Why I cracked?
- I already had a PSP-3004, PS2, PS3, and these three consoles have given me total satisfaction
- I've already had the chance to lay hands on the SONY PS VITA to show, and try several games preview. I was packed!
- The presence of all the attributes of a living room controller, especially the presence of 2 analog sticks.
- The OLED screen, a small wonder that far surpasses LCDs other mobile devices.
- The launch lineup rather promising for the rest: Uncharted: Golden Abyss, Wipeout 2048, Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3, etc.
- I did not choose the 3G model, because apparently it is especially interesting for "social" functions, "internet" and I have not got the utility on a handheld console.
- Finally, do not deny that the supply of pre-order on amazon was VERY tempting.
Packaging / Instructions:
- The console is packed in a pretty little box and with the minimum necessary
- Besides the usual leaflets on legal information, warranty and parental control, you will be entitled to a simple flyer for the startup of the unit. This gives the main instructions to get started.
First impressions and first steps:
- The device is great, but fairly flat and rather light. Aesthetically the unit is a crazy class.
- After a first charge is started. The screen is super nice, super light and the display is clear, without aliasing.
- No problem for the setting. The interface is well done and the explanations are clear.
- The connection to the wireless network is so easy, especially if the router supports WPS (you press a button and it's ready).
- From the first day, an update is imposed. A little patience and we can finally connect to the PSN account!
Ergonomics (hardware):
- Unlike the flat stick of the PSP, we are treated to two mini-sticks that recall those of the DualShock (but not clickable). They are small, it takes getting used to, but in terms of comfort is therefore gain. Only gripe: they are located too close to the cross and action buttons.
- Action buttons are smaller than those of the PSP-3000. They are approximately the same size as those of the 3DS.
- The touch screen responds well. That's multitouch so you may well zoom in / out with two fingers ... to take a snapshot in WipeOut (for example).
- All ports are hidden with small valves, including the wearing of game cartridges For a memory card that does not affect every day, this is fine ... but for game cartridges. I wonder if it will withstand many years.
- Charging can be done via USB or an AC outlet.
- Connection to a PC or PS3 can be done via a USB connection. This is fine, but it's a shame that this requires a proprietary port (and therefore a special cable).
Ergonomics (interface):
- Already said, but no problem for parameterization
- The interface and menus are clear enough. The look is different from the XMB of PS3 and PSP. It's more whimsical and more user friendly.
- The device is multitasking, so we may well pause its part, launch another application (Internet, for example), then return to the game.
- It is not obvious, but the PS Store seems to have gained in clarity compared to the PS3 and PSP versions. Anyway, the download time seem shortcuts (and this is great news !!!)
- Good point also for the integration of game manuals and trophies.
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Balance sheet
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Positives:
- The power of the machine and its super screen for games with really impressive graphics on a handheld.
- A comprehensive and rich interface: touch screen, touch back, physical buttons, cross, true analog sticks.
- The ability to recover dematerialized PSP games (but only those bought at the store PlayStation Store) and enjoy the 2nd stick on some of these old games.
- Integration trophies on PS Vita games.
- A multimedia device to play music, videos.
- The quality of manufacture.
The Bad:
-. The lack of sufficient internal flash memory and a memory card format more "universal" ... hence the obligation to repurchase almost a memory card if you want to save its data set this a step backwards compared to the PSP GO ...
- There is no backwards compatibility to PSP games in UMD format. Understand that your old UMD games and movies will not pass on your PS Vita.
And now SONY Europe offered no program to link UMD PSN account. Even a fee as was done in Japan.
- The speakers are placed very close to the sticks and it is not uncommon to put your fingers on it.
- The sticks are situated too near the cross and buttons, which can facilitate bad manipulation 'of games where you have to be responsive and accurate.
To know:
- Those who have a PS3 can transfer data between PS3, PSP and PS Vita.
- The battery life is roughly equivalent to that of the 3DS, ie 3-5 hours.
- The battery is not removable and can be replaced at service.
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Associated purchases:
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- The use of PS Vita necessarily involve the acquisition of a memory card to save its parts. Do not expect to reuse those of the PSP, PS Vita has its own memory cards that are specific to it. Several sizes are available: 4GB, 8GB, 16GB, but I advise you at least 8 GB.
4 GB, it is rather intended for users who are convinced that they will download or games or videos.