Decoding the PlayStation Handheld Landscape: From PSP to Portal
The answer to the question, “What is the PS handheld called?” isn’t as straightforward as it once was. The PlayStation Portable (PSP) was the original standalone handheld, a revolutionary device for its time. Now, we have the PlayStation Portal, a “remote player” designed to stream games from your PS5. It’s a whole new ballgame in portable PlayStation gaming.
A Legacy of Portable PlayStation Power
Sony has a storied history in the handheld gaming market. Let’s delve into the evolution of these devices, from the groundbreaking PSP to the innovative, streaming-focused PlayStation Portal.
The Reign of the PSP: PlayStation Portable
The PlayStation Portable (PSP), launched in 2004, was Sony’s first major foray into the handheld gaming market. It was a powerhouse, boasting impressive graphics, multimedia capabilities (playing movies and music), and a library of original games and PS2 ports that redefined expectations for portable gaming. Games like God of War: Chains of Olympus, Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII, and Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker showcased the PSP’s potential. The PSP’s use of the UMD (Universal Media Disc) was unique but ultimately contributed to its limitations as digital downloads became more prevalent. Multiple iterations of the PSP were released, including the PSP-2000 (PSP Slim & Lite) and the PSP-3000, each improving upon the original design with features like a brighter screen and better battery life.
The PS Vita: A Bold but Ultimately Undervalued Successor
The PlayStation Vita, released in 2011, was intended to be the PSP’s successor. It featured a vibrant OLED screen (on the original model), dual analog sticks, a rear touchpad, and impressive processing power. The Vita aimed to deliver a console-quality experience on the go. However, the Vita faced challenges, including a proprietary memory card format and a lack of strong first-party support after its initial launch. Despite a dedicated fanbase and some excellent games like Persona 4 Golden, Gravity Rush, and Tearaway, the Vita ultimately struggled to compete with the rising popularity of mobile gaming and the focus on home consoles. Sony discontinued the PS Vita in 2019.
The PlayStation Portal: A New Era of Remote Play
The PlayStation Portal, released in November 2023, represents a different approach to handheld PlayStation gaming. It is not a standalone console but rather a “remote player” that streams games from your PlayStation 5 console over Wi-Fi. This means the PS5 does all the processing, and the Portal acts as a screen and controller. The Portal boasts an 8-inch LCD screen with 1080p resolution at 60fps, providing a high-quality visual experience. It also features adaptive triggers and haptic feedback, mimicking the DualSense controller experience.
Comparing the Handhelds
| Feature | PSP | PS Vita | PlayStation Portal |
|---|---|---|---|
| ——————- | ———————————– | ———————————- | ———————————– |
| Standalone? | Yes | Yes | No (Requires PS5) |
| Media | UMD, Digital Downloads | Cartridge, Digital Downloads | Streaming via Wi-Fi |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi (Limited), USB | Wi-Fi, 3G (Optional), Bluetooth | Wi-Fi |
| Key Features | Multimedia Player, Game Library | Dual Analog Sticks, Touchscreen, Rear Touchpad | DualSense Features, High-Res Screen |
| Current Status | Discontinued | Discontinued | Currently Available |
The Games Learning Society understands the importance of engaging gameplay experiences, and the evolution of PlayStation handhelds reflects the ongoing quest to deliver those experiences in innovative ways. Check out GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about PlayStation Handhelds
1. What is the PlayStation Portal and how does it work?
The PlayStation Portal is a dedicated remote play device for the PS5. It streams games from your PS5 console over Wi-Fi, allowing you to play your PS5 games on a handheld device. It features an 8-inch LCD screen, DualSense controller features, and requires a stable Wi-Fi connection.
2. Does the PlayStation Portal play games natively, or does it require a PS5?
The PlayStation Portal requires a PS5 to function. It does not play games natively and relies on streaming from the console.
3. How much does the PlayStation Portal cost?
The PlayStation Portal is priced at $199.99.
4. Can I play PlayStation Plus Premium streaming games on the PlayStation Portal?
No, the PlayStation Portal cannot play games that must be streamed through PlayStation Plus Premium. It only supports games installed on your PS5 console.
5. What are the internet speed requirements for the PlayStation Portal?
Sony recommends a broadband internet Wi-Fi connection with at least 5Mbps, but a high-speed connection of at least 15Mbps is recommended for a better experience.
6. What happened to the PSP? Why was it discontinued?
The PSP was discontinued because it was nearing the end of its life cycle. Newer hardware was more powerful, and developers were less interested in creating games for the older platform.
7. Is Sony planning to release a new standalone handheld console (like the PSP or Vita)?
While there have been rumors of a new handheld console, Sony has not officially announced any plans for a standalone handheld that plays games natively. The PlayStation Portal suggests a focus on remote play technology.
8. What is the difference between the PSP and the PS Vita?
The PSP used UMD discs and digital downloads, while the PS Vita used cartridges and digital downloads. The Vita also featured dual analog sticks, a touchscreen, and a rear touchpad, making it more advanced than the PSP.
9. Why was the PS Vita discontinued?
The PS Vita was discontinued due to lack of strong first-party support and competition from mobile gaming. Many developers prioritized the PlayStation 4 and mobile platforms, leaving the Vita without a robust software library.
10. Can I use the PlayStation Portal outside of my home?
Yes, you can use the PlayStation Portal anywhere you have a stable Wi-Fi connection that meets the speed requirements. This includes hotel rooms, Airbnbs, and other locations.
11. Does the PlayStation Portal have a touchscreen?
Yes, the PlayStation Portal has a touchscreen, and the screen also supports touch-responsive areas to replicate the DualSense controller’s touchpad functionality.
12. Will Xbox release a handheld console to compete with PlayStation?
While Microsoft has explored cloud gaming, there are no confirmed plans for an Xbox handheld console. The company is focused on Xbox Cloud Gaming and Game Pass.
13. Are PSP games rare or valuable?
Some PSP games, especially limited editions or those in mint condition, can be quite valuable. Their rarity depends on production numbers and demand.
14. What are some of the best games for the PSP and PS Vita?
PSP:
- God of War: Chains of Olympus
- Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII
- Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker
- Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Stories
PS Vita:
- Persona 4 Golden
- Gravity Rush
- Tearaway
- Uncharted: Golden Abyss
15. What are the key benefits of using the PlayStation Portal?
The main benefits are the ability to play your PS5 games on a handheld device, access to DualSense controller features, and the convenience of gaming anywhere with a Wi-Fi connection. It allows you to continue playing your PS5 games even when you can’t access your TV.