PSP Go thread-

[seanr1221]

Since I'll be going to grad school this fall, I might get one of these. It would be nice carrying something this small with no UMDs.

However, if the "good will" program is no good, I probably won't do it. I don't have that many UMDs (about 12) so I'm hoping I can get them all transfered.

[FriskyTanuki]

http://blog.us.playstation.com/2009/08/27/rock-band-unplugged-on-the-pspgo/

Sony explains the version of Rock Band Unplugged that will be free with the Go, so you get a lite version of the game with just five songs and you have to buy more from PSN if you want more. If there were a library of songs anywhere close to what the console version has, this could be an interesting way to do that, but with the way it is on PSN, this should've just been the full game.

[seanr1221]

Lame.

[RelentlessRolento]

That's not as bad as what I thought was just a demo. I'll sell my code though.

[J7.]

http://blog.us.playstation.com/2009/08/27/rock-band-unplugged-on-the-pspgo/

Sony explains the version of Rock Band Unplugged that will be free with the Go, so you get a lite version of the game with just five songs and you have to buy more from PSN if you want more. If there were a library of songs anywhere close to what the console version has, this could be an interesting way to do that, but with the way it is on PSN, this should've just been the full game.
Better than nothing. Guess we can thank Apple.

[bmachine]

It looks like Gamestop is offering trade-in deals for the PS3 Slim. Perhaps they'll roll out a trade-in program for the PSP Go?

I hate giving Gamestop my money, but I'd seriously consider putting up my PSP-1000 for a reasonable "downpayment" towards a new Go.

[Chibi_Kaji]

I wasn't going to get a PSP Go but I got some cash for my birthday that I'll put towards it. I'll just keep my old PSP 1000 so I can still play some of my UMDs.

[silks]

I don't need a PSPgo (already have a PSP 2001 that does fine), but I'd consider it if they tossed in a free copy of GT5 like they are in Europe. I mean, throw us SOME sort of a bone to make up for your overpriced hardware, Sony.

[mykevermin]

You get a bone, dude.

You get a demo version of a game that you can pay even more money into later if you buy songs to keep you above the paltry 5 it comes with.

Hey, don't want to pay a bunch of money for licensing fees and royalties and whatnot for a full verson of Rock Band, Sony? Look into your own treasure chest, then. Free God of War, or Ratchet or whatever, or Patapon, Locoroco...jesus fucking christ.

[RelentlessRolento]

Hey, don't want to pay a bunch of money for licensing fees and royalties and whatnot for a full verson of Rock Band, Sony? Look into your own treasure chest, then. Free God of War, or Ratchet or whatever, or Patapon, Locoroco...jesus fucking christ.


They will do that, just not launch units. They'll come out with a new SKU at some point that's a bundle of some sort.

[mykevermin]

For $250, the launch units are *precisely* what they need to add software to.

Diet Rock Band doesn't count as a real game, IMO.

[RelentlessRolento]

None the less (do people even say that verbally?) it's still genna sell well.

[Tux.Bobble]

None the less (do people even say that verbally?) it's still genna sell well.


Yea, I really hate that I'm buying a launch PSP Go, but I took advantage of the Amazon.com deal for $75 off, so it comes out to $175 for me. If I already owned a PSP I'd wait, but since I don't, and am excited for MH:FU as well as Patapon 2 and some other titles.

I just wish they gave something better with it right now to NTSC region...

[Ecofreak]

I just wish they gave something better with it right now to NTSC region...

True, but the PSP costs us $250 US while it costs European Union countries 250 Euros ($360) and England 225 Pounds ($360).

I'll take the cheaper PSP and forgo a free game.

[J7.]

The worst thing IMO is that the battery is internal, but I can't blame them because they did it to prevent pirating, with the whole pandora fiasco. I hate pirates.

[Tux.Bobble]

True, but the PSP costs us $250 US while it costs European Union countries 250 Euros ($360) and England 225 Pounds ($360).

I'll take the cheaper PSP and forgo a free game.


I'd take an even cheaper PSP and forgo the Rock Band garbage they're packing in in hopes of generating some DLC money. Gimme PSP Go for $225 and drop Rock Band. Or, give me PSP Go + a $20 PSN card, and drop Rock Band.

That's more why I'm bothered than the fact that Euro gets GT, to be quite honest. They're throwing "give me money" in NTSC's faces, if you ask me. Rock Band and Guitar Hero have their place on consoles, with crummy plastic peripherals. But on the go, with the d-pad and face buttons, it's the same as DDR with a d-pad, really...it's not Rock Band anymore.

The worst thing IMO is that the battery is internal, but I can't blame them because they did it to prevent pirating, with the whole pandora fiasco. I hate pirates.

Yep, I agree almost entirely on that one J7. I really hate when batteries are not replaceable--I'm the type that wears out laptop batteries in about 6 months since I'm a heavy tech guy. Better be a high quality battery in this unit or I will not be happy. Plus there's the whole UMD-to-Download transfer fiasco. But they've still got a month or so to get news out about that.

[RelentlessRolento]

I'm with peeps on the bettery. I liked knowing I could buy a fresh battery for not that bad of price, but honestly, I've used the hell outa my PSP-2000 and the battery still has a good life.

[Tux.Bobble]

I'm with peeps on the bettery. I liked knowing I could buy a fresh battery for not that bad of price, but honestly, I've used the hell outa my PSP-2000 and the battery still has a good life.

Yea there's just something about the removable battery that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. Feels like you're guaranteed for life--battery is the most prone to "failure" over the course of a portable's life anyway.

[silks]

None the less (do people even say that verbally?) it's still genna sell well.

I'm skeptical. I think it will sell to people that don't have a PSP and those that have money to burn, but anybody that has a PSP is going to be very hesitant to upgrade (without guarantee of UMD transferring...get on that, Sony).

Damn, do I love Sony's hardware though. The PSPgo is boneriffic, especially that white one.

[J7.]

I'm with peeps on the bettery. I liked knowing I could buy a fresh battery for not that bad of price, but honestly, I've used the hell outa my PSP-2000 and the battery still has a good life.
Damn, I haven't used mine too much and I think it's already starting to die slowly.

[Ecofreak]

I'm skeptical. I think it will sell to people that don't have a PSP and those that have money to burn, but anybody that has a PSP is going to be very hesitant to upgrade (without guarantee of UMD transferring...get on that, Sony).

Damn, do I love Sony's hardware though. The PSPgo is boneriffic, especially that white one.

The PSP Go won't stay $250 forever so I'd expect sales to increase (like everything else) once a price drop hits sometime next year. Makes sense for Sony to gouge the early adapters who are willing to pay thereby generating MASSIVE profits.

And it's not like the PSP line is competing with the DS directly (which has a more casual focus) and Microsoft doesn't have a handheld (Zune doesn't really count since it'll have iPhone like games only).

[FriskyTanuki]

I'd take an even cheaper PSP and forgo the Rock Band garbage they're packing in in hopes of generating some DLC money. Gimme PSP Go for $225 and drop Rock Band. Or, give me PSP Go + a $20 PSN card, and drop Rock Band.

That's more why I'm bothered than the fact that Euro gets GT, to be quite honest. They're throwing "give me money" in NTSC's faces, if you ask me. Rock Band and Guitar Hero have their place on consoles, with crummy plastic peripherals. But on the go, with the d-pad and face buttons, it's the same as DDR with a d-pad, really...it's not Rock Band anymore.
Maybe not, but it's Amplitude and that worked very well before plastic instruments became the became more important than the music. RBU goes back to Harmonix's roots and does the right style of music game for the handheld, compared to its main competitor on the DS, so you kind of need to get out of the mindset that these games are all about the instruments to get the fun of the game.

[Tux.Bobble]

Maybe not, but it's Amplitude and that worked very well before plastic instruments became the became more important than the music. RBU goes back to Harmonix's roots and does the right style of music game for the handheld, compared to its main competitor on the DS, so you kind of need to get out of the mindset that these games are all about the instruments to get the fun of the game.


Yea, I don't have much problem with rhythm games in general, it's just the "Rock Band" moniker that throws me off, I guess. When I hear some of the Rock Band music I think of strumming on a cheap plasticy guitar. (or the real thing, if I were able--still in training there haha) I guess I'll just see if it seems like something I'm interested in--by trying ACTUAL demo from PSN before I redeem a voucher for the "demo 2.0" as I like to call it, haha...

[RelentlessRolento]

Damn, I haven't used mine too much and I think it's already starting to die slowly.



How long do you leave it on the charger... if ur constantly charging that kills the battery easily.

[J7.]

How long do you leave it on the charger... if ur constantly charging that kills the battery easily.
I've only charged it like 10-15 times, and I make sure to wait until the battery is empty before charging it. I unplug it from charging once its done or no longer than 30 minutes after at the most, usually just a few minutes though.

[seanr1221]

It's an ion battery, right? If so, letting it die is the worst thing you can do.

[J7.]

I don't know. I was always told rechargeables need to run out before you charge them because if you don't the battery basically gets confused and begins to think it only has a smaller capacity. But yes it depends on the type and I haven't heard how the new types differ.

[Tux.Bobble]

Just like to point out that Amazon.com recently (not sure when) allowed for Release Date Delivery as an option for the PSP Go. I assume it works for both models but I only ordered the Black model.

I preordered with the $75 for $75 coupon, and that was a while ago now. But it didn't have that option then--a nice deal for those who are excited for their new gear. (I don't own a PSP at all yet, so getting it 4 or 5 days earlier is a big deal to me, haha) 2-day shipping with Amazon Prime was supposed to get it to me 10/6, because the 1st is a Thursday. But with Amazon Prime Release Date Delivery is also free, so enjoy to those who have it!!!

[62t]

I don't know. I was always told rechargeables need to run out before you charge them because if you don't the battery basically gets confused and begins to think it only has a smaller capacity. But yes it depends on the type and I haven't heard how the new types differ.

Actually it is worst to drain Litium Ion batteries. For NiCd batteries do have to drain them first.

http://forums.crackberry.com/f83/do-you-drain-your-battery-before-charging-91333/

[bmachine]

I'm surprised we don't have more details on the "goodwill" program yet. The system comes out in 3 weeks!

Maybe some news will come out of PAX this weekend?

[Chibi_Kaji]

I didn't notice they made Release Date Delivery available for the PSPGo. They usually just upgrade my order whenever the option is available.

[RelentlessRolento]

I'm surprised we don't have more details on the "goodwill" program yet. The system comes out in 3 weeks!

Maybe some news will come out of PAX this weekend?


yeah, it's getting a little ridiculous. If they dont say anything soon, I'm going to prob wait on getting a GO.

[Ecofreak]

I'm surprised we don't have more details on the "goodwill" program yet. The system comes out in 3 weeks!

Wholly crap -- I didn't realize the release was so soon!

[Tux.Bobble]

yeah, it's getting a little ridiculous. If they dont say anything soon, I'm going to prob wait on getting a GO.

Yea, to be quite honest, I wish I could wait on it, but I don't own a PSP at all and definitely want a system on which I can play games portably. I have a bit of a feeling that Sony is trying to bluff with this one--they're saying "we're looking into it" to convince people to buy it.

I'm not sure which way they'll go with this one though. On the one hand, if the PSP Go sells poorly, why support the digital download any further? Your existing market already enjoys their UMDs, so while you should make both versions available in the future, why bother converting existing games into digital for a system no one is using?

On the other hand, if the PSP Go sells poorly, Sony might get into gear and realize that this "goodwill program" is a MAJOR SELLING POINT for "upgrading" (used loosely) from a current model PSP to the Go. People who want the Go but have a collection might simply be waiting for the goodwill program, so while sales may be poor initially, releasing this information might skyrocket it, especially with the holiday season upcoming.

So I could see it going in either direction, really. I just hope they get on it sooner rather than later.


P.S.-And yes, holy crap, it's only a little over 3 weeks now. Really snuck up on me. Yay release date delivery + Patapon 2 already in my library. (I have a voucher for it from when Amazon put it on Lightning Deals for $15) Unfortunately it's the ONLY game in my library at this point, haha...hope Sony can change that via this program soon...

[Ecofreak]

P.S.-And yes, holy crap, it's only a little over 3 weeks now. Really snuck up on me. Yay release date delivery + Patapon 2 already in my library. (I have a voucher for it from when Amazon put it on Lightning Deals for $15) Unfortunately it's the ONLY game in my library at this point, haha...hope Sony can change that via this program soon...

LOL -- the only PSP game I have is Patapon 2 as well, from the Target Clearance sale for $10.

[FriskyTanuki]

You really think Sony should stop supporting PSN on the PSP if the Go doesn't sell well? It's not like that's the only system it supports and that nobody with a PSP right now buys anything from it, so it would be foolish to scrap something that's probably bringing in money if the questionably-marketed Go doesn't change much of anything.

If you're getting a Go and want a fairly cheap game to pickup, check out WTF: work time fun for $10. It's a bit like if WarioWare was set-up like it was a job rather than a quick succession of minigames.

[Jinque]

well the psp go has been prettymuch in the top 5 of psp hardware sales for amazon (beats out all the bundles & 2000) and also in the top 5 for gamestop's psp sales (beat by the dissidia bundle and games). while not the #1 unit its still seeing relatively decent sales.

thx for the note on release date delivery... i had paid for 1-day shipping and apparently they don't upgrade to free release date like they do for normal 2day prime shipping.

[Chibi_Kaji]

yeah, it's getting a little ridiculous. If they dont say anything soon, I'm going to prob wait on getting a GO.
I've decided that I will keep my old PSP around in order to play a few import games I have already. So I'm not really that concerned with the "Goodwill" program.

[Tux.Bobble]

You really think Sony should stop supporting PSN on the PSP if the Go doesn't sell well? It's not like that's the only system it supports and that nobody with a PSP right now buys anything from it, so it would be foolish to scrap something that's probably bringing in money if the questionably-marketed Go doesn't change much of anything.

Apologies if I wasn't clear about what I said. I didn't mean PSN should not be supported at ALL. But I was referring specifically to the "goodwill program", related operations. Because technically that could also benefit existing PSP owners as well. I know if I owned a PSP 3000, and could transfer a UMD game to a memory stick, I'd CONSIDER doing it if the service fee was minimal ($1-2), and it was for a game I ALWAYS carried with me.

Not to mention that, if the PSP Go doesn't sell well, there's no NEED to bring older titles to PSN. I can't comment much on what is/is not available on PSN right now, but if there is some launch window game, which sold decently but isn't a "must have"; there might be cause to create a digital download on PSN for it with success of the Go, but seeing as it has already been available to the current market since launch, it might not be as much of a priority.

I strongly support digital downloads overall. Hence why I am getting a PSP Go in the first place. I really hope it pays off well for Sony, and I hope they continue to support PSN. I just feel that the success of the PSP Go might change the path Sony takes with its backlog of already-released UMD-only games. Future games and games which are already available via PSN would not be affected by the things I was referring to related to the PSP Go's success.

Sorry if that wasn't clear the first time around.

[J7.]

Here's some positive news:
To save your game on the PSP Go you can just press the Home button at any time and it will automatically save your game for you and you can return to exactly where you were in the game. Since it's built in it works for all games. Should save people a lot of time, especially when busy on the go (pun unintended).
http://www.ps3center.net//news/3677/pspgo-save-state-feature-unveiled/

[FriskyTanuki]

Old news.

[Chibi_Kaji]

I was going to pick this up from Amazon but if I picked one up at Target I could save some money with my employee discount..... Laziness vs saving cash...

[Foo228]

I was going to pick this up from Amazon but if I picked one up at Target I could save some money with my employee discount..... Laziness vs saving cash...

Wouldn't you still have to pay tax at Target? Sounds like Amazon is the better deal (not as convenient though). I'm almost sure employee discount is 10% there.

[vherub]

I was hoping the save feature would allow save states, as in emulation. Where you can reload previous save states.
This is more of a resume game feature, right? once you resume the game, you lose the save state?

[FriskyTanuki]

Yeah, it's a quick save feature that lets you get out of a game if there's something else you want to do without needing to find a save spot first.

[Chibi_Kaji]

Wouldn't you still have to pay tax at Target? Sounds like Amazon is the better deal (not as convenient though). I'm almost sure employee discount is 10% there.
Since I live in NY I have to pay sales tax on online purchases from Amazon. And even if I didn't it would still be slightly cheaper since the sales tax in NY is something like 8%.

[iRent]

Haven't been following the thread for a while but I hope they kept production to a minimum to drive up demand (Wii strategy) and not following in Sega's footsteps. I don't believe this thing will do well in the first place.

[h3llbring3r]

Haven't been following the thread for a while but I hope they kept production to a minimum to drive up demand (Wii strategy) and not following in Sega's footsteps. I don't believe this thing will do well in the first place.

As far as remember there were no artificial constraints on Wii production to drive up demand.

[Foo228]

Since I live in NY I have to pay sales tax on online purchases from Amazon. And even if I didn't it would still be slightly cheaper since the sales tax in NY is something like 8%.

Yeesh...;)

[Reichan]

PSP Go for 200$ guess i can afford it and update myself on new game releases, but i do hope sooner after the release there will be CFW hacks rather than UMD's their expensive. :(

[h3llbring3r]

Very disappointing article on Gizmondo (http://gizmodo.com/5362451/restrictions-on-psp-minis-make-them-nearly-pointless)about the PSP Mini restrictions Sony has set to constrain developers. Excerpt:

Restrictions on PSP Minis Make them Nearly Pointless (http://gizmodo.com/5362451/restrictions-on-psp-minis-make-them-nearly-pointless)

By Mark Wilson (http://gizmodo.com/people/markwilson/posts/),

• no network or online features
• no downloadable content (expansions)
• no peripheral support
It's funny, the 100MB size restriction is the least of PSP Minis' problems. We're talking about closed box games, titles that are not only restricted in terms of multiplayer, but completely thwarted from doing anything interesting (like rendering superior graphics or, say, pinging twitter) in the cloud.

[Ecofreak]

Very disappointing article on Gizmondo (http://gizmodo.com/5362451/restrictions-on-psp-minis-make-them-nearly-pointless)about the PSP Mini restrictions Sony has set to constrain developers. Excerpt:

Restrictions on PSP Minis Make them Nearly Pointless (http://gizmodo.com/5362451/restrictions-on-psp-minis-make-them-nearly-pointless)

By Mark Wilson (http://gizmodo.com/people/markwilson/posts/),

• no network or online features
• no downloadable content (expansions)
• no peripheral support
It's funny, the 100MB size restriction is the least of PSP Minis' problems. We're talking about closed box games, titles that are not only restricted in terms of multiplayer, but completely thwarted from doing anything interesting (like rendering superior graphics or, say, pinging twitter) in the cloud.

Not quite so sure why your headline is so negative. Most Flash games that I play on Newgrounds, Armor Games, and Kongregate are all single player games with no real need for online connectivity outside of downloading the game. Minis are designed to be the same way.

Sony has stated that they put such restrictions in place to reduce the QA time needed before a game can go released, which is a perfectly reasonable idea to me. And it doesn't necessarily mean that said restrictions will always be in place.

