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Zone of the Enders: The 2nd Runner M∀RS Buying Guide: PS4, PC and VR Versions

By Freedom251 Team · · 12 min read

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Buy the PS4 edition if you already have a PlayStation 4 and want the clearest, officially documented route to VR. PlayStation VR and a PlayStation Camera are required for its VR features. Choose the PC/Steam edition if you prefer playing on a computer, but verify the current Steam system requirements and headset support before paying because the available official information does not establish those details. You do not need a headset to play the main game: standard play is a third-person action game, while VR puts you inside Jehuty’s cockpit.

Zone of the Enders: The 2nd Runner M∀RS is a remaster of the earlier The 2nd Runner, not a new sequel. It updates the presentation, adds convenience options and training content, and includes a dedicated VR presentation. This guide explains what each edition contains, the equipment you need, PS5 compatibility, the limits of VR multiplayer, and what to check when buying a physical PS4 copy.

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What M∀RS actually is

Zone of the Enders: The 2nd Runner M∀RS revisits the second game in Konami’s Zone of the Enders series. Cygames describes the release as based on the HD Collection version, with an overhaul of the visuals and additional VR material. It is therefore best understood as an upgraded edition of an existing game rather than a sequel or a separate campaign.

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Konami’s product description highlights native 4K visual treatment, remastered visual and audio elements, and surround sound. “Native 4K” is the publisher’s description of the visual treatment; your actual output still depends on your console, display and settings. The same release is sold for PlayStation 4 and PC through Steam, with PlayStation VR identified as the console VR platform.

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The ordinary campaign remains a third-person mech-action experience. VR changes the viewpoint and presentation: the player sits in Jehuty’s cockpit in a first-person-style view. That distinction matters when choosing equipment. You can buy and play the game without a headset, then use the VR features later if you add the required hardware on PlayStation.

PS4, PC and VR at a glance

Decision PS4 edition PC/Steam edition
Officially named platform PlayStation 4; Konami also lists PlayStation VR PC via Steam
Headset requirement No headset for standard play; PlayStation VR required for VR features Konami documents a PC/Steam VR version, but the reviewed official pages do not establish a current headset compatibility list
Other VR hardware PlayStation Camera is also required for PS4 VR features Check the current Steam listing for supported headsets and hardware
Use on PS5 PS4 game is playable on PS5, with compatibility caveats Not applicable
Physical release Konami announced a limited physical release in the Americas No physical PC edition is established by the official information reviewed
Best fit Console owners, collectors and players with the documented PlayStation VR setup Players who prefer Steam and can meet the current PC and VR requirements

Should you buy the PS4 version?

Choose PS4 for the most clearly documented VR path

The PlayStation Store listing states that PlayStation VR and PlayStation Camera are required for the game’s VR features. Those are separate hardware requirements, not accessories included with the software. If you already own both devices, the PS4 edition gives you a straightforward, officially specified setup: install the game, connect the camera and headset, and select the VR content from the game.

If you only want the campaign, the same PS4 copy works without VR hardware. The headset is an optional way to experience the cockpit presentation, not a prerequisite for the main third-person game. This makes the PS4 version a sensible purchase for someone who may add VR later, provided the disc or digital license is available in the buyer’s region.

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What PS4 delivers

  • The remastered campaign and visual treatment described by Konami.
  • Remastered audio elements and surround-sound support.
  • Optional Pro Mode controls intended to make sub-weapon selection faster.
  • A Very Easy difficulty setting for players who want a lower challenge.
  • Training modules for learning the controls and combat systems.
  • A mini-map option that improves navigation during missions.
  • VR-specific extras, including a three-dimensional hangar, a Jehuty model viewer and a cinematic theater that unlocks after completing the game.

These options are additions to the remastered release; they do not turn the game into a new story campaign. The theater’s unlock condition means you should not expect all of that content to be available immediately.

Do you need PlayStation VR?

For ordinary play: no

You do not need PlayStation VR to play the standard game. Konami describes the normal action as third-person, so the PS4 or PC version can be played on a conventional television or monitor with the regular controller or your chosen PC input device.

For PS4 VR features: yes, and you need the camera too

The PlayStation Store specifies both a PlayStation VR headset and PlayStation Camera for the VR features. Buying only the game does not provide either device. Confirm that the headset and camera are compatible with your console generation and that you have the required cables and room to position the camera before planning a VR purchase.

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The store also warns that VR may cause motion sickness for some players. Start with short sessions, stop when you feel discomfort, and use the game’s non-VR mode if cockpit play is unpleasant. Motion sensitivity is personal; the warning is a health and comfort caveat, not a statement that every player will experience sickness.

