PlayStation VR Camera Drift Problem Fixes
Some PlayStation VR users have reported a problem with some PlayStation VR display "drifting" to the left or right during play sessions, with the image refusing to re-center. This page offers possible fixes for the PlayStation VR camera issue, and is part of IGN's overall PlayStation VR How To and Troubleshooting Guide.
Temporary Image Shifting
Viewpoint shifting can occur over time iif a player is shifting position or the lighting in the room changes. In many games, players can fix this and re-center the view by pressing and holding the Options key on the PS4 controller. Note that some software does not support a full re-centering of the image.
If the issues persist, players should also examine the PSVR camera lens and make sure they have a clear field of view, that the lens is clean, that no wires are impeding visibility between the controller/headset and the camera, and that no mirrored surfaces or lights may be confusing the camera. Players may also wish to recalibrate their PSVR. Note also that sitting closer to the camera may alleviate these issues -- though sitting too close may cause the viewpoint to shift to the other direction.
Persistent PSVR Image Drifting - Unsolved
There are also reports of a more consistent and persistent drift phenomenon that only appears with certain setups. This may be related to a fundamental callibration issue that Sony has yet to solve to ensure the PlayStation VR headset can be used effectively in a greater variety of living rooms. The cause is currently unknown, but we were able to verify the same problem with two users' setups. Swapping the camera or replacing the headset and cables did not rectify the issue.
The only fix we have been able to verify is to change the setup area completely, making it likely that the issue lies with interference from other devices or objects, such as wireless routers, projectors, or subtle reflections from tiles or windows in the room. We tested one setup with multiple headsets and nothing (changing distances, lights on/lights off, different camera positions) fixed the issue. However, moving the entire setup to another room resolved the drift problem.
So, unfortunately, your best option is to move the PSVR setup and PlayStation into a different room or change the orientation completely. Remember, the PSVR doesn't have to face the TV, letting you place the camera in a different location. Be sure to run through the setup again. You should do this for both camera and PSVR in the Devices section of Your PS4 Options menu.
If that is not an option, these three remedies are currently your only other three solutions, until Sony is able to enhance calibration or hardware to counter these tracking issues in certain setups:
- Non-disruptive: Press the Option key in-game for a temporary reset. This is an inconvenience that also existed with classic motion-controlled games. If a game doesn't support a proper reset, contact the developer.
- Disruptive: Recalibrate the PSVR headset by taking it off and placing it on a stable, even surface for 10 seconds.
- Disruptive: Restart the VR headset or disconnect/reconnect the PSVR camera. The former can be done by hitting the off-switch on your PSVR's wired remote.
Sony's other suggestions thus far are limited to simple fixes, such as ensuring the controller cable isn't obstructing the light or that vibrations on the surface the camera is sitting on (possibly from speakers) may cause the image to drift over time. We have tested these fixes at IGN and have not found them to be effective, with the drift problem occurring consistently over time. The search continues.