It's in Sony's best interest to have as many PSP Minis on the market ASAP to help drive home a key selling point. Perhaps they'll allow for network connectivity when the PSP Mini community has matured to the point where additional QA time won't be so serious given the already large number of games available.

[h3llbring3r]

Not quite so sure why your headline is so negative. Most Flash games that I play on Newgrounds, Armor Games, and Kongregate are all single player games with no real need for online connectivity outside of downloading the game. Minis are designed to be the same way.

It's not my title or byline bro.


What sucks is that the Mini constraints hobble their potential as free Apps.
So a company like Pharos (or more specifically it's online community) who wanted to make a free mini to allow use with their BT GPS units can't. It's not about the flash-like games, but the mini/app aspect. It hobbles functionality and the potential for something like the flash multi-player FPS that are being experimented with; not to mention innovative community designed uses for first-party peripherals.

To me it's just more disappointing news, as I thought the mini's might be the saving grace of the Go~ not the coup de grâce for my interest in the platform.

[FriskyTanuki]

There aren't going to be any free apps unless Sony's said something different on that front.

[h3llbring3r]

My understanding is that the App store was going to be the "paradigm" *cringes* for the mini's and free ones were going to be a "possibility."

It certainly seems they are going in the opposite direction, in the name of QA- please.

Here is an article in mobile mag that more poignantly explores the problem:
psp-minis-get-confined-with-restrictive-restrictions/ (http://www.mobilemag.com/2009/09/18/psp-minis-get-confined-with-restrictive-restrictions/) Excerpt:
Unfortunately for developers hoping to cash in on this new platform, Sony has placed all sorts of restrictions on the creation of PSP Mini applications and games. Namely, the apps cannot use any network (http://www.mobilemag.com/2009/09/18/psp-minis-get-confined-with-restrictive-restrictions/#) or online features, effectively eliminating the possibility of developing an app for Facebook or Twitter. It also means that there is no online play whatsoever.

Going even further, it is not possible to tack on any downloadable content (DLC) in the form of expansion (http://www.mobilemag.com/2009/09/18/psp-minis-get-confined-with-restrictive-restrictions/#) packs and that kind of thing. DLC has become the norm for so many games across so many platforms and this includes the smaller XBLA/PSN/WiiShop games. That’s strike two.

And strike three? No peripheral support. If you’re hoping to be a little more creative with the use of an external keyboard or anything like that, you won’t be able to do it with a PSP Mini. You’ll need to develop a full retail release instead.

To make matters even more frustrating for developers who were hoping to get in on the PSP Mini action, Sony isn’t allowing any developed app or game for the platform to exceed 100MB. This started out as one of the biggest hurdles for developers who want to make something fuller and better, but I think the lack of DLC and online support is even worse. No online multiplayer? Seriously?

Just when I thought the PSP Go with PSP Minis could be viable and fun, Sony smacks all the developers in the face. That’s not how you beat Nintendo in the portable game, Sony.

[FriskyTanuki]

PSP Minis is just a games service. Their model is based on iPhone's apps, but that doesn't mean that they're allowing actual apps. If Minis are your only hope for interest in a Go, then just get a 3000 to have UMD games and any Minis that interest you.

It's a line of games that better fit the PSP that the system has sorely lacked since the first PSN games arrived for the PSP. No online connectivity sucks, but the PSP isn't an always online device that would make great use of that. Unless Sony changes how online works on the PSP in a future firmware, the lack of leaderboards and the occasional online multiplayer Mni isn't a big deal in the short term.

[h3llbring3r]

PSP Minis is just a games service. Their model is based on iPhone's apps, but that doesn't mean that they're allowing actual apps. If Minis are your only hope for interest in a Go, then just get a 3000 to have UMD games and any Minis that interest you.

It's a line of games that better fit the PSP that the system has sorely lacked since the first PSN games arrived for the PSP. No online connectivity sucks, but the PSP isn't an always online device that would make great use of that. Unless Sony changes how online works on the PSP in a future firmware, the lack of leaderboards and the occasional online multiplayer Mni isn't a big deal in the short term.

Since when is it just a games service? I thought it was the "pie in the sky" which was going to bring it back on par with the iPhone/Touch.

It's the longterm that I worry about. [Tin-foil hat: Why would they do this unless this is some kind of short term transitional device put out as an experiment to test the developer and consumer market's waters for the potential of a PSP2? ]

The constraints seem artificial, as the community is easily the best QA out there- it certainly works for apple. Sure you get "baby-in a blender" games that squeak into the market- but as long is it's not embedded with malicious software it gets out quickly and problems are identified quickly and removed.

It certainly could hobble the potential for some profitable but free mini games. I know the mini banner ads and DLC are what prop up some of the better free app-store games. That type of profitable but free game model is absolutely impossible with this set of constraints.

[FriskyTanuki]

Since when is it just a games service? I thought it was the "pie in the sky" which was going to bring it back on par with the iPhone/Touch.

It's the longterm that I worry about. [Tin-foil hat: Why would they do this unless this is some kind of short term transitional device put out as an experiment to test the developer and consumer market's waters for the potential of a PSP2? ]

The constraints seem artificial, as the community is easily the best QA out there- it certainly works for apple. Sure you get "baby-in a blender" games that squeak into the market- but as long is it's not embedded with malicious software it gets out quickly and problems are identified quickly and removed.

It certainly could hobble the potential for some profitable but free mini games. I know the mini banner ads and DLC are what prop up some of the better free app-store games. That type of profitable but free game model is absolutely impossible with this set of constraints.
http://uk.playstation.com/games-media/news/articles/detail/item229623/Small-but-mighty-minis-for-PSP/

I imagine that they are artificial and things like DLC and network features will be allowed in the future. I doubt any of these restrictions are set in stone and will not change since a good service has to be able to change and evolve to meet the needs of its developers.

[h3llbring3r]

I certainly hope you are right.

[Tux.Bobble]

Since when is it just a games service? I thought it was the "pie in the sky" which was going to bring it back on par with the iPhone/Touch.

It's the longterm that I worry about. [Tin-foil hat: Why would they do this unless this is some kind of short term transitional device put out as an experiment to test the developer and consumer market's waters for the potential of a PSP2? ]

The constraints seem artificial, as the community is easily the best QA out there- it certainly works for apple. Sure you get "baby-in a blender" games that squeak into the market- but as long is it's not embedded with malicious software it gets out quickly and problems are identified quickly and removed.

It certainly could hobble the potential for some profitable but free mini games. I know the mini banner ads and DLC are what prop up some of the better free app-store games. That type of profitable but free game model is absolutely impossible with this set of constraints.

I've never heard of PSP Minis being touted as anything relative to the App store, except in size alone. In other words I've ONLY heard of PSP Minis in reference to games, and never anything more personally. My assumption was any social networking, etc. would come from Sony, if implemented, though I could be wrong.

And I somewhat disagree regarding the QA claim. The community isn't for QA. That's what gives Sony the headache. Since Sony has a reputation in the games market, it's a bit different from Apple, who is just trying to make their name in portable gaming. If Sony lets bad games into the marketplace, it says something about their credibility, so they are trying to keep their good name by doing QA on their end. In order to keep QA easier and quicker, they're implementing a few guidelines.

Now, here's the kicker: as far as I know, Sony has never said "a game under 100mb MUST follow Mini guidelines". So, if a developer wants to include online connectivity in a game, it just won't qualify as a "Mini". So, the only real difference I see here is that QA may take longer since it's not on an expedited schedule. More things to test = more time. It would just take longer to get into the marketplace, which makes perfect sense to me personally. The only issue that I could see remaining is how they would PRICE these games that don't quite qualify as Minis, but are small enough to technically be one.

Let me note that I am definitely not speaking from fact. Most of this post is just based on what I've read other places, and those guidelines. So while it is speculation, it is speculation within reason, in my opinion. I just don't see that these "Mini" guidelines are intended to limit small games, but instead to help these smaller games get through QA faster. Think about it this way:

Imagine if you are supposed to check documents for errors. These documents are passed on to you from various outside sources. Wouldn't it be much easier to look for errors if your documents are formatted in a somewhat uniform way? Obviously this is not exactly the same, but if you're making sure that these games all follow a somewhat uniform "format" in a sense, it makes the process a lot easier than it might be otherwise. If it doesn't follow this format, it can simply be passed on to a different QA team, over a longer period of time.



So, to sum it up, it seems to me that this is more of a GUIDELINE/QUALIFICATION, not a LIMITATION. So, if your game QUALIFIES as a Mini, then it gets the benefits, such as faster QA time, lower related fees, etc. But if you CHOOSE to release a game which does NOT follow them, you simply don't get these same benefits. I haven't seen any reason to believe otherwise.

[bornrunnin31]

The Mini service is first and foremost a games service. Sony hasn't shown any other types of "apps" other than games, though I believe they have stated that apps other than games may come down the line.

The one thing that does worry me though is that devs will not be able to patch their games post launch. So, if some crushing bug gets through the QA process, it will not be fixable.

[FriskyTanuki]

I don't think PSP games can be patched anyway, though they could always just fix it by uploading a fixed version as the original version and ask people to redownload the game.

[J7.]

The best PSP Minis will eventually come to UMD & possibly PS3. http://www.1up.com/do/newsStory?cId=3176004

Sony has said in the past Minis is only for games. That's great to me because if I wanted apps I'd get an Ipod Touch. This way we see more games instead of some of each. From interview:
http://kotaku.com/5341110/sony-psp-minis-not-an-iphone-app-store-no-pspgo-umd-transfer-update

But, Koller said, "it's absolutely not an app store." Expect Minis to all be games games. "We're not going to have, 'Find Your Parked Car' and those kinds of things," he said.
The result will be a "constant stream of content," he hoped, something that ought to please PSP owners looking for novelty.

Very disappointing article on Gizmondo (http://gizmodo.com/5362451/restrictions-on-psp-minis-make-them-nearly-pointless)about the PSP Mini restrictions Sony has set to constrain developers. Excerpt:
Restrictions on PSP Minis Make them Nearly Pointless (http://gizmodo.com/5362451/restrictions-on-psp-minis-make-them-nearly-pointless)

By Mark Wilson (http://gizmodo.com/people/markwilson/posts/),

• no network or online features
• no downloadable content (expansions)
• no peripheral support
It's funny, the 100MB size restriction is the least of PSP Minis' problems. We're talking about closed box games, titles that are not only restricted in terms of multiplayer, but completely thwarted from doing anything interesting (like rendering superior graphics or, say, pinging twitter) in the cloud.

I'm glad there is a 100 mb limit. Minis are what the name is i.e. smaller games, smaller games allow for innovation/uniqueness we otherwise would not see. Minis are like app games or DSiWare games. I think the no network or online features & no DLC is probably just for the start/1st year like Apple did at first, later they will open it up more like Apple has.

Not quite so sure why your headline is so negative. Most Flash games that I play on Newgrounds, Armor Games, and Kongregate are all single player games with no real need for online connectivity outside of downloading the game. Minis are designed to be the same way.

Sony has stated that they put such restrictions in place to reduce the QA time needed before a game can go released, which is a perfectly reasonable idea to me. And it doesn't necessarily mean that said restrictions will always be in place.

It's in Sony's best interest to have as many PSP Minis on the market ASAP to help drive home a key selling point. Perhaps they'll allow for network connectivity when the PSP Mini community has matured to the point where additional QA time won't be so serious given the already large number of games available.
Exactly. :applause::applause:


I imagine that they are artificial and things like DLC and network features will be allowed in the future. I doubt any of these restrictions are set in stone and will not change since a good service has to be able to change and evolve to meet the needs of its developers.
Agreed.

[FriskyTanuki]

http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/19/psp-go-unboxing-in-video-and-pictures/

Joystiq has an unboxing video up now for the Go, though they can't say anything about it until next Monday.

[Tux.Bobble]

I have a somewhat unrelated question. I've never heard of this until recently, and since I don't own a PSP but will be buying the Go, I'm just curious if anyone has ever had experience with AllPSPGames.com.

It's a subscription-based site, which claims to allow people to download PSP games to your PSP. They claim that it works with any firmware, and that there are over 100k PSP downloads. That means more than just games, but also demos, videos, etc. I've never heard of this service, and am wondering if a)it works, or b)what is actually available on their service.

For $35 a year, if it worked, I'd be pretty happy to download unlimited PSP games, haha. But I'm pretty confident that this is not kosher (read: legal) and not even sure if it's possible. (new firmware might eventually prevent stuff like this)

If anyone has comments on this site I'd appreciate it.

[FriskyTanuki]

I'm 99% sure that it's probably illegal.

[Ecofreak]

I have a somewhat unrelated question. I've never heard of this until recently, and since I don't own a PSP but will be buying the Go, I'm just curious if anyone has ever had experience with AllPSPGames.com.

It's a subscription-based site, which claims to allow people to download PSP games to your PSP. They claim that it works with any firmware, and that there are over 100k PSP downloads. That means more than just games, but also demos, videos, etc. I've never heard of this service, and am wondering if a)it works, or b)what is actually available on their service.

For $35 a year, if it worked, I'd be pretty happy to download unlimited PSP games, haha. But I'm pretty confident that this is not kosher (read: legal) and not even sure if it's possible. (new firmware might eventually prevent stuff like this)

If anyone has comments on this site I'd appreciate it.

Like Frisky said, it's likely highly illegal.

Now -- it's rumored that Sony is toying with the idea of allowing for downloadable rentals of PSP titles as far back as GDC in May 2009.

From Joystiq.com (http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/21/developers-told-of-psp-rental-plans-at-gdc/)

It looks like Sony's been thinking of doing a PSP games rental service for quite some time now. A consumer survey we discovered yesterday gauged interest in a PSN-powered games rental service for the PSP. Through the hypothetical service, PSP owners would pay a monthly fee to gain access to a library of new and archived games on the PlayStation Store.

According to a report by Develop, Sony pitched plans of a rental service to developers at GDC last March. Certainly, a PSN-centric PSP would be far more attractive to developers that have shied away due to piracy concerns. Offering a rental service would be yet another nail in UMD's coffin, and would perhaps incentivize PSP development once again.

A great idea, IMO, as it simultaneously eliminates the second-hand market and allows hard core gamers the opportunity to beat the game without paying full price (say they finish it in one rental period).

And since all rentals go through PSN, Sony can easily tell what companies will get a piece of the rental pie (unlike Blockbuster or Netflix where there are no additional royalties after the game is bought).

[Reichan]

i do agree w/ what u said Frisky :)

[doodofdoods]

A rental service would be good and I believe the recent firmware update gave some hints that it might be coming soon.

They have to get the pricing right, and I think an option should be available that allows players who decide to buy the game during their rental period to get back the rental fee they paid.

[J7.]

That's a good idea, to be able to apply the rental fee to the full purchase.

[Tux.Bobble]

That's a good idea, to be able to apply the rental fee to the full purchase.

Yea, I agree there. I'd even be willing to pay slightly MORE than retail in some of these cases.

For instance, if the game is $20. The rental fee could be $4, and then "activating" the full version could be $18. It would wind up being $22 total for Sony, but I'd be much more confident buying full versions with rentals like that.

The must-have games will still be huge sellers, and games that might not otherwise sell so well would generate higher income, one way or another...


Also, does anyone know of a source that has looked over various PSP Go accessories that are coming out with it on 10/1? I'm wondering because I can't find any details about the cradle. It could be a handy deice depending on its functionality if there is any, but I haven't read ANYTHING about it or been able to find any product details. If anyone knows of a website that has had access to this info, please let me know. Thanks.

[Reichan]

IMO PSp GO will be difficult for those owners who has big hands since the PSP go is more Slimmer when slid open and a bit short.

SONY might be focusing on improving their marketing sales, though PSP go is being dead even its not yet launched, but if there will be hacks available and downloadable games can be installed, that would be great like what happened to 1st types of PSP.

[Tux.Bobble]

IMO PSp GO will be difficult for those owners who has big hands since the PSP go is more Slimmer when slid open and a bit short.

SONY might be focusing on improving their marketing sales, though PSP go is being dead even its not yet launched, but if there will be hacks available and downloadable games can be installed, that would be great like what happened to 1st types of PSP.


Actually I find that my hands cramp from the CURRENT iterations of the PSP. Everything I've heard has been about how comfortable it feels. I like the way they shifted the analog nub over, for instance...

[Ecofreak]

Actually I find that my hands cramp from the CURRENT iterations of the PSP. Everything I've heard has been about how comfortable it feels. I like the way they shifted the analog nub over, for instance...

QFT.

And from Destructoid.com (http://www.destructoid.com/psp-minis-multiplayer-possibly-to-come-updates-confirmed-149278.phtml)

A lot of hype has been placed upon the PSPgo. It's a sleek, sexy machine with some obvious flaws (battery life, no real new features), but it does sure look great. However, the PSPgo is not the only thing Sony is launching later next month, as there is a whole slew of new game types coming through PSN: the Minis.

There was some talk last week about these new, smaller, bite-sized games, especially in regards to the lack of multiplayer and updates to the game. Last week I was at a Sony PSPgo launch event, and I had the opportunity to speak with Eric Lempel, the Director of Playstation Operations and Strategic Planning, about this very issue.

When questioned about these concerns, he said this: “So you can patch Minis, but we won't have multiplayer functions in the beginning. Basically, to get these developers on board, and to make it easier to test and get it through the pipeline, we won't be allowing that functionality for the first stage of Minis.”

He also went on to say that Mini games will have the ability to be updated, and that multiplayer... “It's something we will consider in the future.” Ultimately, this is a situation that is not ideal for gamers, but is something that Sony can address at anytime. I just hope that these restrictions don't become like Microsoft's handling of previous Arcade restrictions, where only certain companies and games were allowed to break the rules, because that just unfair.

Expect more from my Sony Press Event later this week.

Looks like I was on the right track. Sweet.... Someone should hire me as a video game analyst!

[Tux.Bobble]

QFT.

And from Destructoid.com (http://www.destructoid.com/psp-minis-multiplayer-possibly-to-come-updates-confirmed-149278.phtml)

Looks like I was on the right track. Sweet.... Someone should hire me as a video game analyst!

I'm glad you were on the right track. Seems like I was as well. I had thought it was simply to expedite the QA process and for keeping things more straightforward. I'm glad they'll eventually raise some of those limitations, since they are completely artificial.


Just checking again though, does anyone know of any website that has covered any of the PSP Go accessories that will be available at launch? I'm wondering if the cradle will actually be of any use, or if it will simply be another way to give Sony money. (Yay PS2/PS3 "vertical stand" accessory, haha)

[h3llbring3r]

I'm glad you were on the right track. Seems like I was as well. I had thought it was simply to expedite the QA process and for keeping things more straightforward. I'm glad they'll eventually raise some of those limitations, since they are completely artificial.


