While the Apple Vision Pro boasts impressive specs, its marketing position is peculiar. Many of the best VR headsets focus on gaming, and although mixed reality headsets are set to grow, the Apple Vision Pro is extremely expensive.
As the choice between Meta Quest 3 and Apple Vision Pro becomes easier each month—especially considering the Quest 3 has adopted multiple Vision Pro features and recent updates have made it seriously impressive—the Vision Pro is struggling. In fact, Apple is reportedly halting production of the Vision Pro 2, hoping that the cheaper Apple Vision Pro can generate excitement for its 'spatial computing' line of devices.
However, if you're a gamer, there’s little reason to buy the Apple Vision Pro. While titles like the exclusive Marvel's What If? experience may entice you, and the fact that SteamVR is now playable on the Vision Pro, the lack of controllers makes it a lackluster experience, especially compared to the cheaper Quest 3.
Fortunately, one company is addressing the gap Apple has left open. Surreal Interactive, a recent startup, is releasing the Surreal Touch. These self-tracking controllers offer 6DoF for the best possible experience. The controllers work with an upcoming Software Development Kit (SDK) for Vision Pro, either standalone or when using PCVR via Surreal Link. Strangely, as UploadVR points out, the company claims that Surreal Link supports "4K 120Hz SteamVR graphics," even though the Vision Pro doesn’t support 120Hz.
You can check out some gameplay of Half-Life Alyx in Apple Vision Pro, using the Surreal Touch controllers, below:
Unsurprisingly, considering Meta's controllers are some of the best Meta Quest 3 accessories, the Surreal Touch’s design feels very familiar. If you’re interested in the Surreal Touch, pre-orders open next month in August, with pricing announced at that time. If you’ve been waiting to play Half-Life: Alyx on the Apple Vision Pro, these controllers might be essential for an enjoyable experience.