PSP Go
Encyclopedia
The PSP Go is a version of the PlayStation Portable
handheld game console
manufactured by Sony
. It was released on October 1, 2009 in American and European territories, and on November 1 in Japan. It was revealed prior to E3 2009 through Sony's Qore
VOD
service. Although its design is significantly different from other PSPs, it is not intended to replace the PSP 3000, which Sony will continue to manufacture, sell, and support. On April 20, 2011, the manufacturer announced that the PSP Go would be discontinued so that they may concentrate on the PlayStation Vita. Sony later said that only the European and Japanese versions were being cut, and that the console would still be available in the USA.
Unlike previous PSP models, the PSP Go does not feature a UMD
drive, but instead has 16 GB
of internal flash memory
to store games, video, pictures, and other media. This can be extended by up to 32 GB with the use of a Memory Stick Micro (M2) flash card. Also unlike previous PSP models, the PSP Go's rechargeable battery is not removable or replaceable by the user. The unit is 43% lighter and 56% smaller than the original PSP-1000, and 16% lighter and 35% smaller than the PSP-3000. It has a 3.8" 480 × 272 LCD (compared to the larger 4.3" 480 × 272 pixel LCD on previous PSP models). The screen slides up to reveal the main controls. The overall shape and sliding mechanism are similar to that of Sony's mylo COM-2
internet device.
Wi-Fi
like its predecessors, but no longer uses a standard USB A-to-Mini-B cable common with many devices. A new proprietary multi-use connector is used for USB
connectivity. A suitable USB cable is included with the unit. The new multi-use connector allows for charging and USB similar to previous units, as well as video and sound output with the same connector (using an optional composite
or component
AV cable), unlike previous offerings which had TV OUT and USB functionality on separate ports. Sony also offers an optional cradle for charging and USB data transfer on the PSP Go, similar to previous offerings.
The PSP Go adds support for Bluetooth
connectivity, enabling the use of compatible Bluetooth headsets and tethering with Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones. This also enables users to connect and play games using a Sixaxis
or DualShock 3 PlayStation 3 controller or Bluetooth Headset.
. While other PSP models have included the ability to run games and demos downloaded from the PlayStation Store, the PSP Go is the first for which this is the only means of distribution. The PSP Go has the demo Patapon 2
loaded onto the system and it also comes with an ESRB ratings guide, both in the internal memory in the games section. The removal of the UMD drive effectively region locks the unit due to the way in which a PSP must be linked to a single Playstation Network account. Since each account is locked to a single region, this prevents the user from ever playing games from more than one region at a time (since games from accounts other than the currently linked account cannot be started).
There are three ways to access the PlayStation Store. The PSP Go can directly download to itself, or users can also download then transfer the games from a PlayStation 3
or the Media Go software on Windows based computers. All current downloadable PSP and PlayStation
games available for older PSP models will be compatible with the PSP Go. Sony has also confirmed that almost all UMD based PSP games released after October 1, 2009 will be available for download, and a majority of older UMD-only games will also be downloadable at that time.
is available to all PS3 and PSP owners (PSP and PSP Go). A variety of developers contribute to the creation of "Minis". These games are smaller, cheaper and are available as download only. These games are available in the "minis" section of the PlayStation Store.
calling it "way too expensive" and The Guardian
stating that cost is the "biggest issue" facing the machine. Engadget
points out that the Go costs only $50 less than the PlayStation 3, which comes equipped with a Blu-ray player. Wired points out that the older PSP 3000 model is cheaper, while supporting UMDs and IGN
states that the $250 price increase makes it a "hard sell". The lack of support for UMDs and the inability to transfer games bought on UMD onto the Go and the placement of the analog stick next to the d-pad has also been criticized. Reviewers also commented on how the change from a mini-USB port to a proprietary port means that hardware and cables bought for previous incarnations of the PSP are not compatible. The Go's screen has been positively received with Ars Technica calling the image "brilliant, sharp and clear", T3
state that "pictures and videos look great". The controls have received mixed reviews with The Times
describing them as "instantly familiar" whereas CNET
and Stuff
call the position of the analog stick
"awkward". The ability to use a PS3 controller was praised by the New Zealand Herald but Ars Technica criticized the need to connect the controller and Go to a PS3 for initial setup.
