Value in the PSP Value Pack? - A CAG Editorial

[CheapyD]

I've decided to try and write one editorial a week that will appear on the front page. The first one will be published shortly.

The articles will not be your usual game reviews/previews, but more CAG focused, with topics that relate to game shopping and value.

If the feedback is positive, I will continue, if negative, I will jump out the window.

Edit: Posted: http://www.cheapassgamer.com/archives/000958.php


Value in the PSP Value Pack? - A CAG Editorial

[/url]In North America, customers interested in purchasing a Sony PSP have two choices- buy the Value Pack bundle for $250 or don’t buy a PSP. The Value Pack (or Ensemble de Valeur as it’s known in France) includes a 32MB Sony Memory Stick, headphones, remote, case, cloth, wrist strap and Spiderman 2 UMD.

Many gamers have no interest in these additional items and, since there is no a la carte PSP option, are holding off buying a PSP. Here in the US, there has been no official word from Sony about any other purchase options besides the Value Pack. However, if the Japanese market is any indication, Americans will eventually be able to buy a PSP, sans accessories, at a reduced price.

Is there any value in the PSP Value Pack? Let’s break it down, CAG style.

According to http://www.Yodobashi.co.jp (http://www.cheapassgamer.com/archives/000958.php), a popular Japan-based electronics retailer, a solo PSP retails for 20,700 yen or $192 US. I’m no economist, but I bet a straight currency conversion isn’t fair, so let’s give Sony the benefit of the doubt and price a Value Pack-less PSP at $200 US. Just what does our (lack of willpower and) $50 get us?

The Value Pack:
http://www.cheapassgamer.com/cheapyd/cag/pspvaluepack.gif
Camera shy: Cloth

32MB Sony Memory Stick Duo
Isn’t it great when electronics companies force you to pay for an accessory that’s barely adequate to get the job done, all but requiring you to buy a superior replacement? You’ll notice this theme running through most of these items. In fact, the Value Pack may be the crowning achievement in useless accessory pack marketing. Before we get ahead of ourselves, let’s get back to the grossly undersized Memory Stick. It’s perfectly adequate for saving game information, but if you want to take advantage of the PSP’s audio/video functionality (and you will), you must purchase a larger card. A minutes worth of MP3 takes up 1MB of memory, so I recommend a 512MB card. If you do your homework (and aren’t afraid of eBay), you can get one for $60 or so. At $120-$150, the 1GB cards are too pricey right now in my opinion.
Value: $15 (according to eBay)
Cheapy says: Buy a bigger Memory Stick, ASAP.

Headphones
Like most headphones that are included with audio products, the PSP's earbud headphones are terrible and should be replaced immediately. They are uncomfortable after 5 minutes of use and have no bass response whatsoever. Gamers who actually use these things with their PSP will be doing themselves a great disservice. And what’s up with the “iPod Biting White” color scheme? Not only does it not match the PSP, it also flashes the “iPod Alert” to all muggers in the immediate area.
Value: $0 (-$250 and possible lacerations and/or gunshot wounds if you get mugged)
Cheapy says: Replace immediately. I recommend some cheap ass $20 Koss headphones (http://www.cheapassgamer.com/go.php?http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B0006B486K/cheapassgam08-20).

Remote
The remote allows you to access music controls while your PSP’s controls are out of reach (read: in your pocket). The cord is about 3 feet long and, to the delight of muggers, is also “iPod Biting White.” There are 5 buttons and a Hold switch which locks the remote. The buttons allow you to increase/decrease volume, play/pause, and forward/backward track select (and fast forward/rewind when held). The remote is functional, but in an absolutely minimal way. It does not even have an LCD screen like my 5 year-old MD player.
Value: $10 (a good MD remote with LCD screen sells for $40)
Cheapy says: If you want a remote, this is the only option currently available.

Wrist Strap
I predict that most of you will never take the strap out of its packaging. It’s pretty dorky looking. Sure, it might keep your PSP from hitting the floor, but at what cost? The strap is also white and is made of 100% Pleather. The only excuse for using this would be if you are incredibly clumsy or if you have recently suffered some kind of wrist trauma.
Value: $1
Cheapy says: Real men don’t use straps.

[u]Spiderman 2 UMD
Sony has said that the first million Value Packs shipped to the US will include a UMD of the Spiderman 2 movie. The movie looks and sounds great, but comes with no bonus features (or even DVD- style scene selection). I imagine that most gamers have seen the movie already, but even so, it’s still the best included “extra” in the Value Pack.
Value: $10
Cheapy says: You may actually watch this.

Case
You are probably going to want a case for your PSP since it’s likely not going to remain in one piece without some kind of protection. Since it doesn’t actually open or close, the included case is really more of a padded sleeve, but let’s call it a case for the purposes of this article. The case is a bit bulky, but at least it’s not white. As soon as Logitech’s $20 PlayGear Pocket Case (http://www.cheapassgamer.com/go.php?http://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/click?id=FKSJxY2VJAk&offerid=54879.256290&type=2) is released (4/14/05), I think the Value Pack cases are going to find new homes in closets all across America. Logitech’s effort is actually a case that opens and closes (imagine that!) and best of all, allows you to use your PSP while it’s still inside. Depending on how you use it, the top of the case can swivel to form a viewing stand, useful for watching movies, or a visor to help cut down on screen glare.
Value: $3
Cheapy says: Logitech’s case looks like it will be worth the $20. We’ll have to wait a week or so to find out.

