Sony’s VR: Project Morpheus

After many predictions that Sony would unveil its virtual reality headset at GDC, last night saw the fulfillment of the rumors at Sony’s “Driving the Future of Innovation at Sony Computer Entertainment” panel.

Sony Computer Entertainment Worldwide Studios President Shuhei Yoshida unveiled the first software development kit for Project Morpheus, a VR headset intended to work in conjunction with the PS4, using the technology of PlayStation Move. Sony is concentrating on six major areas to ensure Project Morpheus is a usable and compelling experience: sight, sound, tracking, control, accessibility, and content. The dev kit has a 1080p display, 90+ degree field of view, 1000Hz tracking, and 360 degree rotation.

Many developers have been confirmed to be already working with Sony’s VR technology, including Crytek, Epic Games, and Unity. Thanks to NASA, Sony has a demo that uses Mars footage from the Curiosity rover. In fact, NASA is interested in using Project Morpheus for scientific studies. A God of War demo was also showcased. Playable demos include The Deep, which puts you in a shark cage, The Castle, which makes use of PlayStation Move, EVE Valkyrie, and certain segments of Thief. As of today, these are playable at Sony’s GDC booth.

Sony didn’t give an expected price for a VR headset, but wants it to be “affordable.” When you play games with the headset, you will be able to access both online and local multiplayer modes.

If you’re wondering about the name, it is a reference to Morpheus, the god of dreams in Greek mythology, because Sony wants usage of its VR headset to feel like being in a dream. On the other hand, several fans have taken it as a reference to the Matrix. Either way, the name works.

Well, what do you think? Is Project Morpheus a major competitor for the Oculus Rift? Is this the future of gaming? Share your thoughts–and if you happen to be at GDC to try one of the demos, let us know what it’s like!