to bring it to the VR scene. And it turned out that it works really well.
I can confess I played Stardew Valley the first time when on sick leave for insomnia and stress, and for a while it was the only way I could find a sense of relaxation to pass the time when I was too exhausted to do much else. And as I read some Garden of the Sea player reviews I came across a few that mentioned mental health and how Garden of the Sea has helped them in various aspects of their lives.
Flippy: From the top of my head there is a fairly recent review that mentions feeling less lonely when playing. It reminded me of when the pandemic hit. We had the game open for purchase and playing to collect feedback from players before we finally made an official release in January 2022. There were obviously a lot of unknowns and fear in general society and we were all working from home, as most people who could were. We kept in contact with the player community for feedback and a lot of people also reached out to us in private just to tell us how the game was helping them cope. Even though it’s a single player game, many people felt it helped them through the isolation and other struggles too.
Christoffer: I can recognise that too from my own life, having grown up in the countryside on a farm with lots of animals around. It does feel more lonely here in the city, where many people don’t have the space at home to keep pets. I definitely feel an emotional connection to the GotS animals even though they’re digital, which surprised me a bit.
Flippy: I think VR as a medium generally amplifies immersion times a hundred. Since many games out there are action- and conflict-driven, VR in entertainment has proved to give us stronger adrenaline kicks and more realistic scares. But it was cool to discover that we can use that immersion boost to work with other emotions as well, such as what folks usually refer to as “positive” emotions. It was especially clear to us when we saw people playing the game. Their reactions to the cute animals were often surprisingly strong, like “whoa, that’s cute!”
Garden of the Sea will be a launch title on the PS VR2, February 22.
If you have any question about PS VR2, you should expect to find it answered here in this ultimate guide. And if it doesn’t have what you’re looking for, leave us a note in the comments below. We’ll do our best to update this guide before, during and after launch.
What is PlayStation VR2’s release date and its retail price?
PlayStation VR2 will be available globally on February 22, 2023 starting at the following prices:
$549.99 / €599.99 / £529.99 / ¥74,980 recommended retail price (including tax for GBP, EUR, and JPY). Actual retailer prices may vary.
Availability in each country/region is subject to local import regulations.
What’s included in the PS VR2 box?
PlayStation VR2 will be available in two options at launch.
PlayStation VR2
Includes PS VR2 headset, PS VR2 Sense controller, stereo headphones with additional earpieces, USB cable
PlayStation VR2 Horizon Call of the Mountain Bundle
Includes PlayStation Store voucher code for Horizon Call of the Mountain, PS VR2 headset, PS VR2 Sense controller, stereo headphones with additional earpieces, USB cable.
How does PS VR2 enhance gameplay?
PS VR2 is a quantum leap for VR experiences, and allows you to interact in new and immersive ways powered by the PS5 console. With PlayStation VR2 Sense Technology, it combines PlayStation VR2 Sense controllers, PlayStation VR2 headset feedback, 3D Audio, and eye tracking to bring emotion and immersion to life.
In a huge boost to visual clarity, the PS VR2 headset features an internal HDR OLED display that supports 2000 x 2040 pixels per eye, along with a wider field of view to create a more seamless VR gameplay experience.
PS VR2 also features headset feedback with subtle haptic effects that add a tactile element to the sensory experience. Examples could include feeling your character’s heartbeat, the rush of objects passing close to your head, and more. Eye-tracking cameras follow your line of sight when aiming or looking around, with PS VR2 delivering a high-fidelity visual experience by adjusting resolutions to pinpoint and enhance whatever you’re focusing on (this is known as foveated rendering). The PS5 console’s advanced 3D audio features allow developers to create an incredibly realistic soundscape, too.
The included PS VR2 Sense controller also brings significant enhancements to the VR experience, including much more precise hand motion tracking than PS VR, finger touch detection, as well as haptic feedback and adaptive trigger effects similar to the DualSense wireless controller for the PS5 console.
And PS VR2’s setup is easy: One USB Type-C cord plugs directly into the PS5 console. “Inside out” cameras embedded into the headset track the movements of your head, making a simple, intuitive playing experience without the need for external cameras or other sensors.