Cloth
There’s not much to say about the cloth whose function is to keep the PSP’s screen clean. The cloth is about 4x4, gray(ish), and has no Sony or PSP markings on it whatsoever.
Value: $1
Cheapy says: It’s a cloth.

The Bottom Line
If you add up all the assigned amounts, we learn that our $50 Value Pack only contains a grand total of $40 worth of stuff. Even worse, a PSP owner would likely want to replace most, if not all, of the Value Pack items except the cloth, of course (I know I will never part with mine).

There is no question that the only true value in the PSP Value Pack is the PSP itself. Those who want a PSP now and can spring for the extra $50 will do so and probably won’t be disappointed. Those who aren’t willing to break the $200 barrier will be content to wait for Sony to sell the PSP a la carte. Frankly, regardless of one’s views on Sony, its sales and marketing strategies, and the PSP/Value Pack, it’s hard not to be amazed that such a small, technologically advanced multimedia device is available at a price under $300.

Besides, who can put a price on instant gratification? Oh yeah, its $50.

[Danimal]

I think it sounds like a great idea. I'm looking forward to reading them.

[evilmax17]

No witty name?

Cagditorial?

Gabbin' about CAG?

Cagging off?

[vherub]

edit: no need to jump out the window...

I think the value pack would also have a greater value if the supply was unable to meet demand. I have not heard many people unable to purchase the psp, if there was a shortage, then gamers, even cagers would be willing to pay the $50 premium. As a thousand posts can show, rarity and value are entangled.
This does not fit exactly into your breakdown of why the psps value tacks on fairly worthless riders to an otherwise attractive package, but rarity does demand a seat at any table discussing value.

Along similar lines, the dead pixel issue is kind of a pink elephant in terms of value. Purchasing a value pack on ebay would be a silly move because you cannot easily return it and ask for one without dead pixels as you can in a store. A similar analogy would be buying used games at ebgames (when yo know you will get a case/instructions) and gamestop (where its a gamble). The condition of the product, especially when the condition can vary so widely as the psp does, does affect the value. This is not something unique to a value pack, but if the $50 is really just earning you early adopter status. Even that $50 can become a worse deal if it buys you a product you end up frustrated with, returning or replacing (like some of the value accessories themselves).

Anyway, editorials on cheapity are great and very much undertapped, looking forward to the next one.

[JohnnyDrama]

cool, can't wait to read them

[The Successful Dropout]

I've decided to try and write one editorial a week that will appear on the front page.
The first one will be published today.

The articles will not be your usual game reviews/previews, but more CAG focused, with topics that relate to game shopping and value.

If the feedback is positive, I will continue, if negative, I will jump out the window.

wait....what kind of window are we talking about here....eighth floor, 60 mph car or first floor?

[MaxBiaggi2]

If the feedback is . . . negative, I will jump out the window.

Hurray! No really, it's just nice to see someone (anyone in today's society) willing to take some level of responsibility for the work they do. Props to the OP! :D

[WhipSmartBanky]

wait....what kind of window are we talking about here....eighth floor, 60 mph car or first floor?
Basement.

[evilmax17]

Article wasn't bad, the cheapshots at the cloth were quite uncalled for though. I wouldn't be surprised if some of the cloth-enthusiasts at this site aren't writing you a nasty PM as we speak.

[dude2003]

well written article cheapy but i'd like to add something to it.
in japan they're selling the psp for $192 US dollars according to the article but then japanese electronics are always more expensive than electronics here in the states. PS2 was more expensive, PSX was more expensive so i wouldn't rule out the PSP as more expensive as well. so the $192 US dollars per PSP in japan could very well be around $175 US dollars here in the states. so i'd say the "(under)value pack" is a rip-off even more so than the article stated.

[CheapyD]

Yeah, its hard to tell, sometimes electronics are cheaper in Japan, sometimes its more expensive. I figured I'd give Sony the benefit of the doubt. Thanks for reading!

[Monsta Mack]

Good post. I think I'll wait for the non-value pack to hit the shelves and for Sony to work the kinks out, hopefully by this fall if the XBox2 hits that will be the rage and the price of PSP will drop a bit, as well as a standard pack being released so the most I'll to pay is $200. I rather put the extra $50 towards a more durable case and memory stick.

[vanlandw]

great article cheapy....the "value pack" really does suck ass..and i think most conumers seem to feel the same way.....when best buy has a sign out fron of their store that says "WE HAVE PSP'S" sony must have messed something up.

gg

[ElwoodCuse]

Good read. It sucks how game companies have gotten away from worthwhile pack-ins (like games and a second controller) and instead giving us accessories of varying degrees of use.

[sblymnlcrymnl]

Good read.

