Gaming console maker Sony Corp. is betting big on virtual reality, with a new headset and a slew of games set for release later this year, while rival Microsoft Corp. is also developing its own hardware to make use of the immersive technology.

Shawn Layden, president of Sony Interactive Entertainment America, touted the company's upcoming PlayStation VR in June just prior to the E3 video games trade show in Los Angeles.

The headset is scheduled to hit shelves in Japan for ¥44,980 (about $450) and for $399 in the United States on Oct. 13, along with game titles based on "Star Wars" and "Batman" movies. Square Enix's action role-playing game "Final Fantasy XV" and Capcom's horror game "Resident Evil 7: Biohazard" will also be added later.