Will PS VR2 work with the PS4 console?
PS VR2 is designed for the PS5 console, and will not work with the PS4 console.
What are the differences between PS VR2 and the first generation PS VR?
PlayStation VR
PlayStation VR2
Display method
OLED
OLED
Panel resolution
960×1080 per eye
2000 x 2040 per eye
Panel refresh rate
90Hz, 120Hz
90Hz, 120Hz
Lens separation
N/A
Adjustable
Field of View
Approx. 100 degrees
Approx. 110 degrees
Sensors
Motion Sensor: Six-axis motion sensing system (three-axis gyroscope, three-axis accelerometer) Attachment Sensor: IR Proximity sensor
Motion Sensor: Six-axis motion sensing system (three-axis gyroscope, three-axis accelerometer) Attachment Sensor: IR Proximity sensor
Cameras
PlayStation Camera (external, for PS4, or compatible with PS5 via PS5 camera adaptor)
4 embedded cameras for headset and controller tracking IR camera for eye tracking per eye
Feedback
N/A
Vibration on headset
Communication with console
Processor unit: HDMI TV, HDMI PS4, USB, HDMI, AUX
USB Type-C®
Audio Input
Built-in microphone
Built-in microphone
Audio Output
Stereo headphone jack
Stereo headphone jack
Weight
Approx. 600g (21.16 oz) (excluding cables)
Approx. 560g (19.8 oz) (excluding cables)
External Dimensions
Approx. 187 × 185 × 277 mm (7.4 x 7.2 x 10.9 in) (width × height × length) excludes largest projection, headband at the shortest
Approx. 212 × 158 × 278 mm (8.3 × 6.2 × 10.9 in) (width × height × length) excludes largest projection, headband at the shortest
What are the different viewing modes on PS VR2?
There are two viewing modes.
VR Mode: You can enjoy VR game content in a 360 degree view in a virtual environment. Content will be displayed in 4000 x 2040 HDR video format (2000 x 2040 per eye) with 90Hz/120Hz frame rate.
Cinematic Mode: You can view the PS5 system and UI and all non-VR game and media content, such as streaming apps, on a virtual cinema screen. Content in Cinematic Mode will be displayed in 1920×1080 HDR video format with 24/60Hz and also 120Hz frame rate. The audio and image will be only displayed on the VR headset and there is no output on the TV side when you are wearing VR headset and playing in Cinematic mode.
Does PS VR2 support HDR?
Yes, the PS VR2 headset will display supported content in HDR, both VR Mode and Cinematic Mode.
How do I connect the PS VR2 to my PS5?
It’s easy: just use the USB Type-C cable that is included for the PS VR2 headset to directly connect to your PS5 console.
How long is this included USB Type-C cable for the PS VR2 headset?
The included cable is approximately 4.5m (14.7 ft) long.
What is the minimum play space I need to use PS VR2?
There are three different VR Play Styles depending on the game content. Please check the compatibility notice for each title to ensure you have enough play space.
Roomscale (allows more movement)
A minimum play area of 2m × 2m (6 ft 7 in × 6 ft 7 in) in the room is required.
Sitting
Requires a minimum play area of 1m × 1m (3 ft 4 in × 3 ft 4 in). Make sure you have enough space to move your arms freely.
Standing
Requires a minimum play area of 1m × 1m (3 ft 4 in × 3 ft 4 in). Make sure you have enough space to move your arms freely.
Can I customize this play area?
The play area for PS VR2 can be customized by using the PS VR2 Sense controller and the cameras that are embedded in the PS VR2 headset. The cameras will allow you to scan the room, while the PS VR2 Sense controller allows you to expand and further customize the play area to fit your play style and room environment.
While playing, if you get close to the boundary you have set up, you will receive a warning that you are closely approaching the play area boundary. You can modify your settings at any time while PS VR2 is connected. Once you set up your play area, the settings will be saved unless you move into a different play area. You can use See-Through View to aid you at any time.
What is See-Through View?
With PS VR2, you can see your surroundings while wearing the headset with the new See-Through View feature. It comes in handy when you want to easily check where the PS VR2 Sense controller is in your room without taking the headset off.
