Hello Games Adds Eye-Tracking Rendering to No Man's Sky PC VR

Hello Games has introduced dynamic foveated rendering, a technique leveraging eye-tracking, to the PC VR version of its game No Man's Sky as part of its latest Cosmos update. This feature is designed to reduce hardware rendering stress and improve game performance.

The developer had previously added similar eye-tracking functionality to the PlayStation VR2 version of No Man's Sky in August 2023. While some players reported visual blurriness with the PS VR2 version at the time, some users who have experienced both PC VR and PS VR2 versions now suggest the earlier PS VR2 iteration offered better visuals.

The timing of this update is notable, occurring as Valve prepares to release its upcoming Steam Frame VR headset, which supports eye-tracking. While several eye-tracking VR headsets exist, SteamVR's hardware survey data indicates that PlayStation VR2 and Meta Quest Pro are the most commonly used eye-tracking compatible devices on the platform.

Considering the significant monthly user base of SteamVR, Hello Games' integration of dynamic foveated rendering for PC VR may be intended to align with the launch of the Steam Frame. This could provide Valve with promotional opportunities and potentially attract more players to No Man's Sky.

Valve has not yet announced specific launch details or pricing for the Steam Frame headset. However, indications suggest its release is imminent. Previous reports have also speculated that users of the Steam Frame might receive the game Half-Life: Alyx for free.