Buyer’s Guide
In 2005, Sony’s PlayStation Portable was the acclaimed gadget of the year. It drew huge attention, attracting gamers of all levels to the fascinating advancement of the system. How, all the hype was somewhat overshadowed by the hefty price tag and early hardware issues. Since then, the price has came down to a reasonable $199, and all of the major bugs have been wiped out. Today, the PSP remains a high quality device perfect for gaming on-the-go. However, the PSP is still a big investment. Hopefully this guide will give potential buyers an unbiased analysis of the system including its advantages and disadvantages.
Positives
- Beautiful graphics
- Cinematic widescreen display
- Multifunctional (music, video, games)
- Advanced WiFi support
- Fruitful game library
- Stylish design
Negatives
- No homebrew support
- A small analog nub
- Fragile/delicate
- Unprotected display
Other Options
The secondary options to the PSP include the Nintendo DS and Gameboy Advance. Other devices such as the iPod, nGage, and cell phones also have similar functions to the PSP. The Nintendo DS lite is the most popular option to the PSP. The DS lite has a smarter interface design (covers display, button placement), but falls behind in hardware comparison. The major reason for choosing the DS over the PSP is the game library. Some complain the DS has more original and fun games. This is purely in the eye of the beholder, though. Much of the DS library’s highlights are regurgitated games from Nintendo’s other consoles.
Before You Buy
The PSP is a lot of fun, and Sony has done a great job at cleaning up all the bugs found in early hardware models. However, like any gadget, it has some minor issues that you should be aware of. First of all, the screen is easily smudged. It can also get scratched up if you don’t have a proper case for it. To solve these problems, you will need a PSP screen protector — a thin strip of plastic that guards the screen. The PSP is also relatively fragile and shouldn’t get wet, be dropped, or other wise have significant force put on it. So it would be wise to invest in some kind of hard-shell case to protect it when not in use (we recommend PlayGear Pocket).
Also note, to use any online functions you will need to be in range of a WiFi hotspot. You may want to look into getting a USB-Wifi stick for when you’re at home. However, if you’re not that serious about going online, you can still get online at any hotspot like airports, hotels, restaurants, etc.
The PSP Core package doesn’t come with a memory stick, and the bundle only includes 32mb. If you want to watch movies or any other media, you will need at least a 256mb stick.
Let’s review. Recommended accessories:
- Screen protector
- Hard-shell case
- Wifi adapters
- Memory Stick Duo (256+)
