Xbox co-creator sees no value in VR gaming as Sony slashes the PSVR 2 price

Despite the slow sales of Xbox consoles, the PSVR 2 has not been a compelling reason to opt for a PS5. Desperate for more support, Sony will cut the price of the VR headset to $400 in March. Now, Seamus Blackley, the co-creator of the first Xbox, has assessed the state of VR gaming. Blackley claims VR lacks a killer app or the structure to immerse players in titles.

After meeting Bill Gates in 1999, Blackley eventually convinced Microsoft to create a console to rival the Sony PlayStation 2. Following his departure the company, one of his more recent projects involved augmented reality. Blackley is not opposed to cutting-edge technology but criticizes VR's role in modern gaming.

On the VideoGamer Podcast, Blackley argued that despite the freedom that VR allows, gamers need a sense of purpose. Instead of aimlessly roaming virtual settings, he stresses that a focused narrative is necessary to guide gamers. So far, developers have struggled to mesh an enthralling gaming experience with VR technology.

Blackley's other criticisms about clumsy VR headsets seem harsh, as the peripherals have become more comfortable to wear. Regardless, even though Microsoft Windows embraced Meta Quest VR headsets, Phil Spencer agrees with Blackley. Xbox has moved to a multi-platform strategy, and the Microsoft Gaming CEO is against any wired device that only connects to a single console.

Game developers seem reluctant to invest in the PSVR 2, and have produced few recent compatible AAA titles. Sony even released a PC adapter to make the VR headset more appealing. The Meta Quest line shows that there is a market for a wireless option with a vast app library. Microsoft may be tempted to change its stance if more buyers demand a premium VR gaming experience.