Just checking again though, does anyone know of any website that has covered any of the PSP Go accessories that will be available at launch? I'm wondering if the cradle will actually be of any use, or if it will simply be another way to give Sony money. (Yay PS2/PS3 "vertical stand" accessory, haha)

http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/06/psp-go-and-buy-all-new-accessories/

[Tux.Bobble]

Thanks for the link h3llbring3r. That's pretty much all the info I was able to find, as well.

I was just hoping to find some sort of description of the damn cradle. I could see purchasing it if it had a function other than "look, your PSP Go can STAND UP!!!" (i.e. if it had component or composite out as opposed to the proprietary output) but my guess is that it will simply pass the same port out the back so that it can stand up and still be plugged in.

Shame, since that accessory has potential otherwise.

[Chibi_Kaji]

I wouldn't mind a stand for the PSP Go since you are able to connect a PS3 controller to it. But chances are I'll only end up buying buying some sort of case for the Go.

It seems Target is offering a $5 GC for people who pre-order the PSPGo. So it looks like I'll probably go pick it up at Target.

[cochesecochese]

Is there a list of what games will be available for download on the PSPGo on day one?

[Chibi_Kaji]

None that I know of. All I've heard is Persona(Atlus pushed it back) and some NIS titles will be up on the 1st. But I'm going to guess we'll at least see alot of the more recent releases up(Like Motorstorm and GT).

[xycury]

I think it's funny to connect a controller to a portable gaming device, and buy a stand for it.

Why not just have a dock that is similar to a port replicator for laptops....

it just seems silly to play on a teeny screen like that.

[FriskyTanuki]

I think it's funny to connect a controller to a portable gaming device, and buy a stand for it.

Why not just have a dock that is similar to a port replicator for laptops....

it just seems silly to play on a teeny screen like that.
Video out.

[J7.]

I can't wait for October 1st and I won't even have a Go. There should be decent PSN releases on that day along with the Minis! My PSP 2000 will enjoy that day.

[xycury]

Video out.


and that's what you call a console.... not a handheld.

And it's called Go?

I'll stop now. :-#

Still though, for ones that want to console it, dock would be nice, stand, maybe not so much.

[doodofdoods]

I can't wait for October 1st and I won't even have a Go. There should be decent PSN releases on that day along with the Minis! My PSP 2000 will enjoy that day.

Mini's, NISA sale, PSN releases, should be sweet.

I'm also very interested in knowing what Sony's going to do about all our UMD's, they haven't said anything about it in a while. They can't stay silent about it for much longer.

[Tux.Bobble]

Mini's, NISA sale, PSN releases, should be sweet.

I'm also very interested in knowing what Sony's going to do about all our UMD's, they haven't said anything about it in a while. They can't stay silent about it for much longer.

Yea seriously, if they don't say anything @ TGS I'll be pissed. Though...I'm pretty much pissed in general. My whole strategy behind buying the Go was to buy it, and then seek out some used UMDs to start my collection via the trade-in. I got the $75 off deal via Amazon, and am getting release date delivery, so I'm keeping the preorder. (~$175 isn't a half bad deal considering the 3000 is $170)

But I feel pretty annoyed that Sony would cut it this close without any further mention of the UMD trade program. Guess I'll have to wait and see how it goes. Does anyone know which NIS games are particularly worth buying on day 1 for the half off deal? I'm considering them but not familiar enough personally.

[h3llbring3r]

The Guardian just published their two week hands-on review of the Go.
It's pretty positive on the hardware:
Nice kit, shame about the price (http://www.guardian.co.uk/technology/gamesblog/2009/sep/19/games-sony)

[J7.]

Does anyone know which NIS games are particularly worth buying on day 1 for the half off deal? I'm considering them but not familiar enough personally.
We still don't know all the titles, see below, but I'd recommend Prinny & Disgaea.

http://www.cheapassgamer.com/forums/showpost.php?p=6267514&postcount=3569
I also want to let you know that NIS America will release our past PSP titles, such as Prinny, Disgaea, Blade Dancer, and more, on PSN in the coming weeks. They will be available between $4.99 and $12.99 during the sales week (October 1st to 7th.) They are all 50% off, so don’t miss this chance to get them if you haven’t gotten these titles yet!

[doodofdoods]

Disgaea and Prinny: Can I really be the Hero? are the only ones I can recommend. I haven't played the others that will be on sale.

[bmachine]

I got the $75 off deal via Amazon, and am getting release date delivery, so I'm keeping the preorder.

What $75 off deal at Amazon? Is there a deal that I missed?

[Tux.Bobble]

What $75 off deal at Amazon? Is there a deal that I missed?

It wasn't just a straight up deal. Over the summer was a "trade in $75 of video games, get a $75 coupon in addition". So I traded in $75 of PS3/PS2 games, and got an extra $75 for free. Between the coupon and the original gift cards, I'm paying less than $100 out-of-pocket for my PSP Go as a result. Now, if I had bought a 3000, it would have been ~ $15. (just tax basically)

So it's not like I just got it for $75 off, don't worry about that. Had to work for it haha...

I was considering Prinny based on reviews...couldn't decide if I wanted it or not based on the fact that "YOU WILL DIE" is in pretty much every review...lol.

[Reichan]

LoL Well its up to you, Its your money, Those things are just different opinions about PSP GO vs PSP 2k - 3k i think the good thing for PSP go is Great games came from ps2 and ps3? hope so.. but the UMD will be on high price IMO SONY is kinda focusing on their marketing sales.

[J7.]

I was considering Prinny based on reviews...couldn't decide if I wanted it or not based on the fact that "YOU WILL DIE" is in pretty much every review...lol.
That's a good thing.

[Ecofreak]

The Guardian just published their two week hands-on review of the Go.
It's pretty positive on the hardware:
Nice kit, shame about the price (http://www.guardian.co.uk/technology/gamesblog/2009/sep/19/games-sony)

This is the money quote to me, as this guy has some extensive experience with the original PSP and thus can speak with some sense of authority.

Well the Go feels more comfortable to hold than the PSP 3000. If I hadn't already spent far too long on Monster Hunter Unite on the original PSP I'd have been tempted to download it for the Go simply because it is far nicer to use for lengthy sessions. Battery life too is a huge improvement.

I was always concerned about the Go's comfort factor and am glad the author gives the Go some high marks on ergonomics. Never did like the way the PSP Phat felt.

[Tux.Bobble]

This is the money quote to me, as this guy has some extensive experience with the original PSP and thus can speak with some sense of authority.



I was always concerned about the Go's comfort factor and am glad the author gives the Go some high marks on ergonomics. Never did like the way the PSP Phat felt.

Yea, I do find it funny how so many people who have never held the PSP Go are being so derisive toward it for its small size "cramping the hands" when it seems that EVERYONE who has ACTUALLY HELD one absolutely LOVES it. The size is actually the main reason I'm getting the Go, and haven't owned a PSP before. (I think I sound like a broken record on this one--I have bigger than average hands, too)

Anyway, I will most definitely post my feedback on Oct 1st/2nd, since now I have a job (woohoo!) and work pretty late.

[Gothic Walrus]

So, Sony's definition of pricing parity is five to six dollars MORE for digital copies (http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/23/sony-to-maintain-pricing-parity-for-downloadable-psp-games/), and EB Games won't be carrying the PSPgo in Australia (http://kotaku.com/5365557/another-retailer-says-nothankyou-to-the-pspgo).

I already had some doubts about the all-download system - I like physical copies, and the price drops that come with them. Apparently, I'm not the only one - EB Games is the biggest gaming chain in Australia, and if they refuse to carry it, that's not a good sign. :-|

[lilboo]

Yeah, I'm def not up for downloads being more than retail. At ALL.

[RelentlessRolento]

I like the digital download PSN how it's setup in japan... everywhere else, prices pretty much dont make sense.

[FriskyTanuki]

So, Sony's definition of pricing parity is five to six dollars MORE for digital copies (http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/23/sony-to-maintain-pricing-parity-for-downloadable-psp-games/), and EB Games won't be carrying the PSPgo in Australia (http://kotaku.com/5365557/another-retailer-says-nothankyou-to-the-pspgo).

I already had some doubts about the all-download system - I like physical copies, and the price drops that come with them. Apparently, I'm not the only one - EB Games is the biggest gaming chain in Australia, and if they refuse to carry it, that's not a good sign. :-|
I'd think the price parity quote is relating to new games that are being released on UMD and PSN at launch, so Persona, MotorStorm, and Gran Turismo would be examples of that. It's kind of expected looking at how games like Warhawk, Gran Turismo 5 Prologue, and SOCOM Confrontation were priced when they were released on the PS3.

It's too bad that they didn't show examples of the cheaper UMD games that are on there, though I guess they wanted the article to stay one-sided on the issue. I'm sure you can find any of the UMD games for cheaper if you look hard enough or wait long enough as a counterpoint to any deals. Just going through the list of games and cross-referencing them with GameStop's New and Used prices:

7 Wonders of the Ancient World - $9.99 PSN - $10.99 New, $12.05 Used (http://www.amazon.com/7-Wonders-Ancient-World-Sony-PSP/dp/B000MRQKH8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=videogames&qid=1253688752&sr=8-1) Amazon
Archer Maclean's Mercury - $5.99 PSN - $5.99 Used (http://www.gamestop.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=37580)
Brave Story: New Traveler - $14.99 PSN - $19.99 Used (http://www.gamestop.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=65511)
Brothers in Arms D-Day - $14.99 PSN - $16.99 Used (http://www.gamestop.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=60446)
Guilty Gear Judgment - $5.99 PSN - $12.99 Used (http://www.gamestop.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=40031)
Luxor Pharaoh's Challenge - $9.99 PSN - $12.99 Used (http://www.gamestop.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=68082)
Myst - $19.99 PSN - $42.90 New Play-Asia (http://www.play-asia.com/paOS-13-71-9f-49-en-70-17jj.html)
Patapon - $15.99 PSN - $19.99 New, $17.99 Used (http://www.gamestop.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=68644)
PBR Out of the Chute - $14.99 PSN - N/A On The Internet
Pocket Pool - $9.99 PSN - $19.99 News, $12.99 Used (http://www.gamestop.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=64667)
Super Collapse! 3 - $9.99 PSN - $14.99 Used (http://www.gamestop.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=65672)
Tomb Raider: Anniversary - $12.99 - $17.99 Used (http://www.gamestop.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=64436)
Tomb Raider: Legend - $12.99 PSN - $14.99 Used (http://www.gamestop.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=42638)

Not the most prestigious list, but some of these third parties are pricing their games decently. A number of the UMD games are cheaper than their MSRP's, but GameStop probably stops requesting new copies of most PSP games to make that a moot point anyway.

The bigger issue is the dumb move of publishers like EA, Atlus, Sony, and others to continue pushing $40 games out there when they need to focus on the $30 or $20 price tag with some of the elite games being $40 when they warrant it. Stupid shit like Steambot Chronicles launching at $40 for a 15 hour game with no replay value is a textbook example of the dumb pricing decisions by publishers that should've been phased out by now. With the poor sales of most PSP games, publishers should be more willing to go for cheaper prices to entice buyers to buy their stuff rather than pirate or ignore them.

As far as the digital stuff, Sony needs to stop with the stupid $15.99 and $22.99 tiers they've put most of their games in since neither makes sense and just leads to games like PaRappa the Rapper being $23 that can't be selling anywhere to close to most anything else on there. Even the no name stuff like 7 Wonders and Mind Quiz have to be selling better than PtR. I'd hope that the NIS sale is a sign that Sony's willing to facilitate Steam-like sales when publishers want to do them.

[Chibi_Kaji]

I'd think the price parity quote is relating to new games that are being released on UMD and PSN at launch, so Persona, MotorStorm, and Gran Turismo would be examples of that. It's kind of expected looking at how games like Warhawk, Gran Turismo 5 Prologue, and SOCOM Confrontation were priced when they were released on the PS3.
That makes complete sense. Retailers would never let them get away with releasing new games cheaper over PSN. Sony tried it with Warhawk and had to create a bundle in the end to keep the retailers happy.

[Gothic Walrus]

That makes complete sense. Retailers would never let them get away with releasing new games cheaper over PSN. Sony tried it with Warhawk and had to create a bundle in the end to keep the retailers happy.

Honestly, I'm a little surprised that retailers are letting them get away with the PSPgo in the first place. Consoles have never made much money for retailers - the software is the bread and butter of the industry. If you remove that from the equation, then why bother with the PSPgo at all?

It's too bad that they didn't show examples of the cheaper UMD games that are on there, though I guess they wanted the article to stay one-sided on the issue. I'm sure you can find any of the UMD games for cheaper if you look hard enough or wait long enough as a counterpoint to any deals. Just going through the list of games and cross-referencing them with GameStop's New and Used prices:

I think you kind of missed the point by comparing used games to digital downloads - all of the prices they used were retail for new copies. Temporary deals on CAG aside, I don't think that list would look so favorable for Sony if you replaced the prices with new titles.

Unless I'm missing something, I have the same problem with this that I do the Xbox Games on Demand feature - I don't see why digital downloads should cost as much as the physical product. There's no distribution, no manufacturing, no physical product I can resell or trade if I desire, and it's tied to one account that either company has the power to ban at will. I've also got to provide the bandwidth to download the game, and the storage space for the game. I'm just not seeing much of a benefit here.

[FriskyTanuki]

Honestly, I'm a little surprised that retailers are letting them get away with the PSPgo in the first place. Consoles have never made much money for retailers - the software is the bread and butter of the industry. If you remove that from the equation, then why bother with the PSPgo at all?
How does the iPhone/Touch work for retailers? Is it just accessories or is there any money in it for the retailers?

I think you kind of missed the point by comparing used games to digital downloads - all of the prices they used were retail for new copies. Temporary deals on CAG aside, I don't think that list would look so favorable for Sony if you replaced the prices with new titles.

Unless I'm missing something, I have the same problem with this that I do the Xbox Games on Demand feature - I don't see why digital downloads should cost as much as the physical product. There's no distribution, no manufacturing, no physical product I can resell or trade if I desire, and it's tied to one account that either company has the power to ban at will. I've also got to provide the bandwidth to download the game, and the storage space for the game. I'm just not seeing much of a benefit here.
I get the point of the article. They're talking about the bad deals on the PS Store, but do you really think you could find any PSP game you'd want in a store new? I picked GameStop because they could potentially offer two conditions and also have a retail/web presence to cover a few different bases at once. I've purchased games like Work Time Fun, Me and My Katamari, and Ridge Racer used because nobody still carried them and they were $10 or less.

Because retailers have a huge part in pricing of digital versions of retail games, Sony, Microsoft, and the publishers can't screw over the retailers and go cheaper without risking their retail presence, as well. As for Games on Demand, Microsoft seems to not recognize that games from the launch year aren't being stocked by retailers anymore, so there's no excuse to price stuff like Call of Duty 2, Rockstar's Table Tennis, and Rainbow Six Vegas at $30 since those are all probably $10 or less at GameStop for anyone that's missed them. At least in the PS Store, those older games seem to not be tied to any pricing structures and are probably up to the publisher to choose what they think is an appropriate price. Of course, that leads to Sony and Ubisoft's high pricing of their titles.

[h3llbring3r]

How does the iPhone/Touch work for retailers? Is it just accessories or is there any money in it for the retailers?

I realize you're being rhetorical but we both know the iPhone was never sold solely to move software- specifically for the gaming industry. Its hardware cost is also subsidized by the mandatory monthly data plan benefiting it's exclusive retailer / service provider. I've yet to see eb/gamestop or any dedicated gaming store sell a Touch, and why would they. While larger electronics retailers like BBy are moving the touch (and even iPhone at BBy) they are also selling the iTunes cards and accessories.

I never thought there was much profit margin on the iTunes cards but the frequency of buy 2 GOF and the ubiquitous $30 pack for $20 at costco makes me curious if there isn't a good 25-33% profit on those. This is likely the source of the profitability for retailers and their additional motivation.

Maybe if PSN cards are priced similarly in store it might be worthwhile (giving the consumer an incentive to buy them in store vs. online purchases and giving the retailer a sales incentive), but I can certainly see how the niche gaming market (and obviously the used gaming market) feels like they're getting an end-around run on them. Given Sony's current and previous pricing moves being a guide I am seriously skeptical that this will happen.

I think the first months sales will be solid driven by the early adopters and eBay flippers; while everyone else is going to play the wait and see game how the UMD program, PSN pricing for games/minis and the possible DD game rental service shake out.

I grow more and more skeptical every day.

[Bluth Superfan]

The closer we get to launch the more I am feeling like the Go will be a bomb of epic proportions. Just too many issues...

[FriskyTanuki]

I realize your being rhetorical but we both know the iPhone was never sold solely to move software- specifically for the gaming industry. Its hardware cost is also subsidized by the mandatory monthly data plan benefiting it's exclusive retailer / service provider. I've yet to see eb/gamestop or any dedicated gaming store sell a Touch, and why would they. While larger electronics retailers like BBy are moving the touch (and even iPhone at BBy) they are also selling the iTunes cards and accessories.

I never thought there was much profit margin on the iTunes cards but the frequency of buy 2 GOF and the ubiquitous $30 pack for $20 at costco makes me curious if there isn't a good 25-33% profit on those. This is the source of the profitability for retailers and the their additional motivation.

Maybe if PSN cards are priced similarly in store it might be worthwhile (giving the consumer an incentive to buy them in store vs. online purchases and giving the retailer a sales incentive), but I can certainly see how the niche gaming market (and obviously the used gaming market) feels like they're getting an end-around run on them. Given Sony's current and previous pricing moves being a guide I am seriously skeptical that this will happen.

I think the first months sales will be solid driven by the early adopters and eBay flippers; while everyone else is going to play the wait and see game how the UMD program, PSN pricing for games/minis and the possible DD game rental service shake out.

I grow more and more skeptical every day.
I didn't think of the iTunes cards, though that much of a margin on them sounds a bit odd compared to what MS, Nintendo, and Sony's cards probably cost retailers.

[h3llbring3r]

I didn't think of the iTunes cards, though that much of a margin on them sounds a bit odd compared to what MS, Nintendo, and Sony's cards probably cost retailers.
Granted: It's all guesstimation. However, that's got to be in the ball park with the frequency of those deals. If Sony were to take that track maybe- but then unlike the iPhone/iTunes/Touch they have the legacy PSP consoles that don't make money in-line with that model so that seems pretty unlikely.

More and more, it seems we are all wishing they had just made a PSP2 with a second analog and released it later next year with some kind of UMD-to-DD trade-in (in lieu of BC) program for it. I know would have been much more interested and surely both products could have coexisted with the ≈$100 price disparity. Unfortunately, a PSP2 seems even farther away from reality now.