In May 2010, it was revealed that Sony was now going to sell the PSP Go with ten free downloadable games in the UK
.
Sony began offering the free games in June 2010. The same offer was made available in Australia in July 2010. It has been revealed that Sony is also offering three free games for the PSP Go in America.
In October 2010, Sony announced a price drop for the PSP Go, bringing the price to $199.99.
latching technology, a speculative sign that Sony might be re-adding a UMD drive for a possible successor to the PSP Go. However in May 2010 many sources across the internet claimed that the next PSP would be a download-only device like the PSP Go. It was also rumored that the new "PSP2" would include two cameras and a touchscreen while retaining the classic PlayStation face buttons and possibly adding dual-analog thumbsticks.
In Late June 2010, Sony denied claims that they were developing "3D PSP". Sony Worldwide Studios vice president Scott Rohde stated that Sony "isn't ready" to announce a "PSP2" either.
Sony also denied that the PSP2 would be download-only like the PSP Go
Alongside price drops of the PSP Go, rumors began circulating in October 2010 that Sony had shown a prototype "PSP2" in a secret conference for stakeholders and publishers, codenamed "Vita". Unverified photos and supposed technical specifications indicated that Vita would be a hybrid game and telephone device with a sliding form factor and no optical media slot, similar to the PSP Go. By now Vita was rumored to retain the PlayStation face buttons but no analogue sticks; analogue input to be via a multi-touch strip that would simulate a pair of thumb sticks. The rumoured device's memory could be as much as 1 GB of RAM, a significant increase over that of the PSP and PSP Go. A 2011 release date was suggested but Sony representatives refused to comment on the rumors.
On January 27, 2011, Sony confirmed the release of the PlayStation Vita, then known by its codename Next Generation Portable (NGP). On April 20, 2011, SCEI announced that the PSP Go had been discontinued in order to "concentrate on NGP". However, SCEA have stated that this discontinuation does not apply to North America, where they will continue to produce the device.
PlayStation Portable
The is a handheld game console manufactured and marketed by Sony Corporation Development of the console was announced during E3 2003, and it was unveiled on , 2004, at a Sony press conference before E3 2004...
handheld game console
Handheld game console
A handheld game console is a lightweight, portable electronic device with a built-in screen, game controls and speakers. Handheld game consoles are run on machines of small size allowing people to carry them and play them at any time or place...
manufactured by Sony
Sony
, commonly referred to as Sony, is a Japanese multinational conglomerate corporation headquartered in Minato, Tokyo, Japan and the world's fifth largest media conglomerate measured by revenues....
. It was released on October 1, 2009 in American and European territories, and on November 1 in Japan. It was revealed prior to E3 2009 through Sony's Qore
Qore (PlayStation Network)
Qore is a subscription-based interactive online magazine for the PlayStation Network and replaces the Jampack series of disks offered by PlayStation Underground. Currently only available in North America, the service offers high definition videos, interviews, and behind-the-scenes footage...
VOD
Video on demand
Video on Demand or Audio and Video On Demand are systems which allow users to select and watch/listen to video or audio content on demand...
service. Although its design is significantly different from other PSPs, it is not intended to replace the PSP 3000, which Sony will continue to manufacture, sell, and support. On April 20, 2011, the manufacturer announced that the PSP Go would be discontinued so that they may concentrate on the PlayStation Vita. Sony later said that only the European and Japanese versions were being cut, and that the console would still be available in the USA.
