A recent change of business strategy caused potential VR buyers to really consider the Oculus Rift. More than just the price, the developer of the VR platform wants more people to have access on the new gaming technology. The Oculus Rift and Touch is originally priced at $798, but because there's a compelling need to include those who truly want the VR, the platform is now cut to $598.
The Oculus Rift was originally priced at $600 when it launched in 2016. Now, the combined Rift and Touch controllers comprises the $600 price. Nevertheless, the price is too steep compared to its rival PlayStation VR and the HTC Vive. This move from the developer has significantly allowed regular players to consider buying the VR with its reduced price.
Oculus head of project Nate Mitchell said "We know that price is definitely one of the concerns. We feel this is the right time to get really aggressive". The Oculus Kit in the past few months has been adjusting to the demands of the fans. At one point, an Oculus certified PC has been priced at $499, bridging the cap to those who truly want it.
Extremetech on the other had saw a different reason why the Oculus Rift is cutting down its price. According to its latest report, rival HTC Vive has significantly lead the market shares when it comes to VR sales, hence the Facebook owned Oculus Rift cutting down its market price. Apparently, they want a larger market share and the only way to do this is by reducing the price and trail HTC.
Previously, the PlayStation VR also cut its price for more players to be able to afford the units. And now, there's a different level of competition between the VR providers, seeking to gain more users in the future.