Feature: 'Is There Anything Wrong With The PSP?'

In the latest 'Analyze This' series of exclusive Gamasutra features, we ask analysts from Screen Digest, ABI Research and DFC Intelligence their thoughts on Sony's PSP, specifically how they feel Sony and developers can generate more excitement for the handheld. Specifically, we asked: What are your general thoughts about the Sony PSP? Do you rate it as a failure or success? Or do you have mixed or neutral feelings about it? What do you think Sony and developers could do to improve the PSP platform, to generate more excitement for it among developers, gamers and the industry overall? Or do they need to? What do you forecast will happen with the PSP platform throughout this year, especially in relation to the PS3 (the fact that Sony plans to interface the device more with the console), with its recently announced price cut and rumors of a second generation model? As part of his response, Screen Digest's Ed Barton said: ”The only way in which the PSP can be perceived as anything other than a success is by comparison with the Nintendo DS. Screen Digest believes that there is more difference between the platforms than is often acknowledged in mainstream coverage. The DS is wholly focused on handheld gaming, while the PSP is designed as a portable digital media platform which includes gaming. Additionally, the respective userbases are markedly distinct demographics.” He added: ”As a gamer I have been less than delighted seeing so many top PSP games -- e.g., Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories and Vice City Stories -- being ported to the PS2. Exclusive titles define a platform, and there is less impetus for PSP owners to purchase such titles at full price if they see a PS2 release a few months down the line.” You can now read the full Gamasutra feature on the subject, including more feedback from ABI Research and DFC Intelligence analysts (no registration required, please feel free to link to this feature from external websites).