Unlike previous PSP models, the PSP Go does not feature a UMD
Universal Media Disc
The Universal Media Disc is an optical disc medium developed by Sony for use on their PlayStation Portable handheld gaming and multimedia platform...
drive, but instead has 16 GB
Gigabyte
The gigabyte is a multiple of the unit byte for digital information storage. The prefix giga means 109 in the International System of Units , therefore 1 gigabyte is...
of internal flash memory
Flash memory
Flash memory is a non-volatile computer storage chip that can be electrically erased and reprogrammed. It was developed from EEPROM and must be erased in fairly large blocks before these can be rewritten with new data...
to store games, video, pictures, and other media. This can be extended by up to 32 GB with the use of a Memory Stick Micro (M2) flash card. Also unlike previous PSP models, the PSP Go's rechargeable battery is not removable or replaceable by the user. The unit is 43% lighter and 56% smaller than the original PSP-1000, and 16% lighter and 35% smaller than the PSP-3000. It has a 3.8" 480 × 272 LCD (compared to the larger 4.3" 480 × 272 pixel LCD on previous PSP models). The screen slides up to reveal the main controls. The overall shape and sliding mechanism are similar to that of Sony's mylo COM-2
Mylo (Sony)
My Life Online is a device created and marketed by Sony for portable instant messaging and other Internet-based communications, browsing Internet web sites and playback and sharing of media files. The pocket-sized, tablet-shaped handheld device has a screen which slides up to reveal a QWERTY...
internet device.
Connectivity
The PSP Go features 802.11bIEEE 802.11b-1999
IEEE 802.11b-1999 or 802.11b, is an amendment to the IEEE 802.11 specification that extended throughput up to 11 Mbit/s using the same 2.4 GHz band. This specification under the marketing name of Wi-Fi has been implemented all over the world...
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi or Wifi, is a mechanism for wirelessly connecting electronic devices. A device enabled with Wi-Fi, such as a personal computer, video game console, smartphone, or digital audio player, can connect to the Internet via a wireless network access point. An access point has a range of about 20...
like its predecessors, but no longer uses a standard USB A-to-Mini-B cable common with many devices. A new proprietary multi-use connector is used for USB
Universal Serial Bus
USB is an industry standard developed in the mid-1990s that defines the cables, connectors and protocols used in a bus for connection, communication and power supply between computers and electronic devices....
connectivity. A suitable USB cable is included with the unit. The new multi-use connector allows for charging and USB similar to previous units, as well as video and sound output with the same connector (using an optional composite
Composite video
Composite video is the format of an analog television signal before it is combined with a sound signal and modulated onto an RF carrier. In contrast to component video it contains all required video information, including colors in a single line-level signal...
or component
Component video
Component video is a video signal that has been split into two or more component channels. In popular use, it refers to a type of component analog video information that is transmitted or stored as three separate signals...
AV cable), unlike previous offerings which had TV OUT and USB functionality on separate ports. Sony also offers an optional cradle for charging and USB data transfer on the PSP Go, similar to previous offerings.
The PSP Go adds support for Bluetooth
Bluetooth
Bluetooth is a proprietary open wireless technology standard for exchanging data over short distances from fixed and mobile devices, creating personal area networks with high levels of security...
connectivity, enabling the use of compatible Bluetooth headsets and tethering with Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones. This also enables users to connect and play games using a Sixaxis
Sixaxis
The Sixaxis Wireless Controller was the official gamepad for the Sony PlayStation 3 from launch until 2008 when it was succeeded by the DualShock 3....
or DualShock 3 PlayStation 3 controller or Bluetooth Headset.
Games
Because the PSP Go does not feature a UMD drive, games are downloaded from the PlayStation StorePlayStation Store
The PlayStation Store is an online virtual market available to users of Sony's PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Portable game consoles via the PlayStation Network. The Store offers a range of downloadable content both for purchase and available free of charge. Available content includes full games,...
