Xbox Finally Has a VR Headset, But It's Not the PSVR 2 Rival I Was Hoping For

Introduction

For years, I've been eagerly awaiting the release of an Xbox VR headset. Since PlayStation launched PSVR back in 2016, Sony has dominated the console VR market, especially with the recent release of PSVR 2. Microsoft, on the other hand, has been noticeably absent from the VR scene. Given Microsoft's extensive experience in gaming and its robust Windows platform, it seemed inevitable that they would eventually enter the VR market. However, what we got was not quite what I had in mind.

The Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition

The wait for an Xbox VR headset finally came to an end with the announcement of the Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition. This limited edition headset, a collaboration between Microsoft and Meta, offers a unique blend of Xbox branding and Meta's VR technology. While it's certainly a step in the right direction, it doesn't quite live up to my expectations of a true PSVR 2 rival.

The Hardware and Bundle

The Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition is available for $399 at Best Buy and £379 at Argos in the UK. Despite Xbox's warnings that the headset would be in short supply, it remains readily available. The bundle includes a black version of the Meta Quest 3S, an Elite head strap, three months of Game Pass Ultimate, and an Xbox controller. While this package is undoubtedly attractive, it's hard to justify the $100 premium over the standalone 256GB version of the headset.

The Reality of Xbox's VR Strategy

The Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition is emblematic of Xbox's recent hardware strategy. Instead of developing new devices independently, Xbox has opted to create branded versions of existing successful products. This approach leverages the popularity of existing devices and integrates them into the Xbox ecosystem through Game Pass and Play Anywhere initiatives. While this strategy has its merits, it doesn't quite satisfy the desire for a truly innovative and competitive VR headset from Microsoft.

The Potential for a True Rival

What I had hoped for was a VR headset that could genuinely compete with Meta's offerings. A refined version of Windows, combined with a mixed-reality interface, could have positioned Xbox as a serious contender in the VR market. The upcoming Valve Deckard, which will feature SteamOS, seems to be heading in this direction, and it's something I believe Xbox could have achieved.

The Market Demand for Mixed-Reality HMDs

The VR market is in desperate need of more affordable mixed-reality head-mounted displays (HMDs). If Microsoft were to develop its own VR headset, it could significantly impact Sony's market share. PSVR 2, which launched just before mixed reality became mainstream, could benefit from standalone spatial computing capabilities, giving it an edge over Meta's Quest headsets.

The Role of Game Pass

Microsoft's hesitation to fully commit to VR might stem from its lack of original VR games. Game Pass, already a fantastic value for gamers, could be even more appealing with a selection of VR titles. This year, PlayStation Plus has lost some of its standout VR games, such as Walkabout Mini Golf VR, Kayak Mirage, Before Your Eyes, and Job Simulator. If Game Pass could secure similar VR titles, it would make the subscription even more attractive.

The Future of Xbox in VR

Despite the current arrangement with Meta, I believe there is still room for Microsoft to make a more significant impact in the VR market. The success of the Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition could demonstrate to Xbox that there is a demand for VR within their user base. I hope that this limited edition headset is just the beginning of a more substantial commitment to VR from Microsoft.

Conclusion

While the Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition is a welcome addition to the VR market, it doesn't quite meet the expectations of a true PSVR 2 rival. The collaboration with Meta is a strategic move, but it lacks the innovation and competition I had hoped for. As the VR market continues to evolve, I eagerly await the day when Xbox steps up and delivers a VR experience that truly stands out.

For more on VR, check out the best PSVR 2 deals and bundles or the best Meta Quest accessories. If you want a rig that's VR-ready, check out the best gaming PCs