Thanks to the embedded cameras on PS VR2, you can press the function button on the headset, or use the PlayStation VR2 Quick Settings in the Control Center, to switch between viewing your surroundings, or viewing the content on PS VR2. The Card in the Control Center also gives quick access to other PS VR2 settings, such as adjusting the play area.
The See-Through View is for viewing only, so there’s no recording option.
Does my room have to be dark for PS VR2 to work?
No, this is not necessary. For the best experience, we recommend playing PS VR2 in a well-lit room.
When I’m using PS VR2, will other people in the room be able to experience what I’m seeing?
Yes. Similar to PS VR, PS VR2 will also have Social Screen experience that allows others to see what you’re experiencing on the TV screen. Content is displayed in a 2D format. Please note this feature is only available when playing games in VR Mode.
Do I need a separate camera to use PS VR2?
No. With inside-out tracking, PS VR2 tracks you and your controller through integrated cameras embedded into the PS VR2 headset. Your movements and the direction you look at are reflected in-game without the need for an external camera.
Can I use the PS5 HD Camera with PS VR2?
While there is no need to use an external camera to experience PS VR2 since it has four embedded cameras on the headset, the PS5 HD camera can be used with PS VR2 if you want to film yourself while playing using PS VR2’s broadcast feature.
How do I switch between playing PS VR2 games, and PS5 games on my TV?
You will be able to access the Control Center during your play session to easily switch between PS VR2 and PS5 content.
Will PS VR2 receive system updates?
System updates for PS VR2 will be available through the PS5 console and players will be required to update to the latest version available.
How can I pre-order PS VR2?
In the U.S., U.K., France, Germany, Belgium, Netherlands and Luxembourg, players can pre-order PS VR2 from PlayStation’s online store at direct.playstation.com.
In other markets, PS VR2 will be sold at participating retailers.
What tips do you have to clean and maintain PS VR2?
For the PS VR2 headset and PS VR2 Sense controller surfaces, connectors, and ports, wipe clean with a soft dry cloth. Do not use thinners, benzine or alcohol. For lenses, wipe only with a soft, dry cloth made specifically for lens cleaning. Do not use paper towels or tissues that are not intended for lenses.
The lightshield can be removed from the PS VR2 headset and cleaned using water. Wipe the water off with a soft, dry cloth. Before using, air dry the light shield well in a place with good ventilation, before reattaching it back to the PS VR2 headset.
The integrated vents in the headset can be cleaned using a handheld vacuum cleaner to remove any dust buildup.
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The Headset
What is the video output in the headset?
The PS VR2 headset offers 4K HDR. The headset’s OLED display supports up to 2000×2040 per eye and refresh rates of 90/120Hz.
Can the headset be adjusted for different head sizes?
Yes, similar to the first-generation PS VR headset, PS VR2 has an adjustable scope, a headband release button that can stretch or tighten the width of the band, and a headband adjustment dial to further tighten the band and fix the positioning.
Can further adjustments be made in the viewfinder/scope area?
Yes, PS VR2 has a new lens adjustment dial, so you have an additional option to match the lens distance between your eyes to optimize your view.
Can I wear my glasses inside of the headset?
Yes, PS VR2 was designed to accommodate players who wear glasses. However, some very wide or unusually shaped glasses may not fit.
How is PS VR2 headset design an improvement over PS VR?
We received a lot of positive feedback on PS VR’s comfort, so we kept some of the same ergonomic features players will be familiar with, such as the simple headband that can be adjusted to fit the wearer’s head, and careful weight distribution in the headset so it feels light and comfortable.
We also created a slimmer design with an overall weight reduction – even with the new added features such as the built-in motor for the headset feedback. For PS VR2, we took comfort a few steps further by adding new features, such as the adjustable lens dial and new integrated exhaust vent to help minimize lenses fogging up while players are immersed in a VR game.
What additional sensory features are added compared to the first PS VR headset?
The headset feedback allows game designers to apply sensory feedback to the player’s head, increasing the feeling of immersion.