. While other PSP models have included the ability to run games and demos downloaded from the PlayStation Store, the PSP Go is the first for which this is the only means of distribution. The PSP Go has the demo Patapon 2
Patapon 2
is a video game by Sony Computer Entertainment. It is a sequel to Patapon.The game was released in Japan, Europe, and Australia before North America, and in North America it was first available only as a digital download via the PlayStation Store, as a "test case" to gauge the success of digital...
loaded onto the system and it also comes with an ESRB ratings guide, both in the internal memory in the games section. The removal of the UMD drive effectively region locks the unit due to the way in which a PSP must be linked to a single Playstation Network account. Since each account is locked to a single region, this prevents the user from ever playing games from more than one region at a time (since games from accounts other than the currently linked account cannot be started).
There are three ways to access the PlayStation Store. The PSP Go can directly download to itself, or users can also download then transfer the games from a PlayStation 3
PlayStation 3
The is the third home video game console produced by Sony Computer Entertainment and the successor to the PlayStation 2 as part of the PlayStation series. The PlayStation 3 competes with Microsoft's Xbox 360 and Nintendo's Wii as part of the seventh generation of video game consoles...
or the Media Go software on Windows based computers. All current downloadable PSP and PlayStation
PlayStation
The is a 32-bit fifth-generation video game console first released by Sony Computer Entertainment in Japan on December 3, .The PlayStation was the first of the PlayStation series of consoles and handheld game devices. The PlayStation 2 was the console's successor in 2000...
games available for older PSP models will be compatible with the PSP Go. Sony has also confirmed that almost all UMD based PSP games released after October 1, 2009 will be available for download, and a majority of older UMD-only games will also be downloadable at that time.
Minis
A section of the PlayStation StorePlayStation Store
The PlayStation Store is an online virtual market available to users of Sony's PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Portable game consoles via the PlayStation Network. The Store offers a range of downloadable content both for purchase and available free of charge. Available content includes full games,...
is available to all PS3 and PSP owners (PSP and PSP Go). A variety of developers contribute to the creation of "Minis". These games are smaller, cheaper and are available as download only. These games are available in the "minis" section of the PlayStation Store.
Reception
Reviews of the PSP Go have been mixed. It is criticized mainly for its pricing with Ars TechnicaArs Technica
Ars Technica is a technology news and information website created by Ken Fisher and Jon Stokes in 1998. It publishes news, reviews and guides on issues such as computer hardware and software, science, technology policy, and video games. Ars Technica is known for its features, long articles that go...
calling it "way too expensive" and The Guardian
The Guardian
The Guardian, formerly known as The Manchester Guardian , is a British national daily newspaper in the Berliner format...
stating that cost is the "biggest issue" facing the machine. Engadget
Engadget
Engadget is a multilingual technology blog network with daily coverage of gadgets and consumer electronics. Though on appearance Engadget functions much like a blog and may be defined as such, much of its editorial content takes the form of an online magazine...
points out that the Go costs only $50 less than the PlayStation 3, which comes equipped with a Blu-ray player. Wired points out that the older PSP 3000 model is cheaper, while supporting UMDs and IGN
IGN
IGN is an entertainment website that focuses on video games, films, music and other media. IGN's main website comprises several specialty sites or "channels", each occupying a subdomain and covering a specific area of entertainment...
states that the $250 price increase makes it a "hard sell". The lack of support for UMDs and the inability to transfer games bought on UMD onto the Go and the placement of the analog stick next to the d-pad has also been criticized. Reviewers also commented on how the change from a mini-USB port to a proprietary port means that hardware and cables bought for previous incarnations of the PSP are not compatible. The Go's screen has been positively received with Ars Technica calling the image "brilliant, sharp and clear", T3
T3 magazine
T3 magazine is a UK-based technology magazine, which specialises in gadgets, gizmos, and other technology.Originally, T3 stood for Tomorrow's Technology Today, but this isn't used anywhere in the magazine or on the website anymore. It's exclusively referred to as T3 or T3.com. The magazine is...