I think a 5 year run for a hand held is plenty long; especially, if they were to do a UMD program for a PSP2 (realizing people will immediately point to the DS- we can all agree that it is way "long in the tooth" graphically). The whole PSPSgo thing seems half-hearted, poorly planned, even more poorly priced and a huge half step towards nothing but slightly better portability and the promise of reduced piracy. Sony should stop looking at Nintendo as a market model, I really don't think they are the same buyers. Despite the fact that the DS prints money, I think the PSPgo is going to drink it like a bum does cheap bourbon (A slick polished looking bum with simulated chrome and crystal clear lexan eyes waggling his single analog stick- oh I took that too far)

Lets not forget all new proprietary peripherals at great prices (until meritline/alibaba gets a hold of them). :D

[Chibi_Kaji]

Honestly, I'm a little surprised that retailers are letting them get away with the PSPgo in the first place. Consoles have never made much money for retailers - the software is the bread and butter of the industry. If you remove that from the equation, then why bother with the PSPgo at all?
It's not really that surprising. Retailers such as Gamestop know people will trade in old PSPs and games towards the PSPGo(They make most of their money selling used products). And for other places it's just another product to sell(perhaps with a protection plan?) that will bring people into their store. Also there is a PSP 4000 on the way so retailers know UMD isn't going anywhere yet.

[FriskyTanuki]

Granted: It's all guesstimation. However, that's got to be in the ball park with the frequency of those deals. If Sony were to take that track maybe- but then unlike the iTune/Touch they have the legacy PSP consoles that don't make money in-line with that model so that seems pretty unlikely.

More and more, it seems we are all wishing they had just made a PSP2 with a second analog and released it later next year with some kind of UMD-to-DD trade-in (in lieu of BC) program for it. I know would have been much more interested and surely both products could have coexisted with the ≈$100 price disparity. Unfortunately, a PSP2 seems even farther away from reality now.

I think a 5 year run for a hand held is plenty long; especially, if they were to do a UMD program for a PSP2 (realizing people will immediately point to the DS- we can all agree that it is way "long in the tooth" graphically). The whole PSPSgo thing seems half-hearted, poorly planned, even more poorly priced and a huge half step towards nothing but slightly better portability and the promise of reduced piracy. Sony should stop looking at Nintendo as a market model, I really don't think they are the same buyers. Despite the fact that the DS prints money, I think the PSPgo is going to drink it like cheap bourbon.

Lets not forget all new proprietary peripherals at great prices (until meritline/alibaba gets a hold of them). :D
I think the Go was a bit rushed due to the threats of publishers being ready to walk out last year, so they had their hands tied a bit into making something to appease them quickly. It's at least pushed them to get more content onto the PS Store, both original and UMD.

The price and the lack of news on the goodwill program are the big issues for me, though the former could probably be dropped to $200 sometime next year alongside the launch of the rumored PSP-4000. The goodwill program would be nice to know about ASAP since it would decide whether I should go for a larger memory stick in the near future or wait for the Go to drop so I don't waste money for extra storage that I'd get in the future anyway.

[h3llbring3r]

I think the Go was a bit rushed due to the threats of publishers being ready to walk out last year, so they had their hands tied a bit into making something to appease them quickly. It's at least pushed them to get more content onto the PS Store, both original and UMD.

The price and the lack of news on the goodwill program are the big issues for me, though the former could probably be dropped to $200 sometime next year alongside the launch of the rumored PSP-4000. The goodwill program would be nice to know about ASAP since it would decide whether I should go for a larger memory stick in the near future or wait for the Go to drop so I don't waste money for extra storage that I'd get in the future anyway.

Very true.

Depending on your use, you may want the extra storage anyway.
UMD's are usually like 150mb but go all the way up to 1.2gb for things like FIFA. I have no idea the size of the newer UMD/PSN games for PSP, as my PSP is on extended loan to a family member.

Not counting game saves, mp3s, videos, OS . . . 16gb can go faster than you think. I am micro managing my 16gb iphone as it is and only have about 20 games on it. A new m2 with an adapter might be a safe bet.

[Chibi_Kaji]

It would be nice to hear about the Goodwill program. But since I'm holding on to my PSP 1000(I have a few import games) it's something I'm not that worried about.

[FriskyTanuki]

Very true.

Depending on your use, you may want the extra storage anyway.
UMD's are usually like 150mb but go all the way up to 1.2gb for things like FIFA. I have no idea the size of the newer UMD/PSN games for PSP, as my PSP is on extended loan to a family member.

Not counting game saves, mp3s, videos, OS . . . 16gb can go faster than you think. I am micro managing my 16gb iphone as it is and only have about 20 games on it. A new m2 with an adapter might be a safe bet.
There's also the issue of storage formats since the Go uses the new mini memory stick format that isn't compatible with the MSPD's now, so I'd be more willing to wait with word on what the goodwill program is. It would be nice to here of an adapter to allow use of MSPDs with the Go, but I can't find anything like that with a quick search.

Right now, I have a 2 GB stick with about four games (MotorStorm, Patapon 2, Beats, and echochrome), some RBU DLC, audio stuff, photos, and saves with about ~450 MB of space left, so I've got some room left before going for an 8 GB stick if I continue to not here anything out of Sony.

[Gothic Walrus]

Because retailers have a huge part in pricing of digital versions of retail games, Sony, Microsoft, and the publishers can't screw over the retailers and go cheaper without risking their retail presence, as well.

This is the part of the strategy I don't get. I don't think that UMDs are part of Sony's long-term retail presence plans - I think this is the first step toward eliminating physical media entirely for their handhelds. Why worry about driving retailers away if it's going to happen as a result of your plans for the near future anyway?

Besides, Sony has enough of a presence through consumer electronics, movies, music, and the PS3 and its software; I would think that that might be enough to convince retailers to carry the PSPgo even if it isn't the major breadwinner.

Sony will hurt a few feelings if the digital downloads are cheaper than the physical copies, but if you keep the prices comparable or higher, it's going to seriously hurt the PSPgo's chances of succeeding. Other than the higher storage capacity (although, honestly, I'm fine with swapping memory cards out) and the smaller size, I just don't see much reason to get a PSPgo instead of one of the older models.

Lets not forget all new proprietary peripherals at great prices (until meritline/alibaba gets a hold of them). :D

I still have no idea what Sony was thinking there. It's not going to generate the tidal wave of profits they're hoping for, that's for sure. :wall:

[lionheart4life]

I don't know a single person who wants the PSP Go. But I will certainly buy a cheaper used PSP when it comes out. The white color is cool but honestly there is really no need for this system at this point and digital only will suck, no doubt about it.

[Chibi_Kaji]

This is the part of the strategy I don't get. I don't think that UMDs are part of Sony's long-term retail presence plans - I think this is the first step toward eliminating physical media entirely for their handhelds. Why worry about driving retailers away if it's going to happen as a result of your plans for the near future anyway?
If retailers don't carry the PSPGo who will? It's not as if Sony has a store of it's own. So they have no choice but to rely on the retailers to stock their stuff.

[FriskyTanuki]

Except that it's not just a Sony issue since Microsoft is dealing with that pressure, as well. Sony risks even more retailers not stocking the Go, though I don't know if Patapon 2-style download codes would help change their minds or not.

The peripheral thing is something almost every takes advantage of with new systems, from new colors of every peripheral for MS, to the new PS3 stand for the Slim, to new stylii and accessories for the DSi and new stuff for the Go. If they follow through with the adapter they mentioned for the old accessories, that would help them out. The Go even screws SCEA since they have a few PSP camera games that can't work with the Go because of the new proprietary port and the camera itself has yet to be released here, so it's a weird situation overall.

[Gothic Walrus]

If retailers don't carry the PSPGo who will? It's not as if Sony has a store of it's own.

Wrong. (http://www.sonystyle.com/retail)

Admittedly, we're talking about a handful of stores across the country, but they do have their own retail stores.

Except that it's not just a Sony issue since Microsoft is dealing with that pressure, as well. Sony risks even more retailers not stocking the Go, though I don't know if Patapon 2-style download codes would help change their minds or not.

The peripheral thing is something almost every takes advantage of with new systems, from new colors of every peripheral for MS, to the new PS3 stand for the Slim, to new stylii and accessories for the DSi and new stuff for the Go. If they follow through with the adapter they mentioned for the old accessories, that would help them out. The Go even screws SCEA since they have a few PSP camera games that can't work with the Go because of the new proprietary port and the camera itself has yet to be released here, so it's a weird situation overall.

Honestly, I think the retail codes would go a long way towards easing the fear of retailers. I'm not sure how many people would bother to buy that version of the game, but if you package it like they did with the PS3 version of Marvel vs. Capcom 2 - throw some goodies into the package along with the code - I can't see why it wouldn't work.

As far as alienating people goes, I really think the only ones Sony could possibly alienate (right now, at least) would be independent game stores. Even then, if they refuse to carry the PSPgo they won't stop carrying the PS3. It's going to take even more work to piss off the big box retailers - how many headphones, stereos, TVs, speakers, albums, movies, and games have the Sony logo on their box in a given Target or Best Buy? Even if Sony was to do something colossally stupid like try to strong-arm them into carrying the PSPgo against their will, they wouldn't abandon Sony.

As it stands now, I've already got my doubts about how well the PSP has worked for retailers. Whenever I look at clearance racks, I see more PSP games there than games for any other system, and occasionally (like on my last trip to K-Mart) for all of the other systems combined. While that's anecdotal, it does raise another potential argument - if the PSP is already not selling well, that's even less incentive to carry the PSPgo.

The apparent lack of demand for the PSPgo might actually be in Sony's favor, though - it'd be a lot easier to talk people into carrying it if they don't have to keep a large number of systems in stock.

Bottom line for that: I think that we're blowing the "alienating retailers" argument out of proportion a bit, because unless I'm completely misreading the situation, I don't think they're too wild about the PSP to begin with. Even if they aren't happy with the PSPgo, though, Sony has enough other products to keep that relationship between store and supplier alive.

As for the accessories...maybe I'm an exception, but I don't think I've purchased any accessories for my DS Lite other than a case. Same for my 360 - the only accessory I've purchased for that was a Vision camera bundle, because it was $5 at Sears. Most accessories aren't necessary, and I can't imagine that there's going to be a rush to get new ones that are only compatible with the PSPgo.

[J7.]

Sony can't lower the prices of digital games or retailers will give them even more to worry about. The Go is needed to combat piracy and is an answer to DSiWare & Apple's app store games. To just ignore what Apple has been able to do would hurt Sony even more in the long run. Having the onboard 16 gb flash memory is important with their strategy going forward.

Having a PSP2 come out this year would've been a bad choice, especially with the economy and how Sony has been doing with PS3. They should not release a new system and lose money on that when they can utilize the large userbase of the PSP to make some money. Plus if digital downloads don't fly well, it's much better to risk that on the PSP than it would be to risk that right at the the launch of a new console. If they did it could be the death of the console right from the start, whereas here they still have the 3000 model as a safeguard.

[h3llbring3r]

Having a PSP2 come out this year would've been a bad choice, especially with the economy and how Sony has been doing with PS3. They should not release a new system and lose money on that when they can utilize the large userbase of the PSP to make some money. Plus if digital downloads don't fly well, it's much better to risk that on the PSP than it would be to risk that right at the the launch of a new console. If they did it could be the death of the console right from the start, whereas here they still have the 3000 model as a safeguard.

In fairness, I said "later next year" not this year.
Also, at $250 "in this economy" with a "limited" UMD program in the works, it might as well be the PSP2. What is to stop Sony from making PSN games & minis that work on both platforms?


Except it's not any of that- which is worse since it means the same 5 year old graphics capabilities, and even more compromises like no 2nd numb or touch screen. It's all compromise and no sizzle.

It's $49 from the full MSRP of a PS3 slim. A PSP2 with a guaranteed UMD mail in conversion would have been a slam dunk, this is a hard sell.

Why invest $250 in 5 year old technology that does less than it's compatible legacy platform and may, heavy emphasis on may, be replaced yet again in just a few short years.


It would be foolish for Sony to count on stemming piracy for the long term. I imagine that they will succeed in the short term- but at the cost of a broader buyer base and alienating potential buyers seems some pretty weak reasoning. Like Frisky said, I think this is more about pacifying the Dev.'s fears and less about the gaming market.

[The Mana Knight]

Sony can't lower the prices of digital games or retailers will give them even more to worry about. The Go is needed to combat piracy and is an answer to DSiWare & Apple's app store games. To just ignore what Apple has been able to do would hurt Sony even more in the long run. Having the onboard 16 gb flash memory is important with their strategy going forward.

Having a PSP2 come out this year would've been a bad choice, especially with the economy and how Sony has been doing with PS3. They should not release a new system and lose money on that when they can utilize the large userbase of the PSP to make some money. Plus if digital downloads don't fly well, it's much better to risk that on the PSP than it would be to risk that right at the the launch of a new console. If they did it could be the death of the console right from the start, whereas here they still have the 3000 model as a safeguard.Pretty much.

The situation with game prices is, Sony/SCEA just cannot undercut retailers. For an example, lets take FF Dissidia (lets say its released as download for $30 and UMD for $40 on release). Lets also say a retailer stocks 10 copies of Dissidia. When people can buy Dissidia cheaper elsewhere, its likely the retailer will sell less copies of Dissidia and deal with unsold inventory. In order for them to clear it, they'd have to try to match the PS Store, and maybe take a hit profit wise. Basically, Sony becomes their big competitor like other retailers, yet they are carrying a Sony product that may hurt them a little. When UMD and digital release is the same price, that puts Sony and retailers on the same level as far as price is concerned and people can buy what they prefer. While more might buy retail because they feel they are getting a better deal, it at least keeps the retailer happy they aren't being undercut and they are selling more copies of the game probably. While its definitely cheaper to go digital compared to UMD, the retailer is still part of the problem (retailers are very important to SCEA, and there's no way they want to get in a bad relationship with them). This is why Video Store, XB Originals, Xbox 360 retail games on XBL Marketplace, etc. are the same or sometimes more expensive than retail. With classic games that aren't sold anymore, its a bit easier to price cheap. For some older games which never truly received a universal price drop (like Parappa The Rapper), you will see some retailers sell it for cheap, some will still be $30. And when that happens, Sony's best bet is to price around the middle since pricing too low would probably anger every retailer.

Some say the PSP Go is too expensive and Sony should lower the price. There are three main reasons the PSP Go is price the way it is:
-Sony has to give retailers a larger profit margin compared to normal gaming hardware profit margins (which are very tiny), in order to make the retailer willing to cell it (because retailers make money from game sales, and when they cannot buy games at retailers, there goes a ton of retailer profits).
-There is no way Sony is going to take a hit on two gaming hardware. Sony is already losing money on PS3, and there's no way there are going to lose money on another gaming platform when they have already been losing as a company.
-The PSP Go is kind of a test market too. By having the higher price, if it isn't successful, Sony would take too big of a hit. What Sony is trying to do here is use the PSP Go to determine whether the world is ready for digital distribution fully, like for PS4 and the next PSP. If it isn't so successful, then they are likely to continue using some sort of disc format for another generation.
-Some say Sony should just make PSP Go cheaper and just completely make money off of higher game sales due to more PSP Go's out there. That might work, might now. If people bought a PSP Go and never bought a game (and lets say Sony either breaks even or losing money by the price of the Go), then that basically puts Sony in a pretty big hole, and they don't want to be in that position.

As for as good will UMD program, its really tough to come up with something good because there are some people who are dishonest and will find a way to cheat the system.

[J7.]

In fairness, I said "later next year" not this year.
Also, at $250 "in this economy" with a "limited" UMD program in the works, it might as well be the PSP2. What is to stop Sony from making PSN games & minis that work on both platforms?


Except it's not any of that- which is worse since it means the same 5 year old graphics capabilities, and even more compromises like no 2nd numb or touch screen. It's all compromise and no sizzle.

It's $49 from the full MSRP of a PS3 slim. A PSP2 with a guaranteed UMD mail in conversion would have been a slam dunk, this is a hard sell.

Why invest $250 in 5 year old technology that does less than it's compatible legacy platform and may, heavy emphasis on may, be replaced yet again in just a few short years.


It would be foolish for Sony to count on stemming piracy for the long term. I imagine that they will succeed in the short term- but at the cost of a broader buyer base and alienating potential buyers seems some pretty weak reasoning. Like Frisky said, I think this is more about pacifying the Dev.'s fears and less about the gaming market.
Noted.

Maybe they will make Minis & PSN games work on PSP2 when it releases, but even if they did I still think it's too early for PSP2 & I doubt people would buy PSP2 with Minis/PSP PSN games in mind. People would bitch about why they should buy PSP2 for Minis/PSP PSN games they can play on PSP.

Sure it's going to be 5 years old in half a year, but that is something we will see more and more of, as companies want to lengthen console/handheld cycles more to maximize profitability. They did open up developers to be able to use the full clock speed of the PSP in 2008 so combined with learning the hardware better there is room for PSP games to improve. Do you really want touch screen games on every device? To me that is not a +. There's enough touch screen games on Ipod and DS, I'm glad I don't have them taking up space in place of button control games on PSP.

It is a hard sell, I never said the price was good, it's not. That's why I'll wait for it to drop. This launch price is for those with no patience, those with money, or those who are in love with PSP. Those people will buy it for that price.

If that's the way you feel you shouldn't buy the PSP. Just stick with the one you own, there's nothing wrong with it.

They had to do something about piracy. All the asshole pirates out there have pretty much forced this on them.


There are three main reasons the PSP Go is price the way it is:
-Sony has to give retailers a larger profit margin compared to normal gaming hardware profit margins (which are very tiny), in order to make the retailer willing to cell it (because retailers make money from game sales, and when they cannot buy games at retailers, there goes a ton of retailer profits).
Very good point.
-The PSP Go is kind of a test market too. By having the higher price, if it isn't successful, Sony would take too big of a hit. What Sony is trying to do here is use the PSP Go to determine whether the world is ready for digital distribution fully, like for PS4 and the next PSP. If it isn't so successful, then they are likely to continue using some sort of disc format for another generation.
This is what I was trying to say, you did a better job of describing it.
-Some say Sony should just make PSP Go cheaper and just completely make money off of higher game sales due to more PSP Go's out there. That might work, might now. If people bought a PSP Go and never bought a game (and lets say Sony either breaks even or losing money by the price of the Go), then that basically puts Sony in a pretty big hole, and they don't want to be in that position.
Another overlooked point.

[FriskyTanuki]

The way they could do the UMD goodwill program is to essentially cut off an arm to save the rest of the body by instituting a cut-off date for eligible games and allow you to send your games in to get the code(s) for a digital copy. Any game after that date is not eligible and you're stuck with making the choice between digital or UMD for the games that follow. Having a program for sending games in at least limits the amount of free copies they'd have to offer, though it kind of shrinks the amount of UMD's that are out there for those buying the other PSP models.

An alternative could be a more rebate-like system where you'd have to provide a receipt and scan of the boxart and/or UMD so that you could sell it and keep those games in the marketplace, but it would still require a purchase and not allow the potential for GameFly to be used to own every game for free. I don't know how much of a check they could perform to make sure people aren't sending around the same copy of the game and receipt like the Fallout 3 expansion trains that are running on CAG.