The PS VR2 headset can also detect the motion of your eyes using eye tracking, which has many possibilities for game design. Though game applications vary, some games allow you to look at an item to select it. This allows you to interact more intuitively in new and lifelike ways, allowing for a heightened emotional response and enhanced expression that provide a new level of realism in gaming.
Does the headset have PlayStation symbols embedded in it?
Yes, similar to the thousands of tiny PlayStation symbols we added to the surfaces of the PS5 console and DualSense controller, we also included tiny PlayStation symbols to the front and back bands of the PS VR2 headset. This adds a texture for a tactile feel for you to enjoy.
Does the headset have in-built mic, controls, and buttons?
The headset features a built-in microphone, a power button, and a function button that can switch to See Through View or mute/unmute the microphone.
Does the headset have a stereo headphone jack?
Yes. It’s the same placement as the original PS VR headset.
How long can I wear the PS VR2 headset for?
Taking inspiration from PS VR, PS VR2 is designed for comfort and can be worn for extended periods of time. Players’ responses to VR gameplay can differ, but generally, the vast majority of gamers should be able to enjoy playing on PS VR2. We recommend taking frequent breaks, and if you experience any discomfort, discontinue playing.
The PS VR2 headset is not for use by children under age 12.
Can I move around while wearing PS VR2?
Limited movement is okay when playing content that uses the “Roomscale” VR Play Style, if you stay within the play area while using PS VR2. You’ll get a warning if you move close to the boundary area that you’ve set up in your customized play area.
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PlayStation VR2 Sense Controller
What are the PS VR2 Sense controller features and buttons?
Motion Sensor: Six-axis motion sensing system (three-axis gyroscope + three-axis accelerometer)Capacitive Sensor: Finger Touch DetectionIR LED: Position Tracking
Feedback
Trigger Effect (on R2/L2 button), Haptic Feedback (by single actuator per unit)
Port
USB Type-C® Port
Communication
Bluetooth® Ver 5.1
Battery
Built-in Lithium-ion Rechargeable Battery
Weight
Approx. 168 g (5.93 oz) per controller
External Dimensions
137mm x 135mm x 107mm (5.4 x 5.3 x 4.2 inches) (width x height x depth) per controller
The new PS VR2 Sense controller enables players to feel and interact with games in a much more visceral way. There are several features, including key features from PS5’s DualSense controller, which match SIE’s vision for what the next-generation of VR games can be.
Adaptive Triggers: Each PS VR2 Sense controller (Left and Right) includes an adaptive trigger button that adds palpable tension when pressed, similar to what’s found in the DualSense wireless controller. For instance, when playing Horizon Call of the Mountain, you’ll feel the tension when drawing your bow.
Haptic Feedback: Optimized for its form factor, the PS VR2 Sense controller’s haptic feedback makes every sensation in the game world more impactful, textured, and nuanced. When you’re traversing through rocky desert or trading blows in melee combat, you’ll feel the difference, magnifying the extraordinary visual and audio experience that’s so central to VR.
Finger Touch Detection: The PS VR2 Sense controller can detect the approximate location of your fingers, enabling you to make more natural gestures with your hands during gameplay.
Tracking: The PS VR2 Sense controller is tracked by the PS VR2 headset through a tracking ring across the bottom of the controller.
Action Buttons / Analog Sticks: The Left controller contains one analog stick, the Triangle and Square buttons, a “grip” button (L1), trigger button (L2) and Create button. The Right controller contains one analog stick, the Cross and Circle buttons, a “grip” button (R1), trigger button (R2) and Options button. The “grip” button can be used to pick up in-game objects, as one example.
Can I use the PS Move controller with PS VR2? Or the PS VR Aim controller?
No, only the included PS VR2 Sense controller and the DualSense controller or DualSense Edge controller for PS5 are compatible with PS VR2. There will be a compatibility notice for each title, so players can check which controllers are compatible with a specific game.
How do I turn the PS VR2 Sense controller on and off?
You can turn on the PS VR2 Sense controller by pressing the PS button on the controller. To turn it off, go to Control Center > [Accessories] > [PS VR2 Sense Controller].
How do I sync the PS VR2 Sense controller with my PS5 or PS VR2 headset?