state that "pictures and videos look great". The controls have received mixed reviews with The Times
The Times
The Times is a British daily national newspaper, first published in London in 1785 under the title The Daily Universal Register . The Times and its sister paper The Sunday Times are published by Times Newspapers Limited, a subsidiary since 1981 of News International...
describing them as "instantly familiar" whereas CNET
CNET
CNET is a tech media website that publishes news articles, blogs, and podcasts on technology and consumer electronics. Originally founded in 1994 by Halsey Minor and Shelby Bonnie, it was the flagship brand of CNET Networks and became a brand of CBS Interactive through CNET Networks' acquisition...
and Stuff
Stuff (magazine)
Stuff is a men's magazine featuring reviews of consumer electronics, and other articles of interest to a predominantly male audience.- UK edition :...
call the position of the analog stick
Analog stick
An analog stick, sometimes called a control stick or thumbstick, is an input device for a controller that is used for two-dimensional input. An analog stick is a variation of a joystick, consisting of a protrusion from the controller; input is based on the position of this protrusion in relation...
"awkward". The ability to use a PS3 controller was praised by the New Zealand Herald but Ars Technica criticized the need to connect the controller and Go to a PS3 for initial setup.
Relaunch
In February 2010, it was revealed that Sony may re-launch the PSP Go in the future, due to the lack of consumer interest and poor sales.In May 2010, it was revealed that Sony was now going to sell the PSP Go with ten free downloadable games in the UK
United Kingdom
The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern IrelandIn the United Kingdom and Dependencies, other languages have been officially recognised as legitimate autochthonous languages under the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages...
.
Sony began offering the free games in June 2010. The same offer was made available in Australia in July 2010. It has been revealed that Sony is also offering three free games for the PSP Go in America.
In October 2010, Sony announced a price drop for the PSP Go, bringing the price to $199.99.
Successor
In 2010, a picture of a new PSP motherboard was leaked on the Internet. Analysts speculated that this could indicate that a revised version of the PSP was in development. The motherboard was smaller than in existing models appearing to have had some features, like a micro processing unit, removed. The picture also appeared to show a modified UMDUniversal Media Disc
The Universal Media Disc is an optical disc medium developed by Sony for use on their PlayStation Portable handheld gaming and multimedia platform...
latching technology, a speculative sign that Sony might be re-adding a UMD drive for a possible successor to the PSP Go. However in May 2010 many sources across the internet claimed that the next PSP would be a download-only device like the PSP Go. It was also rumored that the new "PSP2" would include two cameras and a touchscreen while retaining the classic PlayStation face buttons and possibly adding dual-analog thumbsticks.
In Late June 2010, Sony denied claims that they were developing "3D PSP". Sony Worldwide Studios vice president Scott Rohde stated that Sony "isn't ready" to announce a "PSP2" either.
Sony also denied that the PSP2 would be download-only like the PSP Go
Alongside price drops of the PSP Go, rumors began circulating in October 2010 that Sony had shown a prototype "PSP2" in a secret conference for stakeholders and publishers, codenamed "Vita". Unverified photos and supposed technical specifications indicated that Vita would be a hybrid game and telephone device with a sliding form factor and no optical media slot, similar to the PSP Go. By now Vita was rumored to retain the PlayStation face buttons but no analogue sticks; analogue input to be via a multi-touch strip that would simulate a pair of thumb sticks. The rumoured device's memory could be as much as 1 GB of RAM, a significant increase over that of the PSP and PSP Go. A 2011 release date was suggested but Sony representatives refused to comment on the rumors.
On January 27, 2011, Sony confirmed the release of the PlayStation Vita, then known by its codename Next Generation Portable (NGP). On April 20, 2011, SCEI announced that the PSP Go had been discontinued in order to "concentrate on NGP". However, SCEA have stated that this discontinuation does not apply to North America, where they will continue to produce the device.