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What VR changes

VR is a presentation mode centered on Jehuty’s cockpit. Instead of viewing the mech from behind in the usual third-person perspective, you look around a three-dimensional cockpit environment. The additional hangar, model-viewer and theater material is designed for that immersive presentation. The core purchase decision is therefore about viewpoint and bonus content, not a separate VR-exclusive story.

VR multiplayer limitation

Cygames identifies Versus as the two-player mode and notes that the VR version does not support two players. If local or competitive two-player action is important to you, plan to use the standard non-VR mode. Do not assume that owning two controllers or two headsets will make the VR presentation a two-player experience.

Using the PS4 edition on PS5

The PlayStation Store lists the game as a PS4 title that is playable on PS5, but it also warns that some PS4 features may be absent on the newer console. This is backward compatibility, not a separate native PS5 edition. Check the store entry for your account region before purchase if a specific feature is essential.

PS5 VR equipment caveats

When using the PS4 game’s VR features on PS5, a PlayStation Camera adaptor is required for the camera. Sony also recommends a DualShock 4 controller for the best PS VR experience on PS5. The requirement is easy to overlook if you have moved entirely to DualSense hardware: owning a PS5 does not remove the need for the PS4-era camera chain for this title’s VR setup.

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  • PS5 console with the PS4 edition installed.
  • PlayStation VR headset.
  • PlayStation Camera connected through the required PS Camera adaptor.
  • DualShock 4 recommended by Sony for the best PS VR experience.

If you only intend to play on a television, these VR-specific accessories are unnecessary. The compatibility notice matters mainly to buyers who are choosing the PS4 copy because of cockpit VR.

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When the PC/Steam version is the better choice

Advantages for a PC player

Konami identifies PC and Steam as supported platforms, and the launch announcement specifies PC distribution through Steam. The PC edition is the natural choice if your games library is centered on Steam, you want to play at a desk, or you prefer to use your computer’s display and input setup. It also avoids the need to maintain a PlayStation console.

PC hardware can vary widely, so the edition is only a good fit after you confirm that your machine meets the current storefront requirements. The official pages reviewed for this guide do not establish current minimum or recommended specifications, supported graphics APIs, operating-system versions or a definitive headset matrix. Do not rely on an old forum post or a requirement copied from another Zone of the Enders release.

What to check on Steam before buying

  1. Open the current Steam listing for Zone of the Enders: The 2nd Runner M∀RS.
  2. Read the listed minimum and recommended CPU, GPU, memory, storage and operating-system requirements for the edition currently sold in your region.
  3. Check the storefront’s VR information and supported headset notes if cockpit play is your reason for buying.
  4. Compare those requirements with your own computer, including the graphics card’s available video memory and the ports needed by your headset.
  5. Review the current update notes or user reports only as supplemental information; the storefront’s present requirements should be your baseline.

The absence of a published compatibility matrix in the material available here is a reason to verify, not a reason to assume that every PC headset works. A PC edition can run the conventional game while still requiring additional checking for VR.

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PC VR versus PlayStation VR

Both editions are described as having VR content, but the equipment ecosystems differ. PS4 has an explicit PlayStation VR and Camera requirement. PC/Steam is identified as a VR-capable version, while the reviewed official pages do not state which current PC headsets, tracking systems or controllers are supported. If VR is your primary reason to buy on PC, treat headset confirmation as a pre-purchase step rather than an afterthought.

Physical PS4 copies: what was released and what is not guaranteed now

Konami’s May 15, 2018 Americas announcement documented a limited physical PS4 release. The package was described as including a holographic cover and an embroidered patch, and the stated territory was the Americas excluding Brazil. The announcement establishes that a physical edition existed at launch; it does not establish current stock, a current price, the condition of a used disc or the contents of every regional package.

Checklist for a used or resale copy

  • Confirm that the listing is for M∀RS, not an earlier Zone of the Enders release or an unrelated HD Collection package.
  • Ask which region the disc came from. The launch promotion’s Americas limitation does not prove that identical extras were included elsewhere.
  • Check whether the holographic cover and embroidered patch are actually present if the seller advertises a complete package.
  • Inspect disc condition and verify that the seller accepts returns for an unreadable or incorrect disc.
  • Confirm that your console account and disc region can access any updates or store content you expect to use.

Do not pay a premium solely because a listing repeats the word “limited.” The historical announcement does not provide a current market valuation, and packaging extras can be missing from second-hand copies.

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Release dates and edition context

Konami announced a September 4, 2018 release in the Americas and September 6, 2018 global release. Those dates identify the launch window; they are not a promise of current digital availability, current pricing or ongoing physical production. A store page may show different availability by country, platform and account region.

