At E3, Sony showed off their new handheld device, the Playtation Vita, which up until this point was going by the alias of NGP. Named after the Latin word for Life because of its “revolutionary” combination of gaming and social connectivity.
By combining these two, Sony aimed to create something that would bring users closer to their gaming experience and that connectivity to other users was an integral component of the system.
The Vita strongly resembles a PSP in its basic appearance, but it has a touchpad on the back, and a rather sizable front touchscreen. It also has two analog sticks and the traditional control appearance of the PS lineup, sans the L2 and R2 buttons.
Sony announced that the PSV would be hitting the global market at the price of $249, a very low price that is sure to easily compete with Nintendo’s 3DS which is its main threat in the market just now. Having two touch screens, the possibilities for the console are sharply increased. How this touch pad can be effectively used will have to wait for now until it lands in the hands of consumers.
Because 3G needs a provider, Sony has also stated that they have created a partnership with AT&T, who currently has the fastest mobile broadband in the nation. They will be the sole provider of the console’s mobile features, allowing people who connect with plenty of players easily. No price for this service has been announced thus far.
It’s rather astounding that Sony is able to come out with this so soon after the massive mess of the security scandal earlier this year. The large screen and high power of the console will make a very solid competitor for the 3DS. This truly is a fantastic year for gaming, it’s like developers have finally realized what we want, and we’re getting it.
In short, the Vita’s focus is on connecting gamers whenever, and wherever. This is a very impressive release, let’s hope they don’t mess it up.
