PlayStation VR2 Pre-Orders Open as Russia Sees steep Price Jump Ahead of February Launch
Sony has begun accepting pre-orders for the PlayStation VR2, the latest high-end virtual reality headset designed to work with the PlayStation 5. The official sale date in many markets is set for February 22, 2023, and in some Russian retail channels the device carries a price tag that has many shoppers doing a double take. In local currency the headset is listed around 70,000 rubles, a figure that dwarfs even the higher end versions of the PS5 console released alongside it. The contrast underscores how currency shifts and market conditions can influence the perceived value of cutting-edge gaming hardware in different regions.
Unofficial sales in Russia were expected to begin around March 30, but at the time of the pre-order push, the store catalogs did not yet feature catalog entries for compatible games specific to the VR2. The PS5 itself, also available in Russia, is typically priced lower than the VR2 bundle in this market context, with local listings commonly around 50,000 rubles. The gap helps explain why many potential buyers are weighing the VR2 investment against other next-generation console options available to them.
Comment threads accompanying the pre-order announcement reflected a mix of surprise and skepticism. Some users questioned the sizable ruble price tag, noting the sizeable difference between the dollar price announced by Sony and the local street price seen by Russian shoppers. A common sentiment ran along the lines of questioning how the exchange rate and regional duties translate into such a sharp price increase, particularly given how markets routinely adjust to currency movements and import costs.
When Sony announced the VR2 price in November 2022, it was set at $550, which translated to roughly 41,500 rubles at the time based on prevailing exchange rates. In local markets like Russia, that official price point effectively doubles once the currency conversion and market dynamics are taken into account. Stories of this kind are not unusual when premium tech crosses borders, but they tend to spark conversations about value for money, local taxation, and the availability of streaming services and games tuned for regional audiences.
Included with the PlayStation VR2 purchase are the Sense controllers and the stereo headset. A charging station for VR controllers is available as a separate accessory. One notable practical advantage highlighted by industry watchers is the headset’s ability to connect to the console using only a USB-C cable, which simplifies setup and reduces desk clutter for players who want a quick, straightforward VR experience. This streamlined connectivity is frequently cited as a usability edge over earlier models and is a feature many buyers weigh against the total package price.
In markets outside Russia, according to official communications, consumers typically receive the VR2 headset alongside its controllers and cables, with bundled accessories designed to deliver immediate immersion. Analysts point out that the real test for the VR2 will be the library of compatible titles and the availability of appealing experiences at launch and in the months that follow. Without a strong lineup of games, a premium hardware price can feel harder to justify, even for tech enthusiasts who crave the latest in virtual reality tech.
As the launch window approaches, buyers in North America and Europe can expect similar bundles and accessories, but regional pricing will reflect local taxes, shipping costs, and retail ecosystems. Prospective purchasers are encouraged to consider not only the sticker price but also potential ongoing costs for software, subscriptions, and any peripheral gear that enhances the VR experience. Marketers and retailers continue to emphasize ease of use and immediate compatibility with the PS5’s performance capabilities, aiming to deliver a seamless VR experience straight out of the box.
For those curious about how the PS VR2 stacks up against previous VR devices, the new model brings updated sensors, improved display quality, and more precise motion tracking. Reviewers have noted that the design leans into comfort for longer sessions, with improved ergonomics that help reduce fatigue during extended gameplay. The headset’s integration with the PS5 ensures that users can leverage the console’s processing power to drive richer visuals and smoother frame rates, making the VR experience feel more responsive and immersive than ever before. In this context, price movements in different regions become a practical consideration for families, hobbyists, and gamers who are deciding whether to invest in a premium VR setup now or wait for a potential price adjustment or a broader game library that could broaden the value proposition. [citation needed]
Retail and consumer guidance suggest monitoring official Sony channels for confirmed pricing, availability, and game announcements in each region. Interested buyers should verify whether a bundled charger or stand is included in their local package and assess whether a charging solution for the controllers is offered separately at retail. As the VR ecosystem evolves, the early adopters in major markets are likely to set the tone for how quickly new experiences and accessories enter the marketplace, shaping the overall perception of the VR2 as a long-term investment in home entertainment and interactive play. [citation needed]