You might be aware that PS5 is going to include native VR support. Will Xbox Scarlett? Probably not, judging by some recent comments from Xbox boss Phil Spencer on the subject of Xbox Scarlett VR. A lot of gamers may not care about this. But if VR is something you are excited about, you may be in for a disappointment.
What Phil Spencer Had to Say About Xbox Scarlett VR
While talking with Stevivor, Spencer said, “I have some issues with VR — it’s isolating and I think of games as a communal, kind of together experience. We’re responding to what our customers are asking for and … nobody’s asking for VR. The vast majority of our customers know if they want a VR experience, there’s places to go get those. We see the volumes of those on PC and other places … I think we might get there eventually. But yeah, that’s not where our focus is.”
We agree with some elements of what Spencer had to say while questioning others. VR has yet to really take off, because the technology just hasn’t gotten to that point yet. So, investing in it might not make a lot of sense for Microsoft right now. If they were going to forego a feature that PS5 will have, it makes sense that it would be this.
But, on the other hand, is VR really “isolating?” We’re not sure why it would be. VR can be suitable for online gaming. Also, as far as gaming with people you know in the room with you, VR headsets frequently seem to make appearances at social gatherings. They are a matter of curiosity and excitement for a lot of gamers who haven’t had the opportunity to invest in them. So, those who have them often share the experience with visiting family or friends. That doesn’t seem particularly isolating.
Recently, Microsoft revealed that while it is not focused on Xbox Scarlett VR next gen, it is focused on first party exclusives. As we find out more about the Xbox Scarlett and the PlayStation 5, we will keep you posted.