The launch of the Sony VR2 headset was highly anticipated, but it fell short of expectations. Despite the headset’s strong technology and features like an improved field of view, resolution, and ergonomics, pre-order numbers proved to be lower than anticipated. As a result, the company has had to make some drastic production cuts, reducing shipment numbers by half.
Customers have expressed their disappointment in the launch, citing both the VR2’s high price and the lack of compelling content available. Some have also pointed out the headset’s lack of backwards compatibility, meaning that they’d have to purchase new games or use old ones at a lower frame rate.
Sony, however, has responded to the lackluster performance, vowing to improve the headset’s content offering and bolster the catalog of PlayStation-exclusive titles. They have also lowered the price of the headset in some countries in an attempt to increase demand.
Despite these efforts, many customers still feel that the VR2 is not an attractive proposition for them. The majority of those who did pre-order the headset feel that their decision was driven more by their loyalty to the brand than by the actual product. As expressed in a recent survey, the majority of gamers feel that Sony failed to make a persuasive case for the headset and are now regretting their decision.
The VR2 Headset failure is a testament to the importance of price, compatibility and the fact that a good product can still fail despite the technology and loyalty behind it. Sony is aware of this and has taken steps to fix the situation, but with half of the original shipments having been slashed, it remains to be seen if these measures will be enough. Only time will tell.