And on the subject of cheap, portable headphones I'd recommend these. (http://www.buy.com/retail/product.asp?sku=90143834&loc=111&sp=1)

:-)

[CheapyD]

Good read.

And on the subject of cheap, portable headphones I'd recommend these (http://www.buy.com/retail/product.asp?sku=90143834&loc=111&sp=1)

:-)Yes! I just bought those. Koss makes good (cheap) stuff!
Amazon/Target has them in stock:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B0006B486K

[sblymnlcrymnl]

Yes! I just bought those. Koss makes good (cheap) stuff!
Amazon/Target has them in stock:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B0006B486K

I just got them myself, had to replace my old KSC-50's after they broke (my fault, I was trying to pry something open with them and snapped the connector. :oops: :lol:

[DaleNixon]

The bundle mentality is the antithesis of any self-respecting CAG. This editorial pretty much sums up why I won't be buying a psp any time soon. $50 for instant gratification? No thanks! That's at least 3 cheap ass games!

[hutno]

What disappoints me, is that sony leaves out a usb cable and any software for importing/converting audio and video, which seem like things that are essential for the systerm

[Bennyhanna316]

well i may be in the minority but im happy with my purchase. Yes the 32mb card is small but it wasnt included to be the Ipod killer memory card, it was included i think to save your games. which is what im using mine for, the 256 card i went out and bought is for my Music. and whatever other crap i want to put on it.

the case is a joke ill agree, my brother got a PSP also,(our wives werent too happy with each of us shelling out 250 + games :) )anyway, the little case scratched his screen up, i went and bought a starter kit with a new case, the USB cable, game cases, a car adaptor and a couple other things.

the wipe, although may seem stupid its cool they included one, its better than using your TShirt to wipe off the screen which IMO is a friggin dust magnet.

i dont care too much for the headphone, just because of the sound but they rnt that bad, i know they arent top of the line,. and i really like the button remote thingie. yeah i wouldnt have made it white, but its only a color.

wrist strap, who cares

and Spiderman2 i didnt see it in the theaters, most because of the wife didnt want too, so i was happy to get it on UMD so i could finally see it. i think sony did an OK job tryin to make a decent pack, its alot better than wheni bought my DS last yr and only got a metroid demo. the memory card is a necessity since they r on discs, and theres no internal battery to save your progress, and i feel a 32 MB card does the job with a line up of what was it 12 launch games? 15? so over all im a happy customer. :)

[FriskyTanuki]

Good read.

And on the subject of cheap, portable headphones I'd recommend these. (http://www.buy.com/retail/product.asp?sku=90143834&loc=111&sp=1)

:-)

These (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=4294285&type=product&productCategoryId=cat08352&id=1051384802735) are even cheaper and they're great headphones.

[dtcarson]

FWIW, this is not really anything new, nor is it endemic to gaming. If you buy a car with a dvd player built in, you're going to pay 2x-10x what it's 'worth' for the privilege of having it 'bundled'. Heck, if i go to certain restaurants, my dinner is 'bundled' with a salad, which I don't want, but have to pay for.
While I would definitely appreciate 'useful' packins, who defines 'useful'? For the random Joe Consumer, not Joe Gamer, willing to drop 250 on this, he probably wouldn't mind all the 'extras'. Might not even try to quantify the costs.
Most of the retailers sold 'bundle packs' which in some cases saved a little money, at the expense of adding stuff you might not want or need. And on some console releases, the only way to buy the console was in a bundle. Like someone else said, it would have more power if the PSP were incredibly in demand [selling-out, lines-out-the-door in-demand.]
Anyway, I don't think it will be too long before the PSP is available without all the extras; and the early adopter of tech always pays more.
I agree, The 'value pack' is definitely not a 'value', [then again, why would they offer a *discount* for a piece of hardware that just came out?] and is not very CAG-friendly, but like was said earlier, if you want to buy it, you'll buy it the way they sell it.

I enjoyed the article, and you needn't jump out a window. Unless you really want to, but no matter how much you drink, you won't be able to fly.

[spoo]

I love Editorials, good, bad or ugly. This one is good but you forgot to mention the $50 games for a handheld.

[Purkeynator]

I enjoyed the article and look forward to more. On the PSP I think Sony knew they would be taking a bath on selling the hardware alone for $180 like the Japanese get, so they decided to make up some of their losses by only selling us the "value" pack. To me having junk accessories that I will be replacing is worth $0. I will be holding off too until there is at least one original game that is worth a crap and the system is a more affordable $180 and put the money I save toward a decent memory stick and case.

[Purkeynator]

I love Editorials, good, bad or ugly. This one is good but you forgot to mention the $50 games for a handheld.
On that note, do you guys think they will come out with a Greatest Hits line for the PSP eventually? I sure hope so, $15 after GGC sounds a lot better than $40- 50.

[Derwood43]

Very well written Cheapy.

I was able to tell which side you were on, but you didn't make us feel stupid for paying the extra $50. You're right, I am happy with the "extras". My next purchase/ pre-order is the Logitech Pocketgear. I just don't feel safe leaving the PSP in soft case...too many things can happen.

