Video Game Systems

Chapter 11 : The Playstation Portable

The Sony Playstation Portable or otherwise known as PSP was first introduced in March of 2005. Since then it has been a constant battle between Nintendo and Playstation.

With a larger screen size and more powerful resolution, the PSP is a great contender in the portable world. The PSP is basically a portable system of the Playstation 2.

The graphics between the Nintendo DS and PSP are comparable. But the PSP is also the largest around in the portable systems, which may or may not be a good thing.

The cost of the PSP is also slightly higher than that of the Nintendo DS. The average cost of the PSP is between $200 and $250, depending on which version you purchase.

The PSP has a 4.3 inch screen, which is the largest around for portable systems. The screen uses a letterbox resolution of 480x272, and has 24-bit color, meaning that it is capable of displaying millions of colors with quality that is unbeatable in portable game systems.

The PSP uses WiFi 802.11b communication protocol to enable wireless gaming for it. The PSP is capable of connecting to existing WiFi hot spots. This system may be able to download firmware upgrades over the internet sometime in the near future.

The games for the PSP come on Universal Media Discs. These are miniature DVDs created with a certain type of laser. They are capable of storing up to 1.8 gigabytes worth of data.

The biggest disadvantage of having a DVD style media devide is that accessing it is more power consuming than the card based Nintendo DS. The battery life of the PSP is significantly shorter than the DS. The PSP runs an average of 3.5 hours per charge.

The PSP is more than just a portable game system it is also a portable media center. The PSP uses a proprietary memory stick to store data and the Memory Stick Duo cards come in sizes up to about 1 gigabyte. These cards can store everything from MP3s to movies. The neat thing about these discs is they can be plugged into a personal computer loaded with music or video and put back into the PSP for playback. This is one unique feature other hand held systems don’t have. How great is it to have a portable game system that also plays music and lets you watch movies on the go.

Using the Memory Stick Duo you can easily store your digital photos, create custom wallpaper, and share your favorite photos with the image transfer feature.

There are two PSP packages available for purchase with one having accessories and the other not.

The basic PSP system is $199 and gets you the basics like;

The PSP system
Battery Pack
AC Adapter

The value Pack for the PSP gets you these items;

The PSP system
Headphones with Remote Control
Pouch and Wrist strap
AC Adapter
Battery Pack
Cleaning Cloth
Memory Stick Duo (32MB)

The final option you have with your PSP is surfing the World Wide Web.

There are several PSP accessories available:

PSP Headset- A great accessory for use with PSP titles, and the headset offers communication features for all compatible titles.
PSP Carrying Case- This allows you to carry your PSP as well as UMD movies, games and music, along with accessories in a secure compact case.
Extended Life Battery- This gives you even longer hours of portable entertainment
Headphones with Remote Control- Listen to your games, music and movies wherever you are.
Memory Stick Duo (32MB) - Downloads content, saves games, movie trailers, and other information you need for your PSP.
Battery Charger- Charges your battery outside the game system.
Car Adapter- Lets you take trips with your PSP and enjoy your entertainment when you are ready to.
Accessories Pouch and Cleaning Cloth- Take this convenient PSP pouch with you wherever you go and keep your system clean and ready to play.

Here is the list of the top ten game picks for the PSP.

Lumines puzzle game- This is what Tetris used to be to the Game Boy. You simply make four by four blocks and more drop down. Doesn’t sound too difficult, but the better you do the faster they fall.
Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories- This is a very controversial game, but it hasn’t stopped it from gaining respect from experienced gamers. This game has great graphics with its car chases, gunfights, and other elements.
Virtua Tennis- This game is one of the best sports simulations you can play. Outstanding graphics and gameplay make this a very interesting game.
Burnout Legends- This game transfers well onto the small screen. This race game is one that encourages you to crash your car.
Metal Gear Acid- This game offers a wide variety of cards and missions and can be easily figures out.
Hot Shots Golf- This fun but challenging golf game is fun for everyone. This game also adds a bit of silliness to the sport.
Untold Legends, Brotherhood of the Blade- this game is a fun dungeon crawl and is also a great multiplayer game.
Madden NFL o6- The best football game out there. The best football game out there. You can transfer your season from the PS2 to the PSP and continue playing.
Namco Museum Battle Collection- This game offers a classic gameplay with several all time favorite versions.
Infected- The best feature in this game are the zombies. It also comes with full length music videos, commentary, and scenes.

With the holidays quickly approaching us the lists for the upcoming releases are out and the word is spreading fasts on the best ones to purchase. Here are some titles that are going to be released in October of this year.