Stepping into the world of virtual reality with the PSVR2 Horizon Call of The Mountain Bundle is a moment of genuine awe. As a dedicated VR enthusiast who has tested numerous headsets, the moment I donned Sony's latest offering, I knew this was a significant leap forward. This isn't just an accessory for your PlayStation 5; it's a portal to entirely new worlds. This comprehensive guide will dissect every aspect of this bundle, from unboxing to long-term gameplay, helping you decide if this is the ultimate immersive VR experience you've been waiting for.
Unboxing the PSVR2 Horizon Bundle: What's Inside?
The presentation of the bundle sets the tone for a premium experience. Inside the box, you'll find the sleek Sony VR headset itself, two PlayStation VR2 Sense controllers, stereo headphones, and all necessary cables, including the USB-C connection cable. The crown jewel, of course, is the included digital voucher for Horizon Call of the Mountain. This isn't a mere tech demo; it's a full-fledged adventure built from the ground up to showcase the PSVR2's capabilities. Having everything you need in one box, especially the critically acclaimed game, makes this bundle an exceptional value proposition compared to purchasing items separately.
Setup and Comfort: Getting Into the Game
One of the most common hurdles with VR is a complicated setup. Sony has learned from the original PSVR, and the setup process for the PlayStation VR2 is remarkably streamlined. A single USB-C cable connects the headset directly to the front of your PS5 console. The passthrough camera view makes adjusting your play area boundaries intuitive. Comfort is paramount for long sessions, and the headset delivers. The adjustable headband and scope allow for a secure, balanced fit that doesn't feel front-heavy. The inclusion of a motorized lens adjustment dial is a game-changer for those who wear glasses, ensuring a clear picture without the need for inserts.
Room Setup and Tracking: Flawless Freedom
Unlike its predecessor, the PSVR2 uses inside-out tracking via four embedded cameras. This eliminates the need for an external camera, giving you greater freedom in room placement. The tracking of both the headset and the Sense controllers is exceptionally precise. Whether you're drawing a bow in Horizon or carefully manipulating objects, the 1:1 movement feels natural and responsive, with no noticeable lag or jitter. This level of precision is foundational to the immersive experience.
Visuals and Audio: A Feast for the Senses
This is where the Horizon Call of The Mountain Bundle truly shines. The OLED HDR displays offer a stunning 2000 x 2040 resolution per eye. The colors are vibrant, the blacks are deep and true, and the high dynamic range makes scenes in Horizon breathtakingly realistic. The 110-degree field of view pulls you into the world, reducing the "goggle" effect. Combined with the headset's eye-tracking technology, which enables foveated rendering (prioritizing detail where you're looking), the visual fidelity is a generational leap beyond most consumer VR. The 3D audio delivered through the included earbuds or your own headphones is equally impressive, creating a convincing soundscape that sells the illusion of being in another place.
Gameplay with Horizon Call of the Mountain
Horizon Call of the Mountain is more than a pack-in game; it's the system's flagship title and a masterclass in VR design. You play as a new character, Ryas, and the game expertly blends climbing, exploration, and combat. The use of the Sense controllers is ingenious. You physically reach to grab handholds, nock arrows by drawing one controller behind your ear, and use tools with intuitive motions. The haptic feedback in the headset itself—simulating the rumble of a machine stomping nearby or the gentle patter of rain—adds an unbelievable layer of immersion. This title alone justifies the bundle for many, offering hours of awe-inspiring gameplay that feels like a next-gen VR gaming bundle should.
PSVR2 Sense Controllers: The Key to Immersion
The included Sense controllers are a massive upgrade. They feature the same adaptive triggers and haptic feedback found in the DualSense wireless controller, but now in each hand. Feeling the tension of drawing a bowstring or the distinct kick of a virtual weapon is transformative. The finger touch detection allows for natural gestures like pointing or making a fist, adding to the social presence in multiplayer games. These controllers are fundamental to the PSVR2 experience and are a primary reason it feels so advanced.
Is This the Best VR Headset for PS5?
When evaluating the best VR headset for the PlayStation 5 ecosystem, the answer is a resounding yes. Its direct competition is the standalone Meta Quest series, but for PS5 owners, the PSVR2 Horizon Bundle offers a plug-and-play experience with guaranteed high-fidelity graphics powered by the console. You're not compromising on visual quality for wireless freedom. The combination of eye-tracking, haptic headset feedback, and superb Sense controllers creates a feature set that is currently unique. For those seeking the pinnacle of console-based VR with a must-play title included, this bundle is the definitive choice.
Considerations and Who It's For
The bundle is ideal for PS5 owners new to VR who want a complete, top-tier entry point. It's also perfect for VR veterans looking for a significant upgrade in visual fidelity and controller innovation. The requirement for a wired connection to the PS5 may be a drawback for some used to wireless PC VR or standalone headsets, but the trade-off is in unparalleled graphical consistency and power. Ensure you have a comfortable play space of at least 2m x 2m to fully enjoy room-scale experiences.
Long-Term Value and Game Library
Beyond Horizon, the PSVR2 library is growing robustly with titles like Gran Turismo 7, Resident Evil Village, and Star Wars: Tales from the Galaxy's Edge. The quality of these ports and exclusives demonstrates strong developer support. The headset is a platform, not a one-game wonder. Investing in this PlayStation 5 VR bundle means investing in a future of high-quality VR experiences designed to leverage its unique hardware.
Final Verdict: A Defining Moment for Console VR
The PSVR2 Horizon Call of The Mountain Bundle is a triumph. It delivers a premium, next-generation VR experience that is both accessible and deeply impressive. From the stunning HDR visuals and innovative Sense controllers to the breathtaking included adventure, every element feels meticulously crafted. While the wired tether and premium price are factors to consider, the overall package offers exceptional value for the unparalleled immersion it provides. For any PS5 owner ready to step into the future of gaming, this bundle isn't just a recommendation; it's the definitive way to experience what modern virtual reality can truly achieve.