[jlkeeton]

I pretty much agree. The 32 MB stick might be a good option only if you're saving games. Maybe their thought is that leaving it out might have people stuck having to pay the 30$ or so for a 128 MB stick (new, retail, that is). It'll be nice to have game saves on it while I use my larger one for other purposes. It would be nice to have that option if you didn't want any of these:-).

BTW, the cloth is worth more than 1$ :-). I used to sell them for 5$ when I worked retail in college (high end store, so a premium). I think WM and Target will have 'em just under 3$, but you're definitely right in that is the highest 'value' item in the bunch.

I definitely need the wrist strap. I was on a cruise with my DS in Feb and nearly had it tumble from the boat jerking suddently and would've been very angry with a broken DS screen :(. It would be nice if it were easily attachable/detachable (it's hard pleather that won't bend easily, either!).

[twanky]

Nice write up Cheapy! That 32mb memory stick useless and there needs to be USB cable of somesort included with the system.

[Ultros]

this was a good read Cheapy. I'm convinced to return my PSP now and wait for it later. thanks!

[Alpha2]

Well written. I look forward to more editorials.

I do however dissagree slightly on a few points such as: Am I the only person here who already has headphones? I'm not shelling out extra cash anyway for new 'phones. I'm just going to use the ones I'm using on my MP3 player (or walkman or CD player in someone elses case). It was nice of them to offer it, but no nicer than any other company that includes headphones that you'll never use. Out of the 5 audio products I've bought in the last 5 years or more I've NEVER used the pack in, they've ALL sucked, why would Sony's break that trend? Because it's part of a value pack? Feh.

32mb card. "Replace" is a strong word, I wouldn't use "replace" because it's not like I'm not going to use it. I probably wouldn't touch eBay for something like the memstick. I come to CAG for deals not eBay because I don't trust eBay, 10 bucks? for a 32 mb? maybe, maybe not. If I didn't have it at all then that would mean I'd still have to shell out for it when I get my system and eBay would be more likely to gouge you for 15 or 20 more bucks if this was the case. Yes, I'll probably get another card at some point in the future but I'll probably also get several other cards at some point, that dosent make the pack-in any less usefull of valueable.

The Wrist strap and sleeve. I'll use them. The PSP is too big for my pants pocket unless I'm wearing super baggies so I will likly put in in my book bag or jacket pocket and anything that blocks direct contact with a hard surface or being ripped from my hand by a mugger is helpful for protection. Skimmpy protection but not completly unappriciated. (There's a tread where someone tryied to steal the poster's PSP while he had the strap on which aided in hang on to the system, it was a minor help but help none the less.) The cloth? Maybe I'll wrap it around the PSP when I put it in the case. :razz:

Spiderman UMD. Agreed probably the best thing you wil get if you can get it at all, the first million only? I wouldn't call this part of the value pack if only so many people can get it. This is a freebie to me if I get it because they very well could have said "You want one? Go buy it skippy!" which they WILL be saying to Mr. Million+1.

Yeah the value pack is kinda cheesy but not hideously unexpected, some might even say cool if they get the Spiderman movie. The lack of a cable is odd but not a deal breaker as many people people already have digital cameras that use the same cable of have actual memory stick slots on some computers or maybe Sony wants to use the WiFi in the future to transfer things to it(heck some people might buy it for other people that don't even have a use for the cable because they dont know how to use a computer, whatever) Who knows, I know I have 3 such cables at my own disposal and anyone who has bought a USB device in the past 2 years probably has one too.

In the end everyone buying it on launch day or in the first 6 months could be considered an Early Adopter and all early adpoters, whether it's buying a GBA for 30 bucks more from Japan or an extra 100 bucks on a new console for jacked up eBay reseller auction price or the 50 tacted on by the actual company on the store shelf, pay a little extra for the privlage of having the device in our hands a little longer than the people who wait... they need someone to be jealous of after all!

I hope that didnt sound like a rant because I totally had no intention of that when I started.

[robot]

Just wanted to chime in and say I think the wrist strap and case are worth a bit more than $4 combined. Lik Sang is selling them packaged for $30, which is a bit ridiculous, but I'd put them closer to $10-$15. I try to use the wrist strap whenever I can just because it's hard to keep a firm grip on something so awesome (especially when playing Ridge Racers). And that cloth is a godsend - dont use tissues or tp to wipe the screen people!

It's pretty obvious Sony released the Value pack to set up the obvious price drop to $199. They can easily take out some of the accesoriess to justify the drop. Granted these "trinkets" they included arent worth $50, but they have to offset thier first run losses somehow right?

PS - Ridge Racers and Acid kick massive amounts of ass

[YoshiFan1]

The value pack is exactly why I didn't get a PSP yet. I'm not paying $50 for a bunch of accessories I don't wantand I don't mind waiting until the fall for a hopeful standalone system deal.

[gaelan]

:applause:
nice editorial...funny too. i'm gonna use your write up in a school project unless you have a problem with it. i'll include you in my sources.

D., Cheapy. A CAG Editorial: Value in the PSP Value Pack?. 2005.

