Sony showcases its Next-gen VR controller for PlayStation 5

The upcoming VR controller from Sony for PlayStation 5 intends to take adaptive and responsive virtual experience to the next level with a host of unique features

Sony has recently teased additional details about its latest Virtual Reality (VR) controller for PlayStation 5. With this announcement, the tech giant intends to increase its presence in the VR domain for gamers.

PlayStation 5 gets a VR boost

The new VR controller draws from the innovation of Sony’s DualSense wireless controller, intending to build upon its technical prowess. The DualSense controller took the immersive VR technology feel a notch above by introducing a new way to harness the sense of touch.

Sony’s Product, Engineering, and Design teams have collaborated to build this next-gen VR controller from scratch. The aim was to create a significant leap from the currently available VR gaming ecosystem.

Design elements of PS5 VR controller

It is commendable what Sony has achieved with the design of its new controller. The structure is that of an orb, which allows players to hold the unit ergonomically. This not only provides greater flexibility, but also ensures more freedom of hand movement.

PS5’s next-gen VR is getting a new “orb”-shaped controller, designed to maximize gameplay freedom.

Read up on all the new features here: https://t.co/KnYKMEayR2 pic.twitter.com/QFgYkLnQXb

— PlayStation (@PlayStation) March 18, 2021

Sony says in adopting this design theme, the aim is to “to create unique gameplay experiences” and we couldn’t agree more!

The controller is quite well-balanced and comfortable to grip in both hands. Sony seems to have applied its expertise in studying players across different hand sizes.

This, along with Sony’s decades of experience across all PlayStation platforms, makes way for a unique visual appeal.

VR controller: Features

The new VR controller aims to make playing games more intuitive and interactive for players. New features include ones similar to the DualSense controller, in line with what next-generation VR experience should be.

Adaptive triggers

Each VR controller (Left and Right) includes an adaptive trigger button that creates tension when pressed. It is similar to the tension in the PlayStation 5’s L2 or R2 buttons.

A player can amplify his VR experience further, as this mechanism provides a sharper trajectory.

Haptic feedback

The new controller gets haptic feedback in sync with its form-meets-function element. Sony says that with this, it intends to make every sensation in the game world “more impactful, textured and nuanced”.

Gamers will certainly feel this difference while playing, as the feature enhances audio and visual experience a VR is known for.

Finger touch detection

The controller can detect finger sensations without any pressing in the areas where the thumb, index or middle fingers are positioned. This aids more eased-out hand gestures during gameplay.

Tracking

A tracking ring across the bottom of the controller tracks the new VR headset.

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.

Players can use the grip button to pick up in-game objects.

Prototypes of the new VR controller will be in the hands of the development community soon.