You can pair your PS VR2 Sense controller using the included USB cable.
Connect Right PS VR2 Sense controller to the PS5 via the included USB cable
Press PS Button on the Right PS VR2 Sense controller
Repeat the same steps for the Left PS VR2 Sense controller
How will I know how much charge I have on each PS VR2 Sense controller?
When you turn on the PS VR2 Sense controller, you can check the battery’s power level on the screen, similar to how the battery indicator is displayed for the DualSense wireless controller.
How do I recharge The PS VR2 Sense controller?
The PS VR2 Sense controller can be charged using the USB cable that’s included with the PS VR2 headset.
You can also use the PS VR2 Sense controller charging station, which is sold separately.
With the PS VR2 Sense Controller charging station, you can charge the PS VR2 Sense controller through a simple click-in design, without having to connect to a PS5 console – freeing up the console’s USB ports.
Can I use the PS VR2 Sense controller without the PS VR2 headset?
Yes, the PS VR2 Sense controller will work with the PS5 console without the use of a PS VR2 headset. PS VR2 Sense controller can be used in the PS5 user interface and Media application. You cannot use the PS VR2 Sense controller for non-PS VR2 supported games.
Are there accessibility options so I can use a single PS VR2 Sense controller, or customize the controls to use only one controller?
Both of the Left and Right PS VR2 Sense controllers need to be powered on. While button remapping is supported, and whether both the Left and Right PS VR2 Sense controllers are required will vary from game to game, both controllers are recommended for most gameplay.
Will the PS VR2 Sense controller be sold separately?
PS VR2 Sense controller is not sold separately at this time.
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PS VR2 Games
How many games will be available at launch for PS VR2?
More than 30 games will be available for the launch window including all-new titles and upgraded versions of preexisting PS VR titles. Please see the full list here.
How many games are in development for PS VR 2?
There are currently more than 100 titles in development for PS VR2.
How will I know which games are PS VR2 compatible?
There will be prominent branding elements that will indicate whether PS VR2 will be supported for a specific title.
Can I play PS VR games on PS VR2?
PS VR2 is designed to deliver a truly next-generation VR experience, with advanced features such as haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, inside-out tracking, eye tracking and more. Due to this new approach to playing games in PS VR2, PS VR games are not compatible with PS VR2.
Will PS VR games receive PS VR2 updates/upgrades, and if so is there a cost?
Some games may be available for cross buy or upgrades on a title-by-title basis. The offering and any associated costs are based on the developer’s preference.
Will there be cross-gen PS VR games that work both on PS VR and PS VR2?
Some VR games will be available as a cross-gen product. The PS4 version of the game will be available for PS VR, and PS5 version of the game will be available for PS VR2.
Will PS VR2 games feature Activity Cards?
Yes, similar to games on the PS5 console, Activity Cards can be supported for PS VR2 games depending on the title.
Will PS VR2 games be digital only or will there be physical disc releases?
PS VR2 games will be available in a digital format. Physical disc releases for select titles will also be available.
Can I play PS VR2 games without the headset?
PS VR2 games are designed for PS VR2 and will require a headset. It will be noted for the title that PS VR2 is required. There are also titles for the PS5 console that may include a VR mode within the console version of the game, and will be noted that it is PS VR2 compatible. To experience VR mode, a headset is required.
Broadcasting + Capture
Can I capture screenshots or gameplay capture of my PS VR2 game sessions?
Yes, the Create Menu in PS VR2 allows players to capture screenshots and videos, just as they do on PS5, but without having to leave VR Mode. You can also trim videos and share content with friends without leaving your game.
Can I share my screen with another player online who is or isn’t using PS VR2?
Yes, you can share your screen with another player online. Please note that Share Play is not available for PS VR2 games.
Can I broadcast my PS VR2 playthroughs?
A new broadcast feature for PS VR2 will allow you to film yourself while playing by connecting a PS5 HD Camera to the console. It’s a great way to show your movements and reactions during a boss battle and share your reactions with your fellow gamers as it happens!
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Other
If PS VR2 is not in use, will the unit switch off or do I need to disconnect it from the PS5?