[Tux.Bobble]

The way they could do the UMD goodwill program is to essentially cut off an arm to save the rest of the body by instituting a cut-off date for eligible games and allow you to send your games in to get the code(s) for a digital copy. Any game after that date is not eligible and you're stuck with making the choice between digital or UMD for the games that follow. Having a program for sending games in at least limits the amount of free copies they'd have to offer, though it kind of shrinks the amount of UMD's that are out there for those buying the other PSP models.

An alternative could be a more warranty-like system where you'd have to provide a receipt and scan of the boxart and/or UMD so that you could sell it and keep those games in the marketplace, but it would still require a purchase and not allow the potential for GameFly to be used to own every game for free. I don't know how much of a check they could perform to make sure people aren't sending around the same copy of the game and receipt like the Fallout 3 expansion trains that are running on CAG.

I doubt the receipt thing would work too well, personally. Do you really have receipts of every UMD you've purchased? I don't have a single receipt for most of my PS2 games, personally. I do have some from PS3 games, but that's just because I'm post-college and getting a full-time job it's a good idea to track these things. (It's always a good idea, I just didn't take it seriously before)

Still, scanning the box art means nothing--one person could buy a game, not even take it out of the plastic, and return it later. That gets by the receipt thing too if you scan... Still I just don't see it working that way. I imagine they'd force trading the UMD in completely (or charging a premium if you don't)

[chakan]

I always assumed a good-will UMD program would involve mailing in the actual media. I am dismayed that we haven't heard anything about the plan since June.
I also find it really strange that games like Resistance: Retribution aren't available on PSN.

[h3llbring3r]

I always assumed a good-will UMD program would involve mailing in the actual media. I am dismayed that we haven't heard anything about the plan since June.
I also find it really strange that games like Resistance: Retribution aren't available on PSN.

That's what I had assumed. I even expected them to require a single preregistered PSN account, locking the "good will" titles to that single account. Thereby limiting exploitation to at most account sharing and preventing code resales.

[Tux.Bobble]

I always assumed a good-will UMD program would involve mailing in the actual media. I am dismayed that we haven't heard anything about the plan since June.
I also find it really strange that games like Resistance: Retribution aren't available on PSN.

And apparently nothing about it at Sony's TGS keynote, either. What the hell, Sony, what the hell...

[Tux.Bobble]

Can't take credit for this, but I saw it on Slickdeals:

http://forums.slickdeals.net/showthread.php?threadid=1573399

Odds are it came from here in the first place, but not in this thread yet, lol...

[J7.]

Can't take credit for this, but I saw it on Slickdeals:

http://forums.slickdeals.net/showthread.php?threadid=1573399

Odds are it came from here in the first place, but not in this thread yet, lol...
What is DPA?

[h3llbring3r]

What is DPA?
Dell preferred account.

http://www.dell.com/content/topics/segtopic.aspx/dpa_learnmore?c=us&l=en&cs=19 (http://www.dell.com/content/topics/segtopic.aspx/dpa_learnmore?c=us&l=en&cs=19)

Get one, they're GRRRRRRRRRRRRREAT.

[Tux.Bobble]

Btw, I hope I've spoken too soon. Apparently there's a Sony press conference coming up momentarily, which I was unaware of. I thought that intro was it...which would have been dreadfully disappointing...

[FriskyTanuki]

From the G4 liveblog, this is the gift early adopters in Japan get:

Japanese early adopters can pick from one free game out of 14 titles for download.

[Tux.Bobble]

From the G4 liveblog, this is the gift early adopters in Japan get:

Yea...way to jip the US...

[Chibi_Kaji]

Yea...way to jip the US...
Thats always the case.

[Tux.Bobble]

Thats always the case.

Well, with the PSP Go it is. Usually we get some decent treatment. But if Sony wasn't originally Japanese, I'd consider filing for domestic abuse. Wonder if I can get SCEA for it...

[Ivanhoe]

*******PSPgo upgraders to receive three free games*********

Sony has announced that people with existing UMD games who want to upgrade to the new PSPgo, due out on October 1, will receive three free downloads of full games.

The PSPgo Rewards program involves registering a PSPgo on PSN, then logging on to PSN with an existing PSP with a UMD in the drive, which allows you to download a special PSPgo theme and then presents you with a voucher via email for use with the PSPgo.

The voucher will be redeemable for three of 17 available titles, which will include Killzone: Liberation, SOCOM: US Navy SEALs Fireteam Bravo 3, WipEout Pure, Everybody's Golf, echochrome, Buzz!: Brain Bender, Buzz!: Master Quiz, LocoRoco and Patapon, reports Eurogamer.

PSPgo Rewards will be available from October 1 until March 31 2010 and is open to people with any existing PSP model and at least one UMD who buy and register a PSPgo during that timeframe.

The issue of how people with existing PSPs might "upgrade" their UMD collections to work on the download-only PSPgo has been debated since the system's E3 unveiling, but a solution has yet to be announced by Sony.

http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/pspgo-upgraders-to-receive-three-free-games

[h3llbring3r]

*******PSPgo upgraders to receive three free games*********

Sony has announced that people with existing UMD games who want to upgrade to the new PSPgo, due out on October 1, will receive three free downloads of full games.

The PSPgo Rewards program involves registering a PSPgo on PSN, then logging on to PSN with an existing PSP with a UMD in the drive, which allows you to download a special PSPgo theme and then presents you with a voucher via email for use with the PSPgo.

The voucher will be redeemable for three of 17 available titles, which will include Killzone: Liberation, SOCOM: US Navy SEALs Fireteam Bravo 3, WipEout Pure, Everybody's Golf, echochrome, Buzz!: Brain Bender, Buzz!: Master Quiz, LocoRoco and Patapon, reports Eurogamer.

PSPgo Rewards will be available from October 1 until March 31 2010 and is open to people with any existing PSP model and at least one UMD who buy and register a PSPgo during that timeframe.

The issue of how people with existing PSPs might "upgrade" their UMD collections to work on the download-only PSPgo has been debated since the system's E3 unveiling, but a solution has yet to be announced by Sony.

http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/pspgo-upgraders-to-receive-three-free-games

:-s
Let's hope that's not the full scope of the program.

[Halo05]

:-s
Let's hope that's not the full scope of the program.

That's only for Japan though right? Echochrome never got a UMD release here.

[Ivanhoe]

That's only for Japan though right? Echochrome never got a UMD release here.

The only clue is it says it starts Oct 1st. which is the usa and europe release date for the go.

Japan is nov 1st.

[h3llbring3r]

That's only for Japan though right? Echochrome never got a UMD release here.

The original cited article is Eurogamer (http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/three-free-games-for-pspgo-upgraders), was it released there?



Also,

Sony also unveiled (http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/sony-shows-pspgo-converter-cable-thing) a PSPgo converter cable adapter today, which will allow existing PSP peripherals, such as the 1Seg Tuner and GPS receiver, to be used with the upgraded hardware.

I don't have either but that's good.

[Chibi_Kaji]

I'm confused... G4 says one thing and Eurogamer says another... Did someone make a mistake?

[blackjaw]

According to Kotaku, it doesn't matter that you have the actual UMD of the game you want, just any one UMD (hell, pick up Jaxter for $3 at EBgames) will work and you can download any three of the available games for free.

Pretty lame IMO. Why would I still have my old PSP3000 if I were buying a Go? Wouldn't the rational person trade it in or sell it to raise funds for the GO? I guess I could hold onto mine until after then just sell it away on eBay or here at CAG, but its kind of backwards thinking.

If this is their "rewards" program, where is the "goodwill" program? Or are they one in the same?

[RedvsBlue]

I'm confused... G4 says one thing and Eurogamer says another... Did someone make a mistake?

Yep, Sony did...

[Chibi_Kaji]

Kotaku is reporting this deal is for European territories....

[Saint Noir]

Super lame. Really glad I jumped on a 3000 with the amazon promo.

[Nibi]

I guess this explains why Sony was being so coy about their "Good will" program. This screws people who have A) Already sold their PSPs in anticipation of the Go release. B) Were planning on cashing in on inevitable Gamestop tradein promos.

[blackjaw]

I guess this explains why Sony was being so coy about their "Good will" program. This screws people who have A) Already sold their PSPs in anticipation of the Go release. B) Were planning on cashing in on inevitable Gamestop tradein promos.

C) Are outside of the European territory.

[62t]

I am pretty sure the the USA trade in plan will be more or less the same.

[h3llbring3r]

I am pretty sure the the USA trade in plan will be more or less the same.
Keep hope alive man.

[Gothic Walrus]

If this is their "rewards" program, where is the "goodwill" program? Or are they one in the same?

They're probably the same.

[hitmandls2]

Kotaku is now reporting that sony will not offer a UMD trade in program.

[h3llbring3r]

Kotaku is now reporting that sony will not offer a UMD trade in program.
FUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUCK. That seals it.
</thread>

Edit:
sony-nixes-plans-for-umd-conversion-program-for-pspgo (http://kotaku.com/5367207/sony-nixes-plans-for-umd-conversion-program-for-pspgo)

[Gothic Walrus]

FUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUCK. That seals it.
</thread>

Edit:
sony-nixes-plans-for-umd-conversion-program-for-pspgo (http://kotaku.com/5367207/sony-nixes-plans-for-umd-conversion-program-for-pspgo)

No kidding. A $250 system with no upgrades to its graphics or control scheme, that's not compatible with any of the existing games or accessories, and which is forced to buy all of its games from Sony's online store?

This seems like the final nail in the coffin. I can't see this thing succeeding. Maybe with a substantial price cut, but the lack of the UMD exchange program is going to eliminate anybody who would have bought the PSPgo as an upgrade to their older models. With that group removed...I just don't see much of a market for this device.

And the sad thing is, if Sony hadn't mentioned the goodwill program, all of the bad press they just generated wouldn't exist.

[lilboo]

:rofl: No chance I'm getting this at all. Not until there's a price drop.. or SOME reason to get it..

[seanr1221]

My iPhone will work just fine for my morning commute.

Fuck you, sony.

[SEH]

I've never had any intention to buy this, or any form of PSP, however, I felt like chiming in on Sony offering no sort of way to get your UMD games on the Go. It seems like a total stab in the back to early adopters of the PSP. I honestly do not see this thing succeeding at all.

[blackjaw]

I might still buy it eventually, just not right now. I'm pretty happy just playing my PSone games that are on PSN off my mem stick.

If every game studio is going to start releasing digital, then, and only then, will I get one. I don't want to be left out in the cold waiting for a game that is on UMD but not digital and regretting buying the GO. Hell, I really want to play FF:Dissidia but am waiting to see if Squeenix releases a digital version first, something they've made no mention of, which bugs me.

The PSP Go: great idea, horrible execution.

[Tux.Bobble]

I've never had any intention to buy this, or any form of PSP, however, I felt like chiming in on Sony offering no sort of way to get your UMD games on the Go. It seems like a total stab in the back to early adopters of the PSP. I honestly do not see this thing succeeding at all.

It's really beginning to piss me off to be honest. Sony has avoided the subject for long enough. And I preordered the Go. It's coming Oct 1st, release date delivery, via Amazon Prime.

What am I going to do? I don't know, I have 7 days to decide ifI want to bring it back to a store for store credit. (I got it at a discount, so i'd mean earning money, unlike cancelling) But I don't own a PSP, and I do want to be able to PLAY a PSP. So...3000, 2000, or Go...

Damn Sony. Damn them entirely. The PSP Go issues start with GT PSP going to European preorder-ers, and now there's no UMD program at all for US? They're lucky I bought my PS3 so long ago--I honestly would consider avoiding Sony's gaming division for this kind of bs. I love their systems, and love Sony in general, but things like this shed light on how Sony really feels about (and treats) their customers. I don't know if I'll be back to this thread for a while. I'm getting disgusted thinking about these discussions right now, and all of Sony's bs...

[J7.]

I agree it sucks right now. However, they said no umd program in place at this time due to legal and technical reasons, that means it's still possible. That should be reflected in the OP instead of acting like its 100% never possible. I don't see what the problem is just continuing to use the PSP you own or buying a 3000. Sure it's unforunate but there are still options.

[RedvsBlue]

So, at this point what kind of failure are we talking? Virtual Boy, Lynx, Game Gear? Which one will it be?

[h3llbring3r]

Sure it's unforunate but there are still options.
There are, but this is the "go" thread.

So, at this point what kind of failure are we talking? Virtual Boy, Lynx, Game Gear? Which one will it be?

Atari Jaguar CD-Rom drive.

[RedvsBlue]

I agree it sucks right now. However, they said no umd program in place at this time due to legal and technical reasons, that means it's still possible. That should be reflected in the OP instead of acting like its 100% never possible. I don't see what the problem is just continuing to use the PSP you own or buying a 3000. Sure it's unforunate but there are still options.

Here's the deal, any solution they have right now to allow you to download UMDs to the new PSP would probably circumvent any copy protection on UMDs thus completely gutting any support for the original PSP/UMDs from publishers. They probably are starting to doubt the success of the Go so if they alienate any developer support for the original PSP/UMDs and the Go doesn't take off they'd be completely dead in the water.

Now they can release the Go, spend a marginal amount of money keeping it going and shift their focus back to the original PSP. Have a kind of split market with PSP games continuing to get released on UMD and as digital download.

Would they like to see everyone switch to Go and drop the old PSP? Definitely, but I think they're starting to see the writing on the wall and realize that while they may sell a decent amount, perhaps enough to break even if they're lucky, the support from retailers and consumers just isn't there for a long term product.

Its really a shame that they decided to get this foolishly ambitious just as the PSP was starting to come around with new game releases ramping up. I can only hope this move doesn't end up completely destroying the PSP brand.

[Snake2715]

Bought a GO today....

listed it on Chuckwagon... if it doesn sell I will return it.

Either way it gets him some exposure.
I dont see another one, even on ebay.

http://www.chasethechuckwagon.com/item.cgi?show_item=0000202384

[The Mana Knight]

Blame all those dishonest people who pirate PSP stuff and many dishonest people in this world. It would be costly on Sony's end (shipping, hiring people to sort through games and hand out codes. What would they do with old UMDs?), and people cheating the system defeats the purpose of digital downloads in a way. For an example, people buying used games at GameStop and sending them in, Sony doesn't get any money or benefit, only GameStop or some used game seller. That defeats the purpose of them selling digital downloads (to make money). If they allowed people to rip games, you better bet people would rip them and trade them into GameStop. Even if Sony charged a small fee to do it, they'd still earn less money overall and people would probably try to find a way to hack it. Now if PSP UMDs were built from the get go where once you rip a game, the UMD would no longer work, then it would be possible.

Also, I knew for a fact not every single publisher/developer is going to agree to having their game up as a digital download in the PS Store. If some record labels/artist have issues with it for stuff, it would not shock me some publishers are the same way. If a particular publisher rather not have certain games downloadable in the PS Store, than what can Sony do (nothing, because they can't force it on them because there was no contract signed from the get go). I wouldn't be surprised if future games, developers were signed into contract they have to be released on the PS Store also or no releasing it. That also makes it hard to do a trade-in program.

To make things somewhat better, I DO see some publishers offering a temporary sale, so if you want a download to a game you own, you can buy it cheap.

But like I said, the PSP Go is just a test, NOT a PSP replacement. If it was a replacement for the PSP-3000, we would not see GT PSP and AC PSP bundled with a 3000. The Go IS intended to be a premium product, testing the digital download only area to decide whether future platforms can go DD only, or if physical media is needed.

I'm still going to buy a Go, but I plan to divide up games I get between Go and UMD. If I love the Go so much, I may stop buying UMD games all together.

[J7.]

They said no umd program in place at this time due to legal and technical reasons, that means it's still possible. That should be reflected in the OP instead of acting like its 100% never possible.

[h3llbring3r]

They said no umd program in place at this time due to legal and technical reasons, that means it's still possible. That should be reflected in the OP instead of acting like its 100% never possible.
Updated for J7.
Legal Disclaimer: There is still a chance the PSPgo can cure cancer, make your genitals grow larger, and boost your IQ by 20%.

THE MATERIALS ARE PROVIDED "AS IS" WITHOUT ANY EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTY OF ANY KIND INCLUDING WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY, NONINFRINGEMENT OF INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY, OR FITNESS FOR ANY PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL H3LLBRING3R OR HIS INFORMATION SUPPLIERS BE LIABLE FOR ANY DAMAGES WHATSOEVER (INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS, BUSINESS INTERRUPTION, LOSS OF INFORMATION) ARISING OUT OF THE USE OF OR INABILITY TO USE THE MATERIALS, EVEN IF H3LLBRING3R HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. BECAUSE SOME JURISDICTIONS PROHIBIT THE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATION OF LIABILITY FOR CONSEQUENTIAL OR INCIDENTAL DAMAGES, THE ABOVE LIMITATION MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU BUT DOES.

[hitmandls2]

I heard sony was going to make up for the lack of a UMD upgrade program by offering anyone willing to trade in an old psp a set of virtual glasses that will allow players to play games in black and red!

[Gothic Walrus]

It's really beginning to piss me off to be honest. Sony has avoided the subject for long enough. And I preordered the Go. It's coming Oct 1st, release date delivery, via Amazon Prime.

What am I going to do? I don't know, I have 7 days to decide ifI want to bring it back to a store for store credit. (I got it at a discount, so i'd mean earning money, unlike cancelling) But I don't own a PSP, and I do want to be able to PLAY a PSP. So...3000, 2000, or Go...

If I were you, I'd just go for one of the older model PSPs and a big memory stick. If you're starting fresh, the Go should be fine, but I'd still pick the older PSP for the chance of clearance, sale and used games. If the PSPgo is as underwhelming as it shapes up to be, the download store might fall into neglect.

I agree it sucks right now. However, they said no umd program in place at this time due to legal and technical reasons, that means it's still possible. That should be reflected in the OP instead of acting like its 100% never possible. I don't see what the problem is just continuing to use the PSP you own or buying a 3000. Sure it's unforunate but there are still options.

They did say that it's still possible. It's also possible that Israel and Palestine will sign a peace treaty in four hours, or that the pandas at the National Zoo will burst into flames.

"Possible" and "likely" aren't the same thing.

Given that Sony was hyping this as one of the reasons to switch to a PSPgo and they've just killed off a very large portion of their early adopter market with this announcement, there is very little benefit to getting through all of the legal and technical wrangling necessary to make this work, to start the program after the PSPgo launches. If they begin a goodwill program six months from now, there won't be nearly as many people interested in upgrading, once the launch hype is gone and people have had time to dissect the PSPgo and any of its flaws.

It may still be "possible," but I guarantee that Sony's plan now is to just wait, try to forget they ever announced plans for the goodwill program, and hope (in vain) that everybody else forgets too.

So, at this point what kind of failure are we talking? Virtual Boy, Lynx, Game Gear? Which one will it be?

The Game Boy Micro would be an apt comparison...if it was incompatible with the current generation games that shipped before its release.

Virtual Boy is probably the best fit. That said, you left a lot of options out of that list. No NGage? No CDi? No 3DO?