[woobacca]

Great editorial. Well organized and informative. I'll definitely be on the look out for more of these going forward. Just curious Cheapy - what else did you have in mind for future articles? Or do you not want to spoil the surprise...

[cdeener]

Thanks CheapyD, thus another reason for me not to buy a PSP until the price drops to a hundred bucks because you know that Sony will flood the market but if people don't buy what they are selling they are eventually going to have to drop the price.

[rebthor]

I enjoyed your Cheap-Assitorial very much. Do you have a newsletter or mailing list of some sort?

[grayfox]

That soft case, in my opinion, is pretty solid. Granted, plenty of things can happen to the PSP in it, atleast the case protects against scratches on the screen, and helps the PSP not get dirty.

And to the guy who said his PSP got scratches from the soft case, how the? I don't think that's possible, unless something was left inside, or on top of the screen. But hey, I'm probably wrong, ah well. If this is the case, I'll have to figure something out for mine, I don't want scatches. Or anyone else want to chime in on this subject? I'd hate to have my PSP damage by Sony itself, granted, that wouldn't surprise me.

Oh, kickass editorial as well, well written indeed :)

[Snake2715]

good read

Do you have the next few articles subjects picked out? Or should we all start a brainstorm?

[CheapyD]

Thanks for the feedback guys!
I don't have a clue what will be written about next. If you have any ideas feel free to shoot me PM.

[danny90044]

good shit cheapy

[adamsappel]

Good read, looking forward to more.

[Apossum]

Good article cheapy! keep it up!

that's all very true for the most part-- the value pack isn't materially worth it and you're basically paying to own it early, like you said. Then again, that's what always happens when a system launches-- wasn't the PS2 and Xbox about $300 when they first came out for just the core system and a controller? Companies always milk the hype for a bit, then drop it.

but so many people are focusing on the negative aspects of the PSP. But for almost every criticism, there's a counter point. my friends who don't own one have been arguing with me since i got it and i've broken it down to these core complaints--

Short battery life - replacable batteries and power brick solutions. No worrying about lithium ion dying on you.

Expensive, bad, rehashed games - the games look almost as good as a ps2 and there's something for almost everyone. Despite people's opinions, none of them are really bad games. if your expectations are too high, then sucks to be you. some of these games really break the mold and could hold their own on a console(metal gear acid and lumines, namely.) the ports are excellent. this is the first time we have ever seen portable games like this, they're only going to get better. and every motivated cag can get them for about $20 or less.

Expensive system - one look at the clarity of the screen and anyone can see why....and it also plays music, movies, views pictures, wi-fi enabled (and unofficially browses the web) it has the specs of a ps2. all things considered, it looks pretty cheap to me.

Proprietary media - sony wanted a digital media format for their system so they made it and it works well. it's a little more pricey but it provides the best in portable gaming.

Difficult to transfer stuff - drag and drop music onto the card, learn to convert movies, and voila, the difficulty just disappears.

The biggest problems--

Dead pixels. it sucks horribly for those who have had to return them multiple times. if the problem is as bad as it seems, you have to wonder what the hell happened at the factory.

Memory stick duo-- why not compact flash? that little difference could've changed the way everyone looks at this system.

just my two cents. I really believe in this system and think it will continue to build a lot of steam. sorry for the novel :)

[sblymnlcrymnl]

These (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=4294285&type=product&productCategoryId=cat08352&id=1051384802735) are even cheaper and they're great headphones.

As great as the KSC-75s? Somehow I doubt it, as they are a spectacular value.

[clockworkvictim]

Great read... I really liked that article. I was wondering if all that stuff was worth getting with the PSP.

[WhipSmartBanky]

Great read. You write really well and it was a thoughtful, well-organized article.

[ArthurDigbySellers]

Good article, cheapy. I look forward to the next one.

[scdoanintendo]

Nice read. Maybe, just a thought, you could allow people to submit their editorials as well. And how about a final thought a la egm where all the mods could get together and discuss a specific topic . Just a thought and look forward to the next read.

[woobacca]

Great read. You write really well and it was a thoughtful, well-organized article.Hey WSB, I can't tell if you're being serious or subtly poking fun at the everyone who's been saying the same thing. ;)

[$hady]

I think the system looks hella cool, but i'm not gonna buy one. I'll save my money for Xbox 2 and just do my gaming on my cellphone, i dont really need theportable music/movies. I got a $10 small pocket radio and ear buds that do the job fine.

Good review though.

[WhipSmartBanky]

Hey WSB, I can't tell if you're being serious or subtly poking fun at the everyone who's been saying the same thing. ;)
It's a great talent, isn't it? :)

In this case though, I'm being serious. I really didn't read much of what anyone else wrote before I added my own opinion.

[JBlade00]

Someone asked if Sony would come out with a Greatest Hits series for $20.

I seriously doubt that they would, considering no other portable gaming device has ever come out with greatest hits for cheaper... they just drop the price. But then again it could be possible since the games are damn near the same price as consoles... So I don't know.

[deathcabforcutie]

very impressed with the level of skill that went into that writing cheapy.. nice job!!

