Update: Sony claims that Bloomberg’s report is false and that it hasn’t cut PS VR2 production numbers.
The firm told GamesIndustry.biz that it is “seeing enthusiasm from PlayStation fans for the upcoming launch, which includes more than 30 titles such as Gran Turismo 7, Horizon Call of the Mountain, and Resident Evil Village.”
Original report:
The PS VR2 doesn’t release until later this month, but the higher-ups at PlayStation already seem to be sweating over its sales performance. Sources with Bloomberg have revealed that Sony has reduced projections for the initial launch of its new VR headset “dramatically,” a decision driven by what is said to be a disappointing number of pre-orders for the premium but pricey device. While PS VR2 has promised to deliver big upgrades over the original, including higher-resolution OLED displays and new Sense controllers, many gamers don’t seem to be willing to pay its recommended retail price, which is $549.99.
From a Bloomberg report (alternate link):
The company halved its forecast for shipments of the PSVR2, which is set for a Feb. 22 release, this quarter to about a million units, said people familiar with its deliberations. Sony had previously aimed to have 2 million headsets ready for the launch quarter and leverage its second-generation headset to drive user growth and adoption for VR.
The Tokyo-based electronics giant has told a supply partner to expect reduced display panel orders, according to the people, who asked not to be named as the information is not public. The company now plans to ship around 1.5 million units between this April and March next year, they added, though that figure may be adjusted further in response to demand.
Sony began accepting PSVR2 pre-orders on an invitation basis in November, but it soon relaxed conditions so that anyone wishing to buy the gadget could order one. The PSVR2 will work only with Sony’s PlayStation 5 console, which starts at $399.