[Monsta Mack]

I dunno about total failure. I'm sure the Japanese crowd will buy in close to 2 million of these suckers in a month. They love their tech, and they pretty much download everything already... correct?

The UMD to download program was the biggest blow to me, second was the price, the TKO from Piston Honda was the fact theres no incentive to go with a go considering pretty much everything is coming to disc for the major releases. If your a new PSP owner or a tech junkie you'll probably get it eventually regardless.

[62t]

Sad but CFW is the only thing that is going to save PSP GO

[manthing]

Can't wait for the GO to fall the way of the 32X

Way to Fuck it up Sorny!

[Javery]

This does not bode well.

[Halo05]

:rofl::rofl::rofl::rofl::rofl::rofl:

I love that this .gif can still be used, three years after its introduction.

http://www.thebestpageintheuniverse.net/images/sony_bullshit_anim4.gif

[paddlefoot]

Warner Bros. allowed consumers to trade their HD-DVD's for Blurays after the format was discontinued. Heck, all you had to do was send in your HD-DVD jacket. Sony could easily do something similar. They can't force other publishers to do the same, but it would still create a lot of goodwill.

SOCOM
God of War: Chains of Olympus
Syphon Filter: Dark Mirror
LocoRoco
LocoRoco 2
Killzone: Liberation
Ratchet & Clank: Size Matters
Jeanne d'Arc
Syphon Filter: Logan's Shadow
Patapon
Patapon 2
Hot Shots Golf: Open Tee 2
Secret Agent Clank
MLB 09: The Show
Resistance: Retribution

[RelentlessRolento]

i recommend the OP be retitled... just like the kotaku article it's misleading.

[Gothic Walrus]

Warner Bros. allowed consumers to trade their HD-DVD's for Blurays after the format was discontinued. Heck, all you had to do was send in your HD-DVD jacket. Sony could easily do something similar. They can't force other publishers to do the same, but it would still create a lot of goodwill.

SOCOM
God of War: Chains of Olympus
Syphon Filter: Dark Mirror
LocoRoco
LocoRoco 2
Killzone: Liberation
Ratchet & Clank: Size Matters
Jeanne d'Arc
Syphon Filter: Logan's Shadow
Patapon
Patapon 2
Hot Shots Golf: Open Tee 2
Secret Agent Clank
MLB 09: The Show
Resistance: Retribution

That's actually a lot like what Sony is doing in Europe - if you access PSN using a PSP with a UMD in its drive, you can download three titles for free. Problem is, they aren't doing it here - they're doing absolutely nothing.

If they made even a slight gesture to people who already own PSPs (or hadn't promised the program in the first place), the negative reaction that they're seeing now would be much less severe.

[Gothic Walrus]

i recommend the OP be retitled... just like the kotaku article it's misleading.

Remember that feature they promised in January 2008 that allowed you to stick any Blu-ray title into your PS3 and convert it for your PSP?

What about the loss of backwards compatibility in the PS3 and the leaked rumors of the PS2 catalog appearing - for sale - on PSN?

This is the exact same thing. Due to legal issues (first example), the desire to ensure that Sony makes the profit instead of GameStop (second example), the ability to control the distribution and pricing of games with DRM (second example again)...no matter what rationale Sony used, it boils down to the same end result: they promised, in a very public way, something they either cannot or no longer desire to deliver as a feature of their product. They threw the "possible" line in there to try and pacify optimists and fanboys, but their track record leads me to believe that this will be another unfulfilled promise. Anyone who thinks otherwise is indulging in seriously wishful thinking, or delusional.

[Ryukahn]

I'm quite surprised they aren't offering ANYTHING at launch, though I couldn't care less since I decided not to get a Go a few months ago. High price plus nothing being offered isn't exactly a very attractive way of getting people to take the dive into a full DD console.

[h3llbring3r]

i recommend the OP be retitled... just like the kotaku article it's misleading.

In fairness, I did change the OP title from "no UMD program" to "no UMD program planned" which is entirely accurate. It's also the biggest related news story for the go and the "concern at large" for most PSP owners (clearly not all).

Hopefully they can work something out, and I will gladly change the title again as the situation on the ground changes (and hopefully we will get to change it again regarding a UMD trade-in).

Until then, it's consistent with the launch information. I have changed the OP on several occasions as news breaks, and will continue to do so.

[Tux.Bobble]

So, at this point what kind of failure are we talking? Virtual Boy, Lynx, Game Gear? Which one will it be?

I'm calling Game Gear. It'll be "successful" in that people know it exists, at the time it exists. But it won't last very long before people realize it's hardly the best option of the available set of portable gaming hardware.

And I've cooled off now. I think I'm still getting the Go...it's just a shame that I won't be getting as many games for a while at this rate...

There better be some good holiday PSN sales, if Sony wants this digital download only stuff to work. If Sony could emulate the Steam method--offering weekly deals, limited-time bundles, etc., I could see this taking off DECENTLY. But not greatly...

[J7.]

it boils down to the same end result: they promised, in a very public way, something they either cannot or no longer desire to deliver as a feature of their product. They threw the "possible" line in there to try and pacify optimists and fanboys, but their track record leads me to believe that this will be another unfulfilled promise. Anyone who thinks otherwise is indulging in seriously wishful thinking, or delusional.
I wonder how many here making statements like this actually read the article. They never threw a "possible" line in there. They said,

"We were evaluating a UMD conversion program (http://kotaku.com/tag/umd-conversion-program/), but due to legal and technical reasons we will not be offering the program at this time," a Sony Computer Entertainment of America spokesman told Kotaku."

"We are looking into programs for owners who have previously purchased UMD titles and want to exchange them for digital versions," Sony Computer Entertainment's Brian Keltner told Kotaku at the time. "It's something we are still hammering out the details. As soon as we have solid plans in place we will make an announcement."

If sales are not as good as they like, that would be more reason for them to work on the goodwill program. So even if its not ready for launch there's still a lot of motivation to try to make it available.

i recommend the OP be retitled... just like the kotaku article it's misleading.
That seems to have been the whole point of this thread, every time I come in I see the OP bitching about something related to the PSP. Like a few days ago when he bitched about the Minis not being online and such, not realizing why they made those decisions, which so many here had to point out to him. Even with the title change he still makes it sound like it's not planned at all. A proper title would be No UMD Program Ready for Launch. Kind of backwards for someone who just wants to hate on something to host the thread for it.

For these fun little fail comparisons, if anything I'd compare it to the Sega Nomad, which was also made to play already released games. Nomad never released in EU or AU, like how some retailers have banned the Go there. Nomad allowed you to connect a controller like the Go does. As well as hook it up to the TV. It was not fully compatible with the Genesis's add ons without additonal accessories, like Go.

[Scorch]

No UMD program, no buy.

[Gothic Walrus]

I wonder how many here making statements like this actually read the article. They never threw a "possible" line in there.

YOU said that.

They said no umd program in place at this time due to legal and technical reasons, that means it's still possible. That should be reflected in the OP instead of acting like its 100% never possible.

:wall:

Like I already said, I'm firmly convinced that even if the goodwill program does happen down the line, it won't be enough to save the system. The lack of the goodwill program at launch will do a lot of damage to the system's reputation, especially since Sony waited so long to make the announcement that it wouldn't be in place. I can only imagine how many preorders Sony lost tonight, once the announcement began circulating. Even if the program does eventually happen, they, the gaming press, and everybody posting on forums about it have all generated a lot of negative publicity for the device tonight.

For these fun little fail comparisons, if anything I'd compare it to the Sega Nomad, which was also made to play already released games. Nomad never released in EU or AU, like how some retailers have banned the Go there. Nomad allowed you to connect a controller like the Go does. As well as hook it up to the TV. It was not fully compatible with the Genesis's add ons without additonal accessories, like Go.

First problem with that comparison: the Nomad actually COULD play previously released games. Second problem: nobody's "banned" the PSPgo, unless "banned" now means "decided not to sell." Third problem: most people wouldn't even think of trying to connect a Sega CD, 32X, Activator, or most of the accessories for the console to a portable Nomad, but it wouldn't be unreasonable to think that headsets and component cables that work with the PSP 3000 would work with the PSPgo.

For all of its faults, the Sega Nomad still has its fans today. I doubt that's going to be the case for the PSPgo.

Hell, I have doubts that the PSPgo will be able to access its games fifteen years from now. I will admit that I don't know what kind of DRM Sony plans on using with the PSPgo, but I know that there has to be something in place to make the PSPgo something more than a $250 piracy machine. DRM has screwed so many people over in so many ways that I don't trust it by default now. If it's for a $5 title on Steam or Xbox Live, I'll suck it up and deal with it; if it's for a full-priced handheld title that cost $30 or $40, I would definitely think twice.

No UMD program, no buy.

Since you work at Game Crazy, I figure it can't hurt to ask: any information on how the PSPgo has been received at your store, either by the employees or the customers?

[RelentlessRolento]

lol damn people took my comment too seriously... >_<

[Reichan]

No UMD? I guess PSP GO is not interesting anymore, no wonder theres lots of negative feedback vs this piece of tech. anyway having HB and CFW available for the GO will do and will make many people want to buy pSP go!

[h3llbring3r]

That seems to have been the whole point of this thread, every time I come in I see the OP bitching about something related to the PSP. Like a few days ago when he bitched about the Minis not being online and such, not realizing why they made those decisions, which so many here had to point out to him. Even with the title change he still makes it sound like it's not planned at all. A proper title would be No UMD Program Ready for Launch. Kind of backwards for someone who just wants to hate on something to host the thread for it.
.


It was with great excitement that I started this thread as the first credible reports of the PSPgo began to emerge. Many of us wanted this device to succeed to improve the platform and for our own enjoyment as consumers.

I started this thread because I was following the early devlopments rumors closely and I was very excited that Sony might be putting out a device to correct many of the mistakes made with the first 3 iterations of the PSP. Instead the past mistakes haven't been addressed, in fact they are compounded with new & more serious ones.

I've posted plenty of positive stuff on the go and was very excited about the device at the announcement.

Most recently- I'll point to the positive hardware review from the tele and news about the legacy peripheral adapter for 1k-3k psp add-ons.

Unlike you, I post positive and negative criticisms about the go, isn't that what we are supposed to discussing products as consumers.

It's not my fault the news keeps getting worse and worse. It is not my fault you are in complete awe of all decisions as,collectively, the majority of us have found the moronic. I've read all the responses to mine the other's criticisms.

The merits of each point speak for themselves-

The development of the go is blazing a path that is anti-consumer, anti-innovation, pro-developer, short sighted and ignoring their existing buying base's desires and market demand- forsaking all to maximize immediate profitability.

It's become pretty clear who will defend this device at all cost and in the face of serious and legitimate criticisms.

I think you need to go back and read your post as most of your responses to the legitimate criticisms are rationalizations.

Furthermore, most (if not all) of your responses I've read are not thorough justifications addressing the issues of the decisions the majority of us have found ill-conceived as consumers. We are not in a Sony stockholders assessing why these decisions are good for Sony, we are product consumers analyzing the products merits and flaws.

Criticizing ≠ bitching, I take offense at that- but comments as such are a pretty good bench mark to ferret out the fanboys.

[Chibi_Kaji]

Just as I thought the US isn't getting that PSPgo rewards thing (http://www.destructoid.com/guess-what-pspgo-rewards-scheme-is-not-for-americans-149880.phtml?no_cache=1&comment_saved=1#comment-1467425).

Edit: I'm just going to cancel my pre-order... It's just impossible to defend this anymore. Japan and Europe gets some kind of nice things and the US... just gets asked to bend over.

[Gothic Walrus]

lol damn people took my comment too seriously... >_<

I should've known better, but I got caught up in trying to convince J7 that his argument was stupid. :lol:

Criticizing ≠ bitching, I take offense at that- but comments as such are a pretty good bench mark to ferret out the fanboys.

"Fanboy" is a pretty accurate assessment; if you look at his recent posting history, I can show you some real doozies of posts he's written about how much the Wii sucks. ;)

Just as I thought the US isn't getting that PSPgo rewards thing (http://www.destructoid.com/guess-what-pspgo-rewards-scheme-is-not-for-americans-149880.phtml?no_cache=1&comment_saved=1#comment-1467425).

Edit: I'm just going to cancel my pre-order... It's just impossible to defend this anymore. Japan and Europe gets some kind of nice things and the US... just gets asked to bend over.

Just like I said, the news is making preorders vanish in a puff of smoke. Good job, Sony!

Do we have an explanation yet as to why other countries get the reward program but America doesn't? Given that Sony was only offering first-party titles for it anyway, I can't imagine it's a legal issue in this case. Did it just come down to money?

[h3llbring3r]

Okay this really confuses me:
"We have a dual platform strategy," -Sony SpokespersonI thought the no 2nd analog stick, absence of a touch screen, and the same graphics standards were all done because the go was the same platform- just one that forgo-ed the physical media of the UMD. Crow- eat it.

Now it seems like they are circling the wagons. One the plus side, this makes me think the push for a UMD trade-in may get harder on Sony's side towards the publishers.

[Ryuukishi]

Sony should never have said anything about this "good will program" in the first place. I mean, there is no plausible way they could have taken care of existing UMD owners without completely opening the floodgates to piracy. Just no way. Still, they somehow thought it would be a good idea to make promises they must have known they couldn't realistically keep.

Even the "three free games" thing for Europe comes off as a bit of a slap in the face to someone like me who owns dozens of UMD games. Wow, my awesome free gift is that I get to continue playing three whole games from my collection? It's ridiculous.

[Chibi_Kaji]

Sony should never have said anything about this "good will program" in the first place. I mean, there is no plausible way they could have taken care of existing UMD owners without completely opening the floodgates to piracy. Just no way. Still, they somehow thought it would be a good idea to make promises they must have known they couldn't realistically keep.
No, they would have needed to address the issue anyway. But they could have handled it much better then they did.

[darkwingduck13]

The development of the go is blazing a path that is anti-consumer, anti-innovation, pro-developer, short sighted and ignoring their existing buying base's desires and market demand- forsaking all to maximize immediate profitability.


QFT. I've been saying this all along, and it's good to finally see Sony proving me right. The whole thing with the Go has always just been a ploy to eliminate the used game market. I said it in the beginning and I'm saying it now. The track record of "reduced prices" for digital distribution on the PSP has been spotty at best, and with this, it's become pretty clear what Sony thinks of the consumers who've supported the platform all along.

I've been ROFLing ever since I read the news. :D

[J7.]

YOU said that.
Yes I said it's still possible. That's a lot different from you acting like Sony is literally saying, hey its still possible, but we're just saying it is still possible. That's a helluva lot different than them saying they're still working on the details. You took my words and made them Sony's.


Like I already said, I'm firmly convinced that even if the goodwill program does happen down the line, it won't be enough to save the system. The lack of the goodwill program at launch will do a lot of damage to the system's reputation, especially since Sony waited so long to make the announcement that it wouldn't be in place. I can only imagine how many preorders Sony lost tonight, once the announcement began circulating. Even if the program does eventually happen, they, the gaming press, and everybody posting on forums about it have all generated a lot of negative publicity for the device tonight.
No shit. I didn't disagree with that. I don't think the system is dead though. Sure the launch won't be good in the US, but they can make changes. I'm sure we'll see a price drop fast, early next year.


First problem with that comparison: the Nomad actually COULD play previously released games. Second problem: nobody's "banned" the PSPgo, unless "banned" now means "decided not to sell." Third problem: most people wouldn't even think of trying to connect a Sega CD, 32X, Activator, or most of the accessories for the console to a portable Nomad, but it wouldn't be unreasonable to think that headsets and component cables that work with the PSP 3000 would work with the PSPgo.

For all of its faults, the Sega Nomad still has its fans today. I doubt that's going to be the case for the PSPgo.

Hell, I have doubts that the PSPgo will be able to access its games fifteen years from now. I will admit that I don't know what kind of DRM Sony plans on using with the PSPgo, but I know that there has to be something in place to make the PSPgo something more than a $250 piracy machine. DRM has screwed so many people over in so many ways that I don't trust it by default now. If it's for a $5 title on Steam or Xbox Live, I'll suck it up and deal with it; if it's for a full-priced handheld title that cost $30 or $40, I would definitely think twice.
Blah blah blah. The other comparisons made with other systems had just as many technicalities. No one tried to rip them apart because it was in fun... Anyways PSP Go can play previously released games, you just have to download them. Yes banned means decided they won't carry it, they banned it from their shop so to speak...

People playing Nomad on their TV at home or with another person certainly might hook up the other systems to it. Probably close to the same amount who would hook up the camera to Go. But that wasn't the point anyways :roll:. The point was that both can be hooked up to peripherals with an additional accessory... There's some people that do like the Go, despite what you think, especially those yet to own a PSP.

[J7.]

I've posted plenty of positive stuff on the go and was very excited about the device at the announcement.

Most recently- I'll point to the positive hardware review from the tele and news about the legacy peripheral adapter for 1k-3k psp add-ons.

Unlike you, I post positive and negative criticisms about the go, isn't that what we are supposed to discussing products as consumers.

It's not my fault the news keeps getting worse and worse. It is not my fault you are in complete awe of all decisions as,collectively, the majority of us have found the moronic. I've read all the responses to mine the other's criticisms.

The merits of each point speak for themselves-

The development of the go is blazing a path that is anti-consumer, anti-innovation, pro-developer, short sighted and ignoring their existing buying base's desires and market demand- forsaking all to maximize immediate profitability.

It's become pretty clear who will defend this device at all cost and in the face of serious and legitimate criticisms.

I think you need to go back and read your post as most of your responses to the legitimate criticisms are rationalizations.

Furthermore, most (if not all) of your responses I've read are not thorough justifications addressing the issues of the decisions the majority of us have found ill-conceived as consumers. We are not in a Sony stockholders assessing why these decisions are good for Sony, we are product consumers analyzing the products merits and flaws.

Criticizing ≠ bitching, I take offense at that- but comments as such are a pretty good bench mark to ferret out the fanboys.
Really. I distinctly remember you bitching about how it doesn't have a 2nd analog when they made the announcement and you made this thread.

I do post + and -. But I find myself having to defend things when people make things out 10,000 times worse than they are or bitch about something they don't know much about. Sure seems like bitching when you criticize the hell out of anything remotely negative to you personally.

I've said that the price sucks, having no UMD program ready for launch sucks, the digital download prices are bad, etc. However, I can see why all of those things have occurred. I look at both sides. I just don't see something I don't like personally and then make that out to be the defacto standard opinion. A few others have posted how they can see why Sony made some of those negative decisions because they look at what Sony had to do. But you know what, everyone who just wants to criticize doesn't appear to pay any attention to those rational posts.

For example, the price has to be higher because they need to give retailers reason to carry the Go. Since retailers will see less games sold, they need to make money on selling the Go. See past comments by people for why these types of decisions had to be made. It's not fully for Sony's profits or for other reasons that they made the decisions they did, it's some of both, and you seem to only want to focus on one side.