[dpatel]

Good read. Definetly will continue to read if you decide to continue it.

[AzianAsspicker]

i agree that the psp has barely any bass, but when i put the earbuds and put my hands around my ears and squish the earphones in then i get alot more of a bass sound

[dracula]

i watched the spidey 2 umd movie and immediately put it up on ebay of UK with a 35 dollar buyitnow and it sold the next day *shrugs*

only the first million PSP will include the spidey 2 movie, it is a craptastic movie, has some nice action scenes but really it is a sh!tty movie.

It does retail for about $30 tho, so i think calling it a "$10 value" is flat out inaccurate(sorry cheapy)

again, i sold mine for $35 after watching it once.

the cloth is a good cloth for cleaning the screan without scratching it as well as cleaning the bottoms of dvds/cds/games so i would say it is more like a $4 item not $1.

the memory stick is about $10 of an item. the headphones i havent used(i have a good set of headphones already)

The remote thing and wrist strap are useless/worthless as cheapy D suggests but you can probably ebay the remote for about $5 to $10(i am guessing). The value pack for me was a good deal, bc like i said i sold the spidey movie for $35 and i actually make use of the memory stick(for games, i am waiting for a pricedrop on the good memory sticks)

[pumbaa]

I think was most interesting about the article is its perspective. We know that the PSP has all these things in it and come to the conclusion that the materials inside the box aren't worth it. Current Sony marketing doesn't mention ANY of these inclusions... so I can imagine the stickershock that the more mainstream consumer feels.

[Alpha2]

i watched the spidey 2 umd movie and immediately put it up on ebay of UK with a 35 dollar buyitnow and it sold the next day *shrugs*

only the first million PSP will include the spidey 2 movie, it is a craptastic movie, has some nice action scenes but really it is a sh!tty movie.

It does retail for about $30 tho, so i think calling it a "$10 value" is flat out inaccurate(sorry cheapy)

again, i sold mine for $35 after watching it once.

You're lucky seeing as most UMD prices on Amazon (if I recall correctly) have dropped to 12 bucks already. Especially lucky since the DVD goes for 30 with extras and a DVD case. In a few weeks people will probably refuse to pay more than 10 bucks once they can buy the movie separatly for 12 or 14 bucks with a case.

[dracula]

You're lucky seeing as most UMD prices on Amazon (if I recall correctly) have dropped to 12 bucks already. Especially lucky since the DVD goes for 30 with extras and a DVD case. In a few weeks people will probably refuse to pay more than 10 bucks once they can buy the movie separatly for 12 or 14 bucks with a case.


yeah i was surprised someone bought it(tho when i listed mine, there were no other spidey 2 umd movies on ebay, go figure), but remember the spidey 2 umd movie is only in the first 1 million units so that is not really part of the value pack.

amazon.com really is selling the umd movies for $12? is that all of the movies? i was under the impression the umd movies are going to be $30 everywhere. got a link?

edit:

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/search-handle-url/index%3Dblended%26field-keywords%3Dumd%26store-name%3Dall-product-search/104-8932704-9994329

holy smokes, it looks like the movies really will be only $14, that is VERY nice. I think i will mostly just use my psp to watch movies and play lumines(and maybe mercury). there arent really many games that appeal to me for the PSP(yet) aside from those 2.

I was totally against the umd movies initially bc i thought they were going to be $30. If the msrp on these is really $14, then that is very reasonable. They will probably be about $7-$10 for used umd movies and that is basically about the price of a dvd movie rental.

[jho]

that editorial was a really good read - definitely informative. Hope you keep writing them cheapy.

[Oxybeles]

Superior Editorial.

The memory card is necessary to save games, albeit, a larger capicity card should have been provided, 128 MB minimum.

I also think the earbuds should have been deleted, as well as the wired remote control. Wireless is the only way to fly for a remote control.

As for the case, come'on Sony, provide a real case.

The wriststrap is a good idea, since cameras and such come with such an item, but why white?

The cleaning cloth is wonderful, however, cleaning solution should also have been provided.

The movie is a nice bonus, but the game video UMD is completely worthless.

[twylight]

/agreed 100%

I am using nothing from the value pack but the PSP. I do show off the demo disk when people want to see what it can do...

I think picking UMD instead of solid state format like a little hard drive/flash was a massive mistake. Love the thing tho.

twi

[robot]

Memory stick duo-- why not compact flash? that little difference could've changed the way everyone looks at this system.



That makes about as much sense as Xbox letting you use a Gamecube memory card to save games. Memory Sticks are sonys format - there was a zero chance of them going with compact flash. They could've gone with the regular memory sticks instead of duo, but im not too sure that wouldve made much of a difference.

[Alpha2]

I have a feeling they're phasing out the regular Memorystick completly which is why they're pushing the pro duo.

[tickdude]

Great read Cheapy. I agree with you on all points. I think it's better to play the wait and see game.

[Theenternal]

dont have time to read the next 3 pages, but CheapyD pointed out the value is estimated at around 40ish. And spiderman 2 is not guaranteed with every bundle. So think about the people paying 50 extra for 30$ in crap. Its craptastic,

=

[GT]

Was a good editorial.