By default, the PS VR2 headset will automatically shut off after 30 minutes if you are not wearing the headset and exit a PS VR2 game. The default timing can be changed in the Power Saving settings.
You can also manually turn off the PS VR2 headset by using the power button on the PS VR2 headset, or by going to Control Center > [Accessories] > [PlayStation VR2] in the system UI menu.
Is there a unique on-screen PS VR2 UI?
The UI for PS VR2 is similar to the UI for the PS5 console when watching on the TV screen. However you will notice minor optimizations when viewing the UI through the PS VR2 headset.
This includes the layout for sections such as the Control Center and Create Menu, the position of the notification display and how the font is rendered for optimization.
Do I need a TV to use PS VR2?
A TV is required to set up the PS VR2 unit for the first time. Once you complete the set up, a TV is not required for general PS VR2 game play.
Can I turn off my TV screen while using PS VR2?
Yes, you can turn off your TV screen while you are playing PS VR2.
What accessibility options does PS VR2 support?
Accessibility features available for the PS5 console, except for Zoom, will be available for PS VR2. This includes Color Correction, Invert Color, and Custom Button Assignment. Some games will also support additional in-game accessibility options.
Are there any parental controls built into PS VR2?
Yes, parental control settings are available and can be customized on the PS5 console for PS VR2.
Can two people using PS VR2 headsets play together on one PS5 console?
No. The PS5 console only supports one PS VR2 headset at a time.
Do I need to be connected to the internet to play PS VR2 games?
Internet connection requirements will vary by title. An internet connection is required to download purchased games and software updates.
The Negro Leagues are an important part of baseball and American history, whose iconic figures are not nearly as well-known as other baseball players of the era. We plan to use MLB The Show as a gateway to expose new generations of baseball fans to these historic figures and their stories of triumph over adversity.
You might be asking yourself how we’ll accomplish such a daunting task? Enter Storylines * a new game mode in MLB The Show 23. Focused on a particular player, users will experience an entertaining narrative journey through short informational videos, followed by gameplay reflecting important moments in that player’s career.
Storylines in game menu
We could not be happier to finally introduce the Negro Leagues into MLB The Show! It’s a special project for San Diego Studio and we are so grateful and appreciative to be partnering with the families of the players, theNegro Leagues Baseball Museum and NLBM President Bob Kendrick to bring these stories to life in a video game.
MLB The Show 23 (Storylines Season 1 *) introduces eight Negro League Players and their stories, narrated by Bob Kendrick. With this multiyear partnership with the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum our goals align with the museums to educate, enlighten, and inspire by celebrating the rich history of the Negro Leagues. Every new launch of MLB The Show represents a new Season, with it we’ll introduce a new group of Negro League Legends and their stories to pay rightful tribute to these mostly unknown baseball superstars. MLB The Show 23 represents the inaugural season and next year’s game would be season 2.
The Season 1 roster for MLB The Show 23 includes: Leroy “Satchel” Paige, Jackie Robinson, Andrew “Rube” Foster, Hilton Smith, Hank Thompson, John Donaldson, Martin Dihigo, and John Jordan “Buck” O’Neil.
To celebrate the historic partnership with the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum. MLB The Show and San Diego Studio are happy to announce we’ll donate $1 to the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum for every MLB The Show 23 Collector’s Edition sold in the US. Including the Digital Deluxe and The Captain Edition from today through December 31, 2023.
The Negro League Baseball Museum is a national institution dedicated to preserving the rich history of black baseball and its impact on America. You can learn more about the museum here.
Be sure to join us this Thursday for a deep dive into the new mode Storylines with special guest Negro Leagues Baseball Museum President Bob Kendrick. You can watch the episode on Twitch and YouTube or watch on-demand at your own convenience as we get closer to launch.
On February 22, the enhanced version of Pistol Whip relaunches on PlayStation VR2. This Day one title — intensified by exclusive haptic feedback — will define just how physical a physical action rhythm game can be.
PS VR2 users will benefit from internal upgrades like SSD optimization, which reduces load times and scene transitions; however, the focus today is Pistol Whip’s iconic gameplay, made more immersive than ever, thanks to haptic feedback.