Okay this really confuses me:
I thought the no 2nd analog stick, absence of a touch screen, and the same graphics standards were all done because the go was the same platform- just one that forgo-ed the physical media of the UMD. Crow- eat it.

Now it seems like they are circling the wagons. One the plus side, this makes me think the push for a UMD trade-in may get harder on Sony's side towards the publishers.
Is it really that far over your head? Dual platform strategy means 2 platforms, one high end, more expensive, that appeals to tech lovers & has digital games, the other lower end, less expensive, appeals to the common man and has umd games. Oh wait, you're finding something in nothing by trying to change the meaning of what they meant!


"Fanboy" is a pretty accurate assessment; if you look at his recent posting history, I can show you some real doozies of posts he's written about how much the Wii sucks. ;)
Ya and I recall you defending it as much as you can.

[h3llbring3r]

Really. I distinctly remember you bitching about how it doesn't have a 2nd analog when they made the announcement and you made this thread.

Who didn't ?


I do post + and -. But I find myself having to defend things when people make things out 10,000 times worse than they are or bitch about something they don't know much about. Sure seems like bitching when you criticize the hell out of anything remotely negative to you personally.
As a consumer, not personally. I called the price before the announcement, it was exactly what I expected. Any others . . .


I've said that the price sucks, having no UMD program ready for launch sucks, the digital download prices are bad, etc. However, I can see why all of those things have occurred. I look at both sides. I just don't see something I don't like personally and then make that out to be the defacto standard opinion. A few others have posted how they can see why Sony made some of those negative decisions because they look at what Sony had to do. But you know what, everyone who just wants to criticize doesn't appear to pay any attention to those rational posts.
Rationalizing ≠ rational. You sir, are miles from rational about this product and people posting legitimate criticisms of it's shortcomings.


For example, the price has to be higher because they need to give retailers reason to carry the Go. Since retailers will see less games sold, they need to make money on selling the Go.
When did I say otherwise?


See past comments by people for why these types of decisions had to be made. It's not fully for Sony's profits or for other reasons that they made the decisions they did, it's some of both, and you seem to only want to focus on one side.

Again . . . we are not approaching this from the perspective of Sony stockholders. What is entirely to their benefit and against my interests is relevant to the buyer how exactly? It's not at all that's how.

As I said pro-Sony / pro-publisher / anti-consumer. I never said it was all for Sony's benefit alone.


Is it really that far over your head? Dual platform strategy means 2 platforms, one high end, more expensive, that appeals to tech lovers & has digital games, the other lower end, less expensive, appeals to the common man and has umd games. Oh wait, you're finding something in nothing by trying to change the meaning of what they meant!
What?
Two price points ≠ different platforms!
The 120gb and 250 slims are the same platform as were the original 20's and 60's despite price and feature differences- just as Arcade and Elite are not different platforms.


As stated before it was not me saying they were the same platform, that was from those defending the failure to update features, correct the inherent flaws and improve controls. The rationale was it is the same platform as the PSP, so adding 2nd nub, touch screen . . .etc. wasn't in line with game design for the other PSPs in the same platform.

[J7.]

Sony should never have said anything about this "good will program" in the first place. I mean, there is no plausible way they could have taken care of existing UMD owners without completely opening the floodgates to piracy. Just no way. Still, they somehow thought it would be a good idea to make promises they must have known they couldn't realistically keep.

Even the "three free games" thing for Europe comes off as a bit of a slap in the face to someone like me who owns dozens of UMD games. Wow, my awesome free gift is that I get to continue playing three whole games from my collection? It's ridiculous.
I think it's any of these 17 games, whether you own them or not, just have a umd in the drive.

What you'll be able to do is download 3 games from a selection of 17; these can either be games from your current UMD collection or 3 new titles," Sony explains. The selections are:

Killzone Liberation
Medievil
Wipeout Pure
Buzz Brain Bender
Buzz Master Quiz
SOCOM U.S. Navy SEALs: Fireteam Bravo
Ratchet & Clank: Size Matters
Everybody's Golf
Resistance: Retribution
Syphon Filter Dark Mirror
Lemmings
LocoRoco
Patapon
Syphon Filter: Logan's Shadow
Echochrome
Pursuit Force: Extreme Justice
Daxter

[J7.]

Who didn't ?
Many did, many did not. You made the biggest stink I've seen out of anybody anywhere. And it's stupid to complain for another analog stick when those without it would not have one on the regular PSP, especially for online play and for the design process.


As a consumer, not personally. I called the price before the announcement, it was exactly what I expected. Any others . . .
The Minis, the analog stick, the umd program, the design of the hardware, probably others I forgot or don't know about.

Rationalizing ≠ ration. You sir are miles from rational about this product.
Yes its more rational to just complain incessantly than to try to understand why choices had to be made, despite their consequences...

When did I say otherwise?
You've complained about the price without taking that into account...

Again . . . we are not Sony stockholders.

As I said pro-Sony pro-publisher anti-consumer. I never said it was all for Sony's benefit alone.
You certainly make it out to seem that way. And yes, because getting more games made from publishers for a device that was starting to lose development support, does not help consumers.

The way you post, it is clear that you love each chance you get to post something completely negative about the Go.

[darkwingduck13]

I also find it hilarious that even with the "three free games" program, they're some of the oldest titles on the system. What, they couldn't front for Everybody's Golf 2, LocoRoco 2, Patapon 2, etc? :P

[h3llbring3r]

And it's stupid to complain for another analog stick when those without it would not have one on the regular PSP, especially for online play and for the design process.
But it's a different PLATFORM PER- YOU. That was my point, and if you read any sites other than this one the general consensus was it was a moronic decision in that regard.



You've complained about the price without taking that into account...
The Minis, the analog stick, the umd program, the design of the hardware, probably others I forgot or don't know about.
Again, we were talking about me not posting + and -, I think we explored all in that regard. Moot. We talked about it all.


And yes, because getting more games made from publishers for a device that was starting to lose development support, does not help consumers.
That's picking your bread over your butter at the expense of the consumer. If the device meets demand and you support it as a first party publisher any lost publishers and devs will come back to a then successful platform. You don't crap on the buyer to get publishers to make games on a platform no one wants. Cutting off your nose to spite your face is bad business.


The way you post, it is clear that you love each chance you get to post something completely negative about the Go.
Please . . . you bend over backwards to defend the PSPgo and have conceded nothing but the price as an issue. Which is the only point that I can see justified as a consumer.

[LinkinPrime]

I'm getting the PSP Go with the intention of it being a media player 1st, gaming platform 2nd. I may buy a couple games on it, but I mainly want it as a portable video player that supports .divx/.avi.

That and the fact that I just bought it for $168 from that Dell deal http://www.cheapassgamer.com/forums/images/icons/icon14.gif

[h3llbring3r]

I just bought it for $168 from that Dell deal http://www.cheapassgamer.com/forums/images/icons/icon14.gif
A fantastic price, especially if you don't already own a PSP.

[LinkinPrime]

A fantastic price, especially if you don't already own a PSP.

I don't. I want to get a few games on it for sure though, PowerStone Collection, Mega Man Powered Up, the Jak & Dexter, and Ratchet & Clank games for sure.

I hope all those are up on PSN or will shortly be up.

[chakan]

The PSP is two platforms in a sense. One platform we're not allowed to talk about here. That is why I personally will have two PSPs, a 1000, and a Go.

[LinkinPrime]

The Go will eventually go there too...I hope.

[h3llbring3r]

The PSP is two platforms in a sense. One platform we're not allowed to talk about here. That is why I personally will have two PSPs, a 1000, and a Go.
:lol:
How long do think it will take them to make it a single platform again with custom software?

[chakan]

Probably not long, but I'll also have my 1000 for UMDs

[opportunity777]

I'm just waiting for it to be released for about three to six months and check the final verdict. So far, my original perception of the system and Sony was pretty much spot on.

I'm hoping for the price on the 3000s to continue to fall because I need to replace my last one that was stolen.

[Chibi_Kaji]

I don't. I want to get a few games on it for sure though, PowerStone Collection, Mega Man Powered Up, the Jak & Dexter, and Ratchet & Clank games for sure.

I hope all those are up on PSN or will shortly be up.
I know Mega Man Powered Up and PowerStone Collection are up on PSN.

[LinkinPrime]

Sweet! Thank you.

[paddlefoot]

What I don't get is the price. For years Sony, Sega, Microsoft, and Nintendo have sold there new systems at cost or at a loss. Why does Sony decide to get cute when they develop a system completely skewed in their favor?

I feel like this system should cost as much as a DSlite.


I really wanted one of these. Would have even traded in a lot of my physical UMD discs if that is what it took.

[bigl523]

I never really thought about it but for $50 more you can get a PS3. Something's not right with that.

[Ecofreak]

Everyone should remember that Sony never intended PSP Go for core gamers. They're trying to emulate the success of the iPhone/iTouch, hence focusing on making the system as portable as possible to more competently compete for pocket space. Kids now a days, and thus consumers of the future who will ultimately be replacing us, are much more accepting of digital downloads as is evident by the iPod's success.

The lack of UMD goodwill program is indeed a blow but understandable when most people would simply have gone to Gamestop and bought a bunch of used games on the cheap. What does Sony get in return? Nothing, except for a bigger bill due to bandwidth utilization costs. That's what I certainly would have done and I'm sure almost everyone else who doesn't have a PSP as well (let's be honest, we're all Cheap Asses).

And for everyone who says, "The PSP Go will fail" I recommend you consider the following:
1) The $250 price tag has been stated publicly by Sony executives as the price paid by early adapters. They need to make back money for the greater Playstation division and this is one way.
2) The PSP Go costs less than the PSP Phat to make (lack of UMD drive, smaller form factor, etc). Thus the PSP Go will obviously be dropping in price, and perhaps even faster than people expect as Sony makes more money off the sales of software than hardware.
3) What happens if the PSP Go costs $100 but the PSP Phat stays at $150? How will sales shake out then?

The PSP Go will do just fine and has a strong chance of being a moderate/high market success if the PSN store has games that people genuinely love. The question is, will consumers be willing to carry a cell phone AND a PSP Go at the same time? That may ultimately be the biggest limiting factor and not this rancorous debate about the UMD Goodwill Program.

[h3llbring3r]

What I don't get is the price. For years Sony, Sega, Microsoft, and Nintendo have sold there new systems at cost or at a loss. Why does Sony decide to get cute when they develop a system completely skewed in their favor?

I feel like this system should cost as much as a DSlite.


I really wanted one of these. Would have even traded in a lot of my physical UMD discs if that is what it took.

They are following some new industry profit models and trends with the Wii, DSi, Touch/iPhone and trying to apply them to the PSP platform. Models where the sale of the device itself is profitable or break even. Which explains the high price. This affords the company the ability to earn a lower margin for the software sold. Which in the on the non-PSP platforms affords the lowering of the cost for software and increasing the number of titles the buyer can with the same dollar.

Where Sony has deviated from that model is in the pricing* of the digitally distributed software and support of legacy media on the same platform (note: *this is definitely subject to change and expected to).

With the DSi, Nintendo elected to remove some of its older legacy media abilities but (most importantly) kept it's most recent proprietary format that is specific to this platform's series (the DS cart.). In this venue Sony opted to completely drop it's physical media- leaving current device users out in the cold. This is serious deviation from that model and a sore point for current owners considering buying the newer, sleeker, and more portable iteration.

Whereas, the Touch/iPhone platforms have no legacy media formats to support so that is a non-issue for them. However, the entirety of library will be digitally distributed as will be for the PSPgo. (Making the abandoning of the physical media a "have your cake and eat it too" move at the expense of the consumer & existing device user, in the opinion of some gamers)

So in that regard you have a half-step in between the two models that clearly doesn't benefit the consumer and affects the retailer as we can explore below:

Another key difference is retailer support. It is surmised that Apple supports its retailers by facilitating a more profitable store card (as evidenced by the frequency of the buy 2 get 1 free sales on iTunes cards at big box stores namely Best Buy, walmart . . etc. and the common $30 in iTunes $ GC's that are sold for $20 at membership clubs like costco, sams, BJs). From that one can speculate that the profit on a full priced apple store card is at least in the 33% range.

The PSN store already has retail cards, but they are presumably priced more inline with Live Points and the Wii's cards where the profit margin for the retailer is considerably less. So Sony is hobbled to an extent in how it can help profit those retailers in sales with a solely digitally distributed platform. In that regard Apple succeeds to continue profiting the retailer despite the entirely DD software sales (which is moot for the DSi since its existing physical media is still supported on the newest DD-friendly device on the same platform).

So it becomes a counter-intuitive move for the retailer in terms of software/media sales to support said device with sales. This may explain the $250 US price-point ($300 & $350 equivalent in ¥ and £ respectively). It is speculated that this price point may provide the retailer with an even greater profit margin than the competitors (namely the DSi & apple) and further justifying their continued sales of the new device.

Ergo, despite getting cut out of the software sales side of the profits their is still an incentive for sale. This we wont know as a fact until a tear down is done and a component cost is estimated.

Unfortunately, the aforementioned "even higher than the others" pricing strategy creates a significant hurdle in getting the device in the hands of anyone other than bleeding edge early adopters and tea-totaling Sony brand fans.

In any event a small number retail chains in other countries are electing not to carry the device since they are being effectively & completely cut out of their piece of the software profits and potentially cut out the ability to resell used games further down the road; but (and this is a very important but), this will only come to fruition if this new exclusively DD iteration of the platform were to ever eclipse the original that still utilizes the physical media.

Therefore, in theory it benefits Sony (and in the immediate short term the retailers) to price the PSPgo high enough and make enough concessions in design that the device never does eclipse the ones that support physical media to pacify the retailers.

Now, combine that intentionally flawed & intentionally overpriced by design fact with unsubstantiated rumors of yet another device that continues support the physical media (enter the rumored PSP 4000) that may or may not ever exist and retailers hopefully remain contented enough to sell the device that could lead to their demise. In it's totality making the device only desirable to a select few and neglecting the desires and interest of both the rest of the consumers and retailers the same time. A veritable rope-a-dope, playing both the consumers and retailers.

The device and its new sales model becomes a giant convoluted mess of compromises, intentional half-efforts & flaws, and rumors "by design" in an effort to slowly migrate to a different business model, without alienating any of the key players. In the end both the consumers and the retailers clearly stand the most to lose where- Sony and the developers/publishers stand the most to gain.

So, if you are like me and wanted a smaller sleeker device you have to accept the flaws and compromise your right to ever own your media, which I think the majority of the people are not willing to do. Hopefully all of this will change, but that depends on the retailers and consumers. At the end of the day, all of this is why for those of us who were initially very enthusiastic at the proposition of the go are becoming more and more disgusted with the direction Sony is taking.

This is entirely my take on it-

TMK might have another, and I am sure J7 will chime in with something hardly worth reading.

[starmask2k3]

i just wish it was a Bundle for the price

[Tux.Bobble]

So, if you are like me and wanted a smaller sleeker device you have to accept the flaws and compromise your right to ever own your media, which I think the majority of the people are not willing to do. Hopefully all of this will change, but that depends on the retailers and consumers. At the end of the day, all of this is why for those of us who were initially very enthusiastic at the proposition of the go are becoming more and more disgusted with the direction Sony is taking.

I really agree with you on this point. The rest is somewhat accurate, but I don't feel like getting into another waste-of-time long-winded discussion (not meant as offense, it's just too much effort to waste on this) so I won't comment much there.

Ultimately there are two groups people considering the PSP Go fit into. You either own a PSP already, or you do not own a PSP already. (also generally meaning you own UMDs, or do not own UMDs) It seems like that's the distinction that needs to be made right now.

I personally fall into the latter category. I do not own a PSP, and I do not own any UMDs. I would have bought a PSP 2 years ago (but not at launch) if it matched the portability of the Go, regardless of UMD/non-UMD plans. And I am still buying the Go, for the record, because of my Amazon $75 off deal the other month.

I realize that I am "settling" for the Go in the sense that I wish I were able to get UMDs and have them converted somehow to digital vouchers. I wish I could resell used games. But right now, I have to face the facts that, I don't have any UMDs. I can't buy used UMDs from the store for cheap, and still play them. Shame, but I can live with it if I HAVE to. (which I do)

The one problem I have is that people keep saying "just get a 3000". A 3000 does not interest me at all due to its size. It's unfortunate, but it's true. Size is very important to PORTABLE gaming, in my opinion. In fact, after quality of games, it's the MOST important, provided other stats are competitive. (if my battery lasts 8 minutes, I doubt I'm playing the console anyway!!!) So while I admit, for some people "just get a 3000" works fine. But for some, like myself, who have been wanting a truly PORTABLE system, the Go is perfect, physically. I just get annoyed when people inaccurately state "it's a 3000, but without UMD", because it's not. I'll stop ranting there, because I think I've gotten my point across. There is no PSP I would even CONSIDER buying, except the Go. So it's a Go or no Go, for me. It's not a Go vs. a 3000 vs. a DS vs. an iPhone. None of those other systems are for me. (3000 is not the right size. DS is good, but not for me. iPhone sucks for gaming, in my opinion)

[CrimsonPaw]

The fact that UMD's aren't able to be ported does not bode well for this system. Yeah, it's smaller and there is no physical media to worry about but the fact remains that at that price point there are better options out there. I'm not saying that this isn't going to sell any units, but the casual audience has been ported to the DS or iPod touch and the core gamers are not going to jump on board since they'll need to repurchase their games.

Not sure why Sony doesn't just allow people to send in their UMD's to get a download code or associate the download to your PSN account. that way there is proof that you own the media and it can't be redistributed. Regardless, my PSP 1000 is still running strong so there's no reason to upgrade.

[Tux.Bobble]

The fact that UMD's aren't able to be ported does not bode well for this system. Yeah, it's smaller and there is no physical media to worry about but the fact remains that at that price point there are better options out there. I'm not saying that this isn't going to sell any units, but the casual audience has been ported to the DS or iPod touch and the core gamers are not going to jump on board since they'll need to repurchase their games.

Not sure why Sony doesn't just allow people to send in their UMD's to get a download code or associate the download to your PSN account. that way there is proof that you own the media and it can't be redistributed. Regardless, my PSP 1000 is still running strong so there's no reason to upgrade.

Well, there are legal reasons why distribution via a certain means occurs the way it does. Sometimes it's pretty arbitrary, other times it's not, but it still exists. I personally believe it SHOULDN'T be an issue, but I do understand that it is.

And as for the casual vs. hardcore audience...you have to consider other things too. I consider myself a hardcore gamer. However, up until October 1st (release-date deivery) I didn't own a portable gaming system AT ALL. I wouldn't even consider the DS/iPhone for reasons I've mentioned before (again, not bashing DS, just not for me) and until now I haven't even considered the PSP. So there's something to be said for the hardcore market that wasn't interested in portables before. The Go is a "sexy" device, in a sense, and when the price drops might convince more people like myself to jump on board. (Though I was already on board with PSP, except in physical form, which is why the Go works for me)

So there's definitely something to be said for hardcore gamers who hadn't/haven't adopted a portable gaming system as of now. I wanted a portable PSP, not a brick-sized PSP. So the hardcore market that follows the same thought process I do, it still might garner a good following...just by a very select audience. Only time will tell I suppose...

