3×2 metre play space needed for PlayStation VR

PlayStation VR will need a fairly large clear space, according to documents that have cropped up online.

Videogamer reports that a PS VR document uploaded to Reddit states a required area of 3 x 1.9 metres. Users are also required to be 0.6m back from the PlayStation Camera.

This seems quite a lot for a system that is designed for play while seated or standing, but not walking.

"Limit your use of PS VR to within the Play Area," Sony said. "The height of the Play Area depends on the range captured by the camera. Clear an area larger than the Play Area of all obstacles before using PS VR and remain seated whenever possible.

If an application requires you to stand while wearing, the VR headset, follow the application instructions carefully, and maintain awareness of your surroundings".

The space needed by rival HTC Vive depends on how it is being used. Room-scale VR, where players walk around the space, can stretch as far as 4.5 x 4.5 metres. However, seated VR can be up and running in a space as small as 2 x 1.5 metres.

Room requirements can be tough for those playing in smaller settings, such as a bedroom. The phenomenon of motion gaming space dilemmas kicked off with Microsoft’s debut of the first Kinect, which needed a nice, clear well lit room for optimum use.