Sony PSVR2 sales under pressure as price and timing weigh in
From February 22 to the end of March 2023, Sony reported sales of 270,000 PlayStation VR2 headsets. Bloomberg, citing IDC data, highlights this figure as a snapshot of the early market reception for the new headset.
Analysts attribute the subdued performance to timing and pricing. The PlayStation VR2 arrived during a period when consumers were tightening belts, and its launch price of $550 became a focal point in discussions about value and affordability. In a landscape crowded with devices and digital entertainment options, high upfront costs can dampen initial demand even for well-known brands.
Industry observers note that the current moment is challenging for high-priced VR hardware. The market sees a mix of cheaper gaming options and alternative forms of entertainment, leading potential buyers to weigh long-term benefits against upfront investment. This environment makes it harder for premium headsets to gain rapid traction despite strong brand ecosystems.
Bloomberg also suggests that Sony may consider price adjustments in the near term. A sustained high price without a corresponding drop in perceived value could limit adoption and threaten the momentum of the product line unless a strategic shift occurs.
Historically, the first generation PlayStation VR released in 2016 and reached roughly 5 million units sold over six years. Sony remains hopeful that the PSVR2 will eventually exceed the original milestone, driven by enhancements in display quality, tracking accuracy, and the broader PlayStation ecosystem. The company’s aspiration is to convert early interest into longer-term engagement as developers expand the available library and as more households adopt compatible hardware.
Note: This discussion focuses on the PlayStation VR2’s market reception and strategic considerations, without reference to external sources beyond industry data cited in market analyses.