And you're definitely right. There's no reason to "upgrade", if you have an older model PSP. Nothing that revolutionary or new. It's really focused on people who don't own PSP/UMDs already, I suppose hence Sony's unwillingness to work harder bridging the gap for the UMD-to-voucher program...

[Halo05]

Not sure why Sony doesn't just allow people to send in their UMD's to get a download code or associate the download to your PSN account. that way there is proof that you own the media and it can't be redistributed.

I don't understand it either. A couple times it has been mentioned that if they did the UMD trade/swap program it would result in massive piracy but I don't see how that would happen.

Obviously, the above method would not work for every game but for first or second party stuff, there's no reason that Sony can't generate (for example), a million download codes for Dexter, Rachet and Clank, or Patapon.

Anyhow, I'm about ready to sit back and see what happens. I was predicting dismal sales but some of the Gamefaqs kids are really fucking excited about this so who knows?

[h3llbring3r]

The one problem I have is that people keep saying "just get a 3000". A 3000 does not interest me at all due to its size. It's unfortunate, but it's true. Size is very important to PORTABLE gaming, in my opinion. In fact, after quality of games, it's the MOST important, provided other stats are competitive. (if my battery lasts 8 minutes, I doubt I'm playing the console anyway!!!) So while I admit, for some people "just get a 3000" works fine. But for some, like myself, who have been wanting a truly PORTABLE system, the Go is perfect, physically. I just get annoyed when people inaccurately state "it's a 3000, but without UMD", because it's not. I'll stop ranting there, because I think I've gotten my point across. There is no PSP I would even CONSIDER buying, except the Go. So it's a Go or no Go, for me. It's not a Go vs. a 3000 vs. a DS vs. an iPhone. None of those other systems are for me. (3000 is not the right size. DS is good, but not for me. iPhone sucks for gaming, in my opinion)

Very good point about the 3k. I own a 2k and because of its size ended up lending it long term to a family member. However, there are plenty of games that I already own and would like to own on UMD- and for now, the PSPgo ignores everyone in that boat. I also don't like the fact that if I buy a full price digitally distributed game and find no re-playability in it then I am stuck with it; with no recourse or ability to resell it to mitigate its cost. A rent with option to buy program would solve this and it's been bantered and rumored, but so have a lot of other things; and in the majority of the cases with these issues when it would benefit the consumer at the expense of the publisher it's a no go.

[FroMann]

If they expect to sell the Go! at $250 They need to include a 50 dollar PSN card or some Sony exclusive games like Gran Turismo. Which is getting a 3000 bundle.

[CoffeeEdge]

The PSP Go's price makes absolutely no sense, compared to the regular PSP.

They shrank the screen by ~12%, eliminated all of the complex moving parts, and only added 16GB of flash memory (which probably costs well under $10 at industrial prices) and a Bluetooth chip (again, costs a couple bucks, industrial), and somehow, this justifies a $80, or nearly 50% price increase over the 3000?

Bullshit.

I also like how they made sure to not mention the eensy-weensy little detail of the UMD conversion program being nixed, until about a week before launch.

The Go just quantitatively makes no sense whatsoever.

What I don't get is the price. For years Sony, Sega, Microsoft, and Nintendo have sold there new systems at cost or at a loss.
Nintendo makes a profit on Wii hardware.

[Malik112099]

Sony's biggest mistake with the PSP Go is thAt it isn't a redesigned PSP 2.

[SynGamer]

Sony's biggest mistake with the PSP Go is thAt it isn't a redesigned PSP 2.

Um, bringing out the PSP2 now when the PS3 is just starting to finally take off would be financial suicide. Give it a couple of years and I think we'll see the PSP2 but for now, the PSP Go is a great way to test DD's on the PSN. It lets Sony iron out some kinks without feeling rushed.

[Reichan]

Well i really agree w/ Malik's statements, i guess they just made an improvement for PSP2k rather than Removing and Adding craps in the gadget, and i do believe that the PSP GO is dying even its not yet released in the market.

[Ecofreak]

Get ready for a big Download Dump from Sony when the PSP Go launches.

From Destructoid.com (http://www.destructoid.com/16-000-pieces-of-dlc-will-launch-with-the-pspgo-150119.phtml)

We might not be getting any free games for the PSPgo in North America, but Sony's making sure there will be plenty of stuff to spend our money on. It's been revealed that 16,000 pieces of DLC will be available for the PSP on October 1. That's a lot, by the way.

The content includes 225 downloadable games (PSP titles, PSN exclusives, UMD legacy titles and Minis), 2,300 movies and 13,300 television episodes. In addition, game cards will hit retailers, allowing customers to make in-store purchases and then download the titles when they get home. Ironically, you could spend trade-in money on those cards, thus quasi-beating the objective of a digital platform. I'm a fan of that.

A number of big-name PSP titles will hit the PlayStation Store on October 1, including God of War: Chains of Olympus, Gran Turismo and SoulCalibur: Broken Destiny.

I'll give Sony credit where it's due -- that's a lot of content, and it's nice to see Sony giving more support to the PSP on one day than it's given in the past five years. Still, I wonder how much money people are willing to spend after already dropping $250 on a handheld console.

235 downloadable games is great. As for the other 98.5% of the alleged 16,000 pieces, I wonder how much of it was already available on PSN and Sony is just throwing a "ZOMG BIG NUMBER" number out there for media attention.

I'm more curious, however, how much Sony is going to cost the UMD Legacy games. If they're full retail price then they'll be absolute hell to pay! HELL I TELL YOU!!!

[FriskyTanuki]

It'll be retail for new stuff and older stuff is up to the publisher, like Manhunt 2 for $30. :lol: I wonder if the games number includes any of the stuff that's already up there.

[blackjaw]

I'm definitely down with buying some PSone games and will check out some PSP legacy if the price is right (which it probably wont be). Their 16,000 pieces of downloadable content with 13,300 of them being crappy TV episodes is a joke. Isn't that what hulu and DVR's are for?

[DQT]

Um, bringing out the PSP2 now when the PS3 is just starting to finally take off would be financial suicide. Give it a couple of years and I think we'll see the PSP2 but for now, the PSP Go is a great way to test DD's on the PSN. It lets Sony iron out some kinks without feeling rushed.

I mean this in the least offensive way possible, but I don't see how releasing a console with less functionality than it's previous model is testing DD. All PSPs can download PSN games. I agree with Malik in that Sony should've sat on these ideas (sleek form factor, download only) until it was time for PSP2.

The best thing about this slapdash console release is that it in no way affects existing PSP users unlike the DSi, which has exclusive games I won't ever be able to play. I'm really trying not to trash the PSP Go, but I really feel Sony didn't adequately think this through.

[Ecofreak]

Isn't that what hulu and DVR's are for?

If you know of a solution that allows me to carry said services in my pocket, let me know. ;)

I mean this in the least offensive way possible, but I don't see how releasing a console with less functionality than it's previous model is testing DD. All PSPs can download PSN games. I agree with Malik in that Sony should've sat on these ideas (sleek form factor, download only) until it was time for PSP2.

The best thing about this slapdash console release is that it in no way affects existing PSP users unlike the DSi, which has exclusive games I won't ever be able to play. I'm really trying not to trash the PSP Go, but I really feel Sony didn't adequately think this through.

Waiting much longer would cause even more of the consumer base to think of the iPhone as the only true portable gaming device in town (along with the new Zune HD), and make it even harder to convince consumers that a PSP2 is relevant. Hence the reason why PSP Mini's exist -- to fill the market segment that is attracted to iPhone games but are interested in more depth.

It was a strategic move for market share and not the existing fan base. Whether or not the system will succeed will need time, but remember that Sony will have plenty of room to continue slashing prices as demand for the Go ebbs and wanes.

[Scorch]

damn it. I'm sure you guys already know, but I was checking the program that shows shit being transferred into our store, and we're getting a shitton of POSA cards (point of sale activation.. like point cards) for PSP Go titles. It's nice that they're doing this as you can still buy games with store credit and whatnot, but we're going to have to set up a new section in the store.. gah!

Off the top of my head, I saw POSA cards for Gran Turismo, God of War, Dissidia, Motorstorm, GTA VCS and LCS, Secret Agent Clank, and Soul Calibur.

[Tux.Bobble]

I'm actually in the middle of n argument with someone on Amazon's comments section. Guy's really pissing me off, so I need to post here instead haha. Long story short, he's calling people (notably myself) "feeble" for seeing the difference in size between the Go and the 3k. I could fit a Go in my pocket, but not a 3k. So, I'm pretty sure that's a difference. Might not matter to some people but to me, it's a big deal, and I'm "feeble" because of it, lol...

I do think that the major problem Sony is overlooking is that digital downloads are being tested here, as WELL as the PSP Go's "differences". So if the PSP Go does fail, I hope Sony doesn't decide that the digital download medium is at fault when the Go fails, considering the availability or lack of availability of the downloadable versions of UMD games. Not to mention leaving the current UMD owners out in the cold in terms of the transfer program. So I just hope they don't abandon (or slow) the PSP2/PS3/etc. downloadable content stream as a result of poor sales of the Go...

[Halo05]

So if the PSP Go does fail, I hope Sony doesn't decide that the digital download medium is at fault when the Go fails, considering the availability or lack of availability of the downloadable versions of UMD games.

Why would you not want digital distribution to get blamed for the fall of the PSP Go?

I welcome any development that can possibly help stave off the death of physical media.

[starmask2k3]

I'm definitely down with buying some PSone games and will check out some PSP legacy if the price is right (which it probably wont be). Their 16,000 pieces of downloadable content with 13,300 of them being crappy TV episodes is a joke. Isn't that what hulu and DVR's are for?

you mean 15,600 beening crappy

[starmask2k3]

the people that are talking stuff like its going to fail why the hell are you in this thread get a life because its not going to fail at all

[FriskyTanuki]

I mean this in the least offensive way possible, but I don't see how releasing a console with less functionality than it's previous model is testing DD. All PSPs can download PSN games. I agree with Malik in that Sony should've sat on these ideas (sleek form factor, download only) until it was time for PSP2.

The best thing about this slapdash console release is that it in no way affects existing PSP users unlike the DSi, which has exclusive games I won't ever be able to play. I'm really trying not to trash the PSP Go, but I really feel Sony didn't adequately think this through.
The PSP would've been dead by then if they didn't have the Go, as publishers would've left and there'd be no reason to have a PSP2. There would be no wealth of games coming this holiday season, there would be no PSP Minis, there would be none of this content coming to PSN, and there would be none of this renewed interest in the platform by publishers and developers to keep it going for much longer. It's purely a move to show the publishers that they have commitment to the platform's future.

[Snake2715]

its dead on arrival, watch and see.

[Ecofreak]

The PSP would've been dead by then if they didn't have the Go, as publishers would've left and there'd be no reason to have a PSP2. There would be no wealth of games coming this holiday season, there would be no PSP Minis, there would be none of this content coming to PSN, and there would be none of this renewed interest in the platform by publishers and developers to keep it going for much longer. It's purely a move to show the publishers that they have commitment to the platform's future.

Well said. :applause:

[RelentlessRolento]

this thing will sell well but secondary to the regular PSP... depending on how it sells in 6 months might determine if it'll become something sony wants to keep or forget.

[h3llbring3r]

this thing will sell well but secondary to the regular PSP... depending on how it sells in 6 months might determine if it'll become something sony wants to keep or forget.
Agrees.

I think the monthly numbers 6 months forward will be a good benchmark for the device's success. However, I think it will sell exceptionally well in Japan; where newer is better regardless.

[Tux.Bobble]

Why would you not want digital distribution to get blamed for the fall of the PSP Go?

I welcome any development that can possibly help stave off the death of physical media.


Sorry, I misspoke a little bit there. It's not that I want physical media to be gone altogether. But for me personally, I like having the downloadable version better than the physical media, with the exception of the box/manual. I have no need to have "perishable" media. I remember the days when my sisters used to borrow my CDs, and return them scratched to all hell. I don't have that problem anymore, and I have never had that problem with games, but I definitely welcome digital downloads.

With that said, I would much prefer a combined effort the way Sony is claiming to attempt here. I would prefer that digital-only AND physical media be available. As I said, I love the box/manual, but hate the discs themselves. I'm all for the box/manual for collection, including a digital download code. As for used games, I do participate in that market currently. And I would like to have that option for some games. But I've been dealing with Steam long enough to be ready for digital downloads, personally.

What my original comment was intended to express (though I poorly did so since my laptop battery was dying and I was rushing to finish up the post as quickly as possible) was that I do not wish for Sony to view the PSP Go and the digital download format to be inherently "linked". At least, not in the sense that, if the PSP Go fails, they will never try DD again. Because as they've set it up, the PSP Go has a LOT of reasons why it could fail beyond the simple fact of digital downloads. The method of implementation seems to be quite poor, whereas if it is done correctly, digital downloading can be very good. (again, see Steam for PCs)

Again, I don't wish for the end of physical media altogether. I just wish for enhanced opportunity/availability of downloading digital media, if that is my preference, which in some cases it is. For instance, there are some games I simply would not sell. They are rare, but they do exist. Final Fantasy Tactics, for instance, is a game I will keep as long as I have a way of playing it. (at least the PS3 does THAT BC, if not the PS2...) But I realize that for some, the disc itself is also collectible, so I understand why (and agree that) physical media should never disappear completely.

[Ecofreak]

damn it. I'm sure you guys already know, but I was checking the program that shows shit being transferred into our store, and we're getting a shitton of POSA cards (point of sale activation.. like point cards) for PSP Go titles. It's nice that they're doing this as you can still buy games with store credit and whatnot, but we're going to have to set up a new section in the store.. gah!

Off the top of my head, I saw POSA cards for Gran Turismo, God of War, Dissidia, Motorstorm, GTA VCS and LCS, Secret Agent Clank, and Soul Calibur.

I believe that's positive news, and will hopefully lend itself to DLC games going on sale like their physical counterparts. I wonder if they'll go on a clearance sale, as well. A bit suspect though as these POSA cards don't take up much shelf space.

This may also address my concerns of finding a way for DLC titles to get the pre-order goodies.

[FroMann]

this thing will sell well but secondary to the regular PSP... depending on how it sells in 6 months might determine if it'll become something sony wants to keep or forget.
The holiday season will determine that.

[Davestation]

Sony should have learned from their original PS3 pricing mistake. Having the PSP Go come out at a MSRP for $249.99 is ridiculous from a consumers point of view. If an average consumer walks into a electronics store and told the employee that he wants something for movies, music, and games for a good price the employee will probably direct the consumer to an ipod touch for a lower price. Apple has the brand influence and power to smash anything that tries to copy it whether it is Microsoft's Zune or even Sony's new PSP Go. Why would a consumer take a chance on a new DLC format with the PSP Go when Apple has dominated the market on portable devices since the start of the decade? The ipod touch is less and Apple has a much better store than Sony or Microsoft and the ipod touch is cheaper for the same memory or about $40 more for twice the memory of a PSP Go.

PSP did nothing for handheld gaming in making Sony a ton of money. The soccer moms are going to buy their kid a DS Lite or a DSi because once again Nintendo dominates the handheld video gaming market. The DS platform has been out for almost five yearsnow. Do soccer moms really get the idea of buying a hand held game system but not being able to buy actual games for it? Having to go to an online store is to big of a hassle for some consumers and its easier to just buy the real physical games at retail. Not to mention that the DS Lite and DSi are way cheaper than the PSP Go.

Another thing that is going to kill this is that the PSP Go is more expensive than the X-Box 360 Arcade and a Nintendo Wii console. For $50 more dollars you can get an X-Box 360 elite or even a PS3 Slim, what the fuck is Sony thinking here? The PSP platform is older than both of these current generation $199.99 consoles (360 and Wii). Sony is also telling their original core consumer group to go FUCK THEMSELVES because if you want to upgrade, your UMD's are now SHIT and you have to purchase everything again for the PSP Go in a digital format.

I want a PSP GO, but for $249.99 for essentially a format that was released in the United States four years ago without a UMD drive and a smaller screen is shit pricing. At least with the ipod touch someone can create an app. to simulate getting kicked in the balls after you purchase it.

[xycury]

What they need to do is create an external UMD drive that you can plug into the GO.

Rip the game, do an install to card option, and be done with it.

If they did that, I'd gladly buy it.

But spitting in the previous PSP owners face isn't how you make customers. Definately not returning customers.

[Ryuukishi]

What they need to do is create an external UMD drive that you can plug into the GO.

Rip the game, do an install to card option, and be done with it.
You still have the problem of people ripping a rented or borrowed game. I think you're right though, that's probably the best option for not alienating current PSP owners while still having some protection against piracy.

What they really need is a unique one-use download code printed on the manual or otherwise packaged with each game. But then they would need to have known about the Go plans from the beginning.

[KingBroly]

That still brings up the problem of pre-existing games people have already bought/currently own. But I will say that I like that idea.

[CrimsonPaw]

Engadget PSP go review:
http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/28/psp-go-review/

[xycury]

You still have the problem of people ripping a rented or borrowed game. I think you're right though, that's probably the best option for not alienating current PSP owners while still having some protection against piracy.

What they really need is a unique one-use download code printed on the manual or otherwise packaged with each game. But then they would need to have known about the Go plans from the beginning.

You could make it read the original disc every month or so. Just like Steam requiring internet access for games.

This would be a transition, but right now they are pulling a Nintendo with half a retard here. Nintendo made the DS and DSlite compatible with the older gen. PSPGo is cutting that cord. They are going to support two formats, and currently the "next gen" software is compatible to older gen hardware, but not the other way around. It's just another point that the UMD system was an awful idea, and this point is from Sony.

What they could do is that games should be serialized right? Get a unique game, rip it, update the online database, if that game tries to rip again, it can only go onto the unique system it ripped to before.


This would be a minor inconvienence, like Steam needing online, before you switch it offline.

[manthing]

This console reeks of Sony's desperation to salvage the PSP platform.

It's been 5 years since the PSP hit the market, and the best Sony could do is to add Bluetooth?

Why didn't they add RAM, update the awful web browser, archiac text input, or embarrasingly dated B wifi?


the people that are talking stuff like its going to fail why the hell are you in this thread get a life because its not going to fail at all

Shut up.


its dead on arrival, watch and see.

Yep.

[Reichan]

I do agree w/ that they just did a wrong instead off upgrading the late types of PSP's instead of changing its all features add/remove thats kinda epic phail, i just wished they just added new features on late PSP's or just arranged the placing of the controls.

[Malik112099]

Engadget PSP go review:
http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/28/psp-go-review/


we're really not getting enough here to justify it to our wallets.


/thread.

[Javery]

I really can't see this thing being a success. I haven't had a need to upgrade since the PSP 1000 (which I still love) and this new one isn't changing my mind. Are people really going to spend $250 on it?