For the next one, how about a series on "Best/Worst Bargains in Gaming".

It perhaps could cover more obscure gaming purchases, for example, people keep mentioning headphones on this thread. For the PSP, a lot of people are struggling with those plastic screen protectors with a lot of debate over which is best.

You could categorize it by platform (ps2, psp, xbox, ngc, etc.).

Just an idea.

[bignick]

I like it. It makes the site feel more yours.

[seanw]

Thanks for the recommendation on the Koss. Amazon delivered them to me overnight (using free super saver shipping!) and I like them a lot.

[broke]

The bundle is crap. I don't want any of it (especially Spiderman, which is one of the only actual items with value) - do I tell Sony what movies to buy? Sheesh - I find it offensive.
And did you notice the disks are called Universal Media Disks, and they don't work on any other system? Universal my ass.

[jlkeeton]

VP is even less Value now... gizmogc just pointed out that PSP Value Packs are out there without Spiderman 2 UMD now.

Can anyone confirm if they included anything else to replace the "value" of the SM2 UMD? I checked out Amazon, EBgames, and Gamestop, and all have removed references to the SM2 UMD being included.

This now makes this 'bundle' almost like Sony is sticking it to anyone wanting the system right now.

[CheapyD]

Thanks for the recommendation on the Koss. Amazon delivered them to me overnight (using free super saver shipping!) and I like them a lot. Cool...glad you like them! Best $15 headphones you ever bought, right?

VP is even less Value now... gizmogc just pointed out that PSP Value Packs are out there without Spiderman 2 UMD now.
Can anyone confirm if they included anything else to replace the "value" of the SM2 UMD? I checked out Amazon, EBgames, and Gamestop, and all have removed references to the SM2 UMD being included.
This now makes this 'bundle' almost like Sony is sticking it to anyone wanting the system right now.
Spiderman 2 is not really part of the Value Pack. It is considered a bonus to those who purchase one of the first million Value Packs.

[jlkeeton]

Spiderman 2 is not really part of the Value Pack. It is considered a bonus to those who purchase one of the first million Value Packs.

Exactly, but it was one of the highest value items you saw in the VP, and now it's possible you won't even get that if you don't find the right VP. I thought that would be a significant detraction and was curious if anyone knew if Sony put anything extra in those VPs that are missing SM2. The VPs here all still have SM2, but the PSP hasn't been selling like hotcakes, either.

[bookishboy]

Amen, Cheapy, you're spot on with this. I was rather annoyed at being fleeced as an early adopter. I can accept that the same system will probably cost $50, then $100 less over the next 3 years; that always happens with gaming systems. Asking me to buy my system, at the highest price it will EVER BE, and THEN add on a bunch of peripherals that I may or may not want, is just greedy. Given the choice, I'd have decked out my psp with that logitech case and a 512meg Memory Stick....and, oh yea, a screen protector. That's about it.

I don't know if this has come up in discussions on these boards also before, but major retailers have been doing this for awhile, if you attempt to buy a system online from them. When I was looking for an Xbox, when the system first came out, my situation was that I could only order online. NONE of the stores would let me purchase JUST an XBox....and then choose what games I wanted separately. Every single major retailer (EB, GS, TRU, BB, more) offered the system only in value packs, which would come with 3 games....different packs came with different games, and you couldn't mix-and-match. So my options were to either not buy the system at all until months later, or buy it for a noticeably higher price, wiith 3 $50 games (1 which I really wanted, 1 which I was so-so on, and the other which I couldn't care less about). I viewed this as an annoyance, and mildly extortionate ("sure, we'll sell you an xbox, we understand that it's hard to come by since it's brand-new and you didn't pre-order. But...ahhh....we only have 'bundled' systems left. You'll have to buy one of them.") There wasn't anything different about the product, or the packaging with this "bundle" than with the regular systems. The system, second controller, and 3 games were all simply packed into a larger cardboard box for shipping. I'm sure this does wonders for their sales figures, though, when they project things like "attach rate" for console sales.

I also object to the term "value pack" in this case. Ususally a value bundle of any kind means that you will have paid less overall than if you had bought all of the items separately.

Did anyone notice the super-bundles that they were selling, for more than $250? You'd get like, a system and 3 games, but they might not be the three games that you'd choose, and the price is still the same as if you'd bought the system and 3 games separately. However, the store does get a fast and easy sale, and a great attach rate. Value, indeed.

[Zoglog]

I agree the value pack is a sham, it's pretty universally know it's a sham for sony to peddle thier cheap accessories which you will need to replace anyway. HOWEVER

I use the wrist Strap and I feel FAB! There's nothing wrong with it! BOOYAH

[CheapyD]

http://www.ny1.com/ny1/content/index.jsp?&aid=49506&search_result=1&stid=5
iPod Thefts Push Up Crime Rate On The Subway

The latest trend in music is apparently the latest trend in subway crime as well. Underground thieves are increasingly targeting iPod owners.

