Setting up your VR headset for the ultimate simulation experience can be confusing, especially when switching between different devices. Many users, like yourself, are navigating the complexities of OpenXR and different VR runtimes to optimize their virtual reality experience, particularly in demanding applications such as driving or flight simulators. Let’s break down the common questions and clear up the confusion surrounding VR headset setup, focusing on how it relates to achieving peak performance, which could be considered a “quest program” for your virtual driving or simulation needs.
When it comes to VR headsets like the HP Reverb G2 and Oculus Quest 2, and software like Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 (MSFS 2020), understanding the underlying technology is key. OpenXR is a crucial component, acting as a universal API that allows applications to work with various VR headsets without needing to be specifically coded for each one. This is where files like oculus_openxr_64.json and MixedRealityRuntime.json come into play.
The core question often revolves around configuring the OpenXR “ActiveRuntime” in your system’s registry. You’ve likely encountered conflicting advice, with some sources, like a FlightSimulator Zendesk post, recommending oculus_openxr_64.json for Oculus headsets, while others suggest MixedRealityRuntime.json. Let’s clarify these points and address your specific questions to ensure a smooth transition to your new HP Reverb G2 and optimal performance for your VR experiences, whether they are related to virtual driving or flight.
To get to the bottom of this, let’s address your specific questions one by one, transforming this setup process into a clear path – a “quest program” if you will – for achieving your desired VR experience.
Understanding OpenXR Runtimes: oculus_openxr_64.json vs. MixedRealityRuntime.json
Your first question zeroes in on the difference between oculus_openxr_64.json and MixedRealityRuntime.json. These files essentially point to different OpenXR implementations, or “runtimes.”
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oculus_openxr_64.json: This file directs your system to use the Oculus OpenXR runtime. This runtime is specifically designed and optimized for Oculus headsets like your Quest 2. When this runtime is active, applications using OpenXR will communicate with your Oculus headset through Oculus’s own software layer. -
MixedRealityRuntime.json: This file points to the Windows Mixed Reality (WMR) OpenXR runtime. This runtime is the one used by Windows Mixed Reality headsets, including the HP Reverb G2. It allows applications to interact with WMR headsets using the standard OpenXR API.
For your Oculus Quest 2, using oculus_openxr_64.json as the ActiveRuntime is generally the correct approach, aligning with Oculus’s intended software pathway. While MixedRealityRuntime.json might technically work, it would likely introduce an unnecessary layer of translation, potentially impacting performance. Sticking with the Oculus runtime for Oculus headsets ensures the most direct and optimized communication.
Switching to HP Reverb G2: Changing OpenXR ActiveRuntime
Your second question is crucial for your upcoming HP Reverb G2 setup: “Should I change my OpenXR ‘ActiveRuntime’ to C:Windowssystem32MixedRealityRuntime.json when I get the HP Reverb G2?”
Yes, absolutely. When you switch from your Oculus Quest 2 to the HP Reverb G2, you need to change the OpenXR ActiveRuntime to MixedRealityRuntime.json. This tells your system to use the Windows Mixed Reality OpenXR runtime, which is essential for the HP Reverb G2 to function correctly with OpenXR applications like MSFS 2020.
Failing to switch the ActiveRuntime would mean that applications are still trying to use the Oculus runtime, which is not designed for the HP Reverb G2. This would likely result in the HP Reverb G2 not working at all, or experiencing significant issues.
Windows Mixed Reality for SteamVR: Installation for HP Reverb G2
Your third question touches on software installation for the HP Reverb G2: “For the HP Reverb G2 setup, I’ve seen YouTube videos that say I need to download and install ‘Windows Mixed Reality for SteamVR’ from the Steam store? Should I do this or will that force SteamVR instead of OpenXR VR?”
Yes, you should install “Windows Mixed Reality for SteamVR” from the Steam store for your HP Reverb G2, especially if you plan to use it with SteamVR games or applications, including MSFS 2020 when launched through Steam.
“Windows Mixed Reality for SteamVR” acts as a bridge, allowing SteamVR applications to run on Windows Mixed Reality headsets like the HP Reverb G2. It does not force SteamVR instead of OpenXR. In fact, it works in conjunction with OpenXR.
Here’s how it works:
- OpenXR Application (e.g., MSFS 2020): The application is built to use the OpenXR standard.
- OpenXR Runtime (MixedRealityRuntime.json): Your system is set to use the Windows Mixed Reality OpenXR runtime.
- Windows Mixed Reality for SteamVR: This software translates SteamVR API calls into OpenXR calls that the WMR runtime can understand.
So, when you launch a SteamVR application with your HP Reverb G2, it goes through this chain: Application → SteamVR API → Windows Mixed Reality for SteamVR → OpenXR Runtime → HP Reverb G2.
Installing “Windows Mixed Reality for SteamVR” is essential for compatibility with SteamVR content and does not bypass OpenXR; it enhances it for SteamVR integration on WMR headsets.
SteamVR Options and Headset Switching
Your final question addresses SteamVR game launch options: “I have other Steam VR programs (Project Cars for example). When I select ‘Play’ in Steam, I get 3 options… Will this change when I plug in my HP Reverb G2?”
The options you see in Steam for Project Cars (Play Project CARS, Launch Project CARS-HTC Vive in Steam VR Mode, Launch Project CARS-Oculus Rift in Oculus VR Mode) are specific to Project Cars and how it was programmed to handle different VR platforms. These options are not a standard SteamVR feature for all games.
When you plug in your HP Reverb G2, these specific Project Cars launch options are unlikely to change. They are determined by the game itself. However, when you launch Project Cars in “Steam VR Mode” with your HP Reverb G2 connected and “Windows Mixed Reality for SteamVR” installed, the game will correctly utilize your HP Reverb G2 via the SteamVR and WMR bridge.
For MSFS 2020, you do not see these specific headset options because MSFS 2020 is designed to be more VR platform-agnostic, relying heavily on the OpenXR standard. It automatically detects and uses the active OpenXR runtime.
Switching between Headsets:
To switch between your Oculus Quest 2 and HP Reverb G2, the key steps are:
- Physical Connection: Connect the desired headset (Quest 2 or Reverb G2).
- OpenXR ActiveRuntime: Change the “ActiveRuntime” registry setting to the appropriate JSON file for the connected headset:
- Oculus Quest 2:
C:Program FilesOculusSupportoculus-runtimeoculus_openxr_64.json - HP Reverb G2:
C:Windowssystem32MixedRealityRuntime.json
- Oculus Quest 2:
- Software Launch: Launch your VR applications. Ensure that if you are using SteamVR applications with the HP Reverb G2, “Windows Mixed Reality for SteamVR” is installed and running.
By understanding these distinctions and correctly configuring your OpenXR settings and software, you can confidently navigate the VR landscape and enjoy optimal performance with both your Oculus Quest 2 and HP Reverb G2, achieving your “quest” for immersive virtual experiences, whether in the realm of cars, flight, or any other simulation.