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The remaster’s feature set is consistent across the publisher’s description: upgraded visuals and audio, surround sound, and the cockpit-focused VR mode. The practical differences for a buyer are therefore platform requirements, input and display setup, backward compatibility and whether you want a physical disc.

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Which version fits your situation?

You own a PS4 and no VR hardware

Buy the PS4 edition if you want a console copy and are satisfied with standard third-person play. You can add the headset and camera later, but budget for both separately and confirm that the accessories are available for your console.

You own PS VR and a PlayStation Camera

The PS4 edition is the least ambiguous choice because the store explicitly documents the required hardware. It gives you access to the cockpit presentation and VR gallery-style content without asking you to resolve a PC headset compatibility question.

You own a PS5 and want VR

Use the PS4 version through backward compatibility, but plan for the PS Camera adaptor and a camera. Keep a DualShock 4 available because Sony recommends it for the best PS VR experience on PS5, and read the store warning that some PS4 features may be absent.

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You play almost everything on Steam

Choose PC if your computer meets the current Steam requirements and you do not need a physical disc. For conventional play, this avoids PlayStation hardware. For VR, verify the current headset information on the Steam listing before purchase.

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You collect physical console editions

Look for the documented limited Americas PS4 release, but evaluate the actual disc, region and included extras rather than assuming every listing is complete. Current stock and condition are seller-specific.

Setup checklists

PS4 standard play

  1. Install the PS4 disc or download the digital edition for your account region.
  2. Update the console and game if updates are offered.
  3. Connect your display and controller, then launch the non-VR mode.
  4. Use Training modules and Very Easy difficulty if you are learning the combat systems or want a gentler first run.

PS4 VR play

  1. Confirm that the PlayStation VR headset and PlayStation Camera are both available; the store lists both as required.
  2. Connect the camera and headset according to Sony’s PS VR setup instructions for your console.
  3. Clear enough space to turn safely and keep the camera’s view unobstructed.
  4. Launch the game and select its VR content. Begin with a short session and stop if you feel motion sickness.
  5. Remember that VR does not provide the two-player Versus mode; use standard play for that mode.

PS5 using the PS4 edition

  1. Install the PS4 version on the PS5.
  2. For VR, connect the PlayStation Camera through the required PS Camera adaptor.
  3. Use a DualShock 4 if you want Sony’s recommended PS VR control setup.
  4. Check the store’s compatibility warning for any PS4 features that may be absent on PS5.

PC standard or VR play

  1. Open the current Steam listing and record the present system and VR requirements.
  2. Compare the listed CPU, GPU, memory, storage, operating system and headset requirements with your computer.
  3. Install Steam and the game, then apply available updates.
  4. Test standard play before troubleshooting VR; this separates general launch problems from headset-specific issues.
  5. If VR does not appear or tracking is unreliable, re-check the current headset support information and the headset manufacturer’s connection requirements.

Common buying mistakes and how to avoid them

Assuming the game is a sequel

The title is a remaster of The 2nd Runner. If you are looking for an entirely new story, adjust expectations before buying. The value is in the upgraded presentation, options and VR material applied to the existing game.

Buying a headset but forgetting the camera

On PS4, the PlayStation Store requires both PlayStation VR and PlayStation Camera. A headset alone is not a complete VR setup for this title.

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Assuming PS5 means native PS5 support

The store describes PS5 play as backward compatibility and warns that some PS4 features may be absent. For VR, the camera adaptor and camera remain part of the setup.

Assuming every PC headset works

Konami names PC/Steam but the reviewed pages do not provide a current compatibility matrix. Verify the live Steam listing instead of treating “PC VR” as universal support.

Expecting two-player VR

Cygames says the VR version does not support two players. Versus is a standard-mode option, not a promise of multiplayer inside the cockpit presentation.

Paying for a physical “limited” package without checking contents

The Americas launch package was described with a holographic cover and embroidered patch, but a used listing may omit either item. Confirm the exact contents, region and condition with the seller.

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Bottom line

For most console buyers, the PS4 edition is the practical choice: it offers the remastered game without requiring VR and has an explicitly documented PlayStation VR path when you add the Camera and headset. It also remains playable on PS5, provided you accept the backward-compatibility caveats and, for VR, obtain the camera adaptor and preferably use a DualShock 4. Choose PC/Steam when your priority is a computer-based library and you can verify the current system and headset requirements. Whichever platform you select, buy it as a remaster with optional cockpit VR—not as a new sequel—and treat physical stock, prices and regional extras as variables that must be checked at the time of purchase.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

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