|
Sony’s latest piece of hardware sure is pretty.
The PSP, released around a month ago, has received near universal critical acclaim. Many agree that it will redefine portable game. The fact that many PSP games are constantly compared to PS2 games certainly tells you something about the console. We’re going to take a look at the system, to note where Sony succeeded and where it could have done a little better.
The first thing people notice about the PSP is the screen. The huge, 4.3” widescreen TFT LCD screen is wonderful. Of course, this can be attributed to its high-resolution (480x272) and color display (16.7 million colors). The viewing angle is also incredible, particularly for a LCD. Unfortunately, it isn’t perfect. The refresh rate isn’t top-notch, as you’ll experience some ghosting. This is apparent in some games more than others. The problem appears to be worst when there is a lot of red in the screen. Nonetheless, it a small caveat to an otherwise perfect screen. The built-in speakers don’t stay far behind, though, providing crisp and clear stereo sound.
Aside from the screen, the whole system is put together very well. One look at the PSP and it is readily apparent that this is an expensive portable device, rather than a children’s toy. The glossy black finish, multitude of LED indicators, myriad of buttons, and of course, the mandatory “Sony,” “PS,” and “PSP” logos all add to the PSP’s naturally eloquent style. The back of the system doesn’t have much going on except the battery and UMD drive. The UMD drive opens via a switch on the top of the PSP, and although it appears delicate, it actually seems durable.
Subjective aspects aside, the PSP is also quite ergonomically correct. It appears like a Dual Shock controller at first glance, with the typical D pad and face buttons found. Some limits have been placed, though, to fit everything into a decent-sized portable. Gone are the four shoulder buttons, the PSP only has two. Also gone are the two analog sticks, instead you’ll receive an analog nub, which functions sort of similarly. Basically, you’ll be sliding this in the direction you wish to move it. It takes some getting accustomed to, but once you do, it is generally preferable to the D pad. Speaking of adjustments, you’ll also need to get used to the PSP’s slimmer nature. Unfortunately, this causes some cramping after extended play sessions.
The PSP’s interface is also top-notch. It is basically divided into five categories: Settings, Game, Pictures, Movies and Music. The settings include every possible setting you would want to change on the PSP. The other four correspond to the different functions of the PSP. Selecting one of them will cause a drop-down menu to appear. Here, you’ll be able to select the source for the type of media. This can be UMD or Memory Stick. The interface is extremely slick, and easy to use.
The PSP’s capabilities have been well-documented. Aside from playing games, you’ll be able to load pictures, listen to music (from the Memory Stick or later via UMD-Music discs), or watch a movie (again from the Memory Stick or the currently-available UMD Video Discs). All of these function well, although they are hardly a substitute for dedicated machines. That said, as additions to a game device, they are welcome.
The last major feature is the wireless networking. The PSP can connect to other PSPs wireless for local multiplayer. It can also connect to Wi-Fi wireless networks to get online. You can’t officially browse the web (although it is possible via a flaw in Wipeout Pure) but many games already support online multiplayer. It is great to be able to play online on a portable.
The staff of PGNx Media is very enthusiastic about the PSP. There are a few quirks like the somewhat limited music playback (especially when compared to an iPod, but noticeable regardless since you can’t browse by artist or album title, although you can make playlists), somewhat-questionable LCD refresh rate, lack of shoulder buttons and analog sticks, and cramping when played for extensive game sessions. That said, the game functions, movie playback, mostly-awesome screen, intuitive interface, and online capabilities more than offset these negatives. -- Jose Liz, PGNx Media
---- Apr 27, 2005 Screenshots
    
|