Police say iPod thefts, particularly kids stealing from other kids, have contributed to a 14 percent rise in subway felonies this year through mid-March as compared to the same period last year. That amounts to 10 felonies a day – still less than the 12-17 a day from 1995 to 2000, the NYPD points out.

“I had it in my pocket, and then it wasn’t there,” said one victim.

But many iPod-toting straphangers say the crime trend doesn't scare them.

“I feel safe wearing it in the subway,” said one rider. “I think there are enough people that have them, I don't feel like somebody's going to rip me off.”

“I've had friends whose stuff has gotten stolen,” said another iPod owner, “but whatever. You have to watch your stuff.”

The portable music players stand out, with the telltale white earphones giving away the fact that they're plugged into a gadget that retails from $200 to $450.

“I actually changed my headphones,” said another iPod owner. “I think the black headphones are camouflage, so people just think it’s a regular MP3 player – hopefully.”

The most common method riders use to prevent theft is to keep their iPods out of sight and hold on to them tight.

“I keep it in my bag all the time,” another rider said “I actually changed my headphones. I think the black headphones are camouflage, so people just think it’s a regular MP3 player – hopefully.”

The NYPD has been trying to combat the rise in subway crime with “impact teams” of eight officers and a sergeant at stations where robberies are most common.

[gameprozero]

Price is no matter, when I got my PSP I fell in love with it.

[RedvsBlue]

The bundle is crap. I don't want any of it (especially Spiderman, which is one of the only actual items with value) - do I tell Sony what movies to buy? Sheesh - I find it offensive.
And did you notice the disks are called Universal Media Disks, and they don't work on any other system? Universal my ass.

The universal comes from the fact that they support a variety of different media types such as games, movies, and music. They support media universally...

[Quackzilla]

The PSP neoprene case is worth more than $3, and it is a better design than the Logitech case.

Seriously, who here wants to haul around a portable system in a big plastic case?

The purpose of the case is to prevent it from getting scratched in your pocket, not to lock it up and protect it from the world.

Honestly, loosen up people.

BTW, the headphones are sexy, and the design is awesome.
And if you think someone is going to steal your PSP out of your pocket while you are listening to music, you have poor self-image issues.
And besides, it's not like they are going to fight you to the death for it.

[Quackzilla]

I love Editorials, good, bad or ugly. This one is good but you forgot to mention the $50 games for a handheld.

Good games are $40.

Bad games are $50.

Just like DS, bad games cost $10 more.



But still, I would take a $50 PSP game over a $40 DS minigame any day.

[CheapyD]

The PSP neoprene case is worth more than $3, and it is a better design than the Logitech case.

Seriously, who here wants to haul around a portable system in a big plastic case?

The purpose of the case is to prevent it from getting scratched in your pocket, not to lock it up and protect it from the world.

Honestly, loosen up people.

BTW, the headphones are sexy, and the design is awesome.
And if you think someone is going to steal your PSP out of your pocket while you are listening to music, you have poor self-image issues.
And besides, it's not like they are going to fight you to the death for it.

While you are certainly entitled to your opinion, it is clear from reading your post that:

1) You didn't read the article from NY1 that I posted above and don't live in a major city.
2) You haven't used the Logitech case nor compared its size to the included case.
3) You value the color of the headphones more than the sound quality, because those headphones sound like ass.

[Quackzilla]

1) I don't fear petty thieves. Put it in your pocket, it's heavy enough that you will know if someone is stealing it. Nobody is going to fight you for your PSP, they would rather lift an Ipod.
2) The logitech case is a hard shell case, the PSP case is a slide out case, which is my personal preference.
3) The PSP earbuds are good enough for me, I can't stand headphones and besides they are on par with the $25 earbuds I already own. I'm not an audiophile, and I can't even tell the difference between 133 and 192 kbps audio.


The price difference is due to the fact that the PSP system is made in Japan (accessories made in China and Vietnam), so they don't have to pay any tariffs within the country, but there are tariffs applied when they are imported in North America.

The DS is made in China, so both Japan and North America have to pay tariffs on it (less for NA). That is why the DS is cheaper in NA.

[Mr. Anderson]

I ordered those Koss headphones, I'll report back after I try them out for a few days.

[kelpie182]

1) I don't fear petty thieves. Put it in your pocket, it's heavy enough that you will know if someone is stealing it. Nobody is going to fight you for your PSP, they would rather lift an Ipod.
2) The logitech case is a hard shell case, the PSP case is a slide out case, which is my personal preference.
3) The PSP earbuds are good enough for me, I can't stand headphones and besides they are on par with the $25 earbuds I already own. I'm not an audiophile, and I can't even tell the difference between 133 and 192 kbps audio.


The price difference is due to the fact that the PSP system is made in Japan (accessories made in China and Vietnam), so they don't have to pay any tariffs within the country, but there are tariffs applied when they are imported in North America.

The DS is made in China, so both Japan and North America have to pay tariffs on it (less for NA). That is why the DS is cheaper in NA.

trust me if you invest in good ear/headphones you WILL HEAR the difference and it doesn't have to be expensive. the sony psp earphones are cheap and make games and movies sound low even on the higest volume setting.