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E3 2004: PSP Hands-On

One of the hottest pieces of hardware at the E3 convention was also one of the smallest, (in size that is).

Sony’s PSP (PlayStation Portable) made a huge impression on anyone that could catch a glimpse at the next best thing in gaming. The 8 oz. PSP will be be able to play games, movies, and even music through small media devices known as UMDs (Universal Media Devices). These small discs will be placed through the top of the PSP and will be able to hold a very large amount of data -- capable of matching or even exceeding those of DVDs and CDs.

There was no actual in-game footage being shown on the show floor, but there were movie trailers and cinematics from videogames. The picture quality of the PSP is astonishing. Every minute detail can be made out without squinting your eyes and the widescreen format gives you even more leverage. Because of the PSPs small

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size, the speakers are placed along the top, giving room for the D-pad and buttons, as well as an outlet for speakers or headphones.

Once I had the chance to actually feel the PSP, I was even more astonished. The lightweight structure and well-placed triggers (which will be transparent atop the PSP) make for what should be hassle free gaming. The sound quality isn’t half bad either having watched and listened to a Final Fantasy VII cinematic.

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The D-pad is one of my only minor gripes. It didn’t feel as strong and durable as the other buttons and the overall quality of the PSP. However, this was still a prototype and I’m sure the real thing will have this cleaned up and perfect for release (probably in early 2005). The other buttons, the standard X, O, triangle, and square keys felt just like a Playstation controller.

Like the GBA SP, the Sony PSP will utilize a lithium-ion battery, which will be rechargeable. The specifics of the battery (longevity, recharge time, etc.) are still unknown.

In regard to regional lockouts, AE is informed that they will be in place. Quite simply, this means you won’t be able to import games from Japan to North America and expect them to work on a North American PSP. (This is in contrast to Nintendo’s GameBoy Advance, which has no regional lockouts.)

Many have tried before and all have failed to dethrone Nintendo, but come Q1 2005, we might have a new king sitting atop handheld gaming.

- Eric Lahiji

element@armchairempire.com

(May 20, 2004)