PSVR and Magic Lab head Richard Marks hired by Google

Sony’s loss is Google’s considerable gain as Richard Marks, one of the creators of peripherals like PlayStation VR, Eyetoy and PlayStation Move, has jumped to the search engine giant.

Marks spent 19 years with Sony, and from 2013 headed up the company’s Magic Lab – a small team Marks created dedicated to experimental use of technology and how it can intersect with the fundamental player experience.

A very public, vocal supporter of virtual reality and the sea change it could offer the world of gaming and social interaction, Marks joins the Advanced Technology and Projects group (ATAP) at Google, though specifics surrounding his role are unsurprisingly being kept under wraps for the time being.

Releasing a statement to VentureBeat, Google said, “ATAP is at the intersection of science and application where our goal is to solve significant problems and close the gap between what if and what is. We’re super excited about Richard joining the senior team and look forward to his contributions.”

The move gives more credence to rumours surrounding Google’s aspirations in the gaming sphere, with rumblings surrounding the company’s intention to release a Chromecast-style console based on streaming technology.

As well as Marks, Google has hired the likes of Jack Buser, of PlayStation Home fame, Xbox Live Arcade creator Greg Canessa, and another former high-ranking Sony official in the shape of Phil Harrison.