The reimagined PlayStation VR2 Sense Controllers, equipped with finger touch detection and a six-axis motion sensing system, create a more realistic firing experience: discover unique reload SFX for different weapons and changing resistance, including a haptic for dry fire. Additionally, three kinds of melee SFX provide varying sensations when Pistol Whipping different enemies.
“When implementing the adaptive triggers, we found a number of ways to provide controller feedback,” Explains Mike L., lead haptics engineer for PS VR2. “Now players will feel an increasing resistance as they pull the trigger, flattening out shortly before drawing it far enough that the weapon fires, at which point resistance drops to zero.”
The PS VR2 headset’s native vibrations work in conjunction with controller feedback and 3D audio, which respond to in-game impact – or near misses. By dynamically adjusting sound positioning, players will hear and feel bullets whizz by their heads.
With a roadmap that suggests plenty of new Pistol Whip content coming this year, lucky PlayStation VR2 users can download this shiny new edition right away; just in time to practice for the upcoming releases.
While Gran Turismo Sport offered a tantalizing taste of the GT experience using the original PlayStation VR, letting users don the headset for a limited slice of the game, Gran Turismo 7 supports PS VR2 with no such compromises. The cars, tracks, races, and license tests are all here (with the exception of split-screen support), and playing the game again with the new headset and DualSense controller is nothing short of revelatory—even as someone who logged more than 200 hours on the track throughout 2022.
Here are four reasons to be excited about buckling up for GT7 in PlayStation VR2.
Big surprise—it looks amazing
Gran Turismo 7 is a stunner, but I assumed the conversion to PS VR 2 might entail some obvious (but understandable) compromises. That said, I’m pleased to report that my concerns were unfounded, as the game looks marvelous in its VR conversion. Image quality and clarity are dramatically improved over those of GT Sport, and I never felt myself weighing the pros and cons of the visuals compared to simply playing on a “flat” TV display. In short, the game looks great and really highlights the virtues of PS VR2.
Ogle your all-time favorite cars in the VR Showroom
Players can now look around any of the 450+ cars in the game using the VR Showroom, which is accessible from your Garage. This feels like the natural culmination of Polyphony’s incredible efforts in bringing each car to life; the plastics, wood paneling, leather, vinyl, and plastics are now viewable at your leisure. Getting up close and personal with various stereo systems, dashboards, and dials is (weirdly) one of the things I’m most looking forward to once I have a PS VR2 at home. The novelty of peering around the back seats of each car can’t be understated.
Head tracking is a game changer
While it may sound unremarkable on paper, being able to freely look around during a race—with your view untethered from the front of your car—provides tangible benefits, both in terms of performance and presence within the virtual world. For example, while driving into a sharp corner, it’s possible to look beyond the immediate turn to the rest of the track and plan your next move. This is one of those intuitive “real life” driving behaviors that feels somewhat uncanny to experience in a game.
A newfound sense of scale and speed
Another upshot of the “I’m actually driving a Mazda 787B” feeling is a newfound sense of…claustrophobia and danger (in a good way!). Motorsport can be quite dangerous, and those of us with no personal experience can get a better sense of that in VR: the increased tangibility of a race car’s purpose-built, rough-and-ready interior, along with real limitations on visibility (narrower windshields, roll-bars, etc.), dramatically heightens the sense of speed and intensity of a race.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, PS VR2 offers a new perspective on the track environments themselves. For example, the mountain range at Dragon Tail feels genuinely huge and imposing, and the desert at Willow Springs somehow feels, well, more desert-like—the vast emptiness of this Southern California expanse is perceptibly vast and empty. It’s a sensation I’ve never had in a game before and it made tearing around the arid landscape feel liberating.
My time with GT7 also highlighted one incidental benefit of the new PS VR2 hardware that I hadn’t previously considered: since the headset no longer requires a camera to track your position in 3D space, you no longer must be overly concerned with your position relative to the TV. It’s a small change that I anticipate will make me far more likely to use the headset during daily play sessions.
The free Gran Turismo 7 PS VR2 update hits February 22.
