Nintendo gamecube - PSP First Impressions...

Author

PSP First Impressions...

2005-04-07, 5:56 pm

SONY PSP - VERY FIRST IMPRESSIONS FOR ANYONE WHO CARES

------------------------------------------------------

Picked up the PSP in Glasgow yesterday, with the following games:

- Tony Hawks

- Ape Escape

- Lumines

- Wipeout Pure

My own little "First Impression PSP vs. First Impression DS". I will
readily admit, before I write anymore, I am a HUGE Nintendo fan, and my PS2
has been played twice since I bought it a year ago. Also worth noting, my
DS has had well over 100 hours played on it, the PSP well under 5

.
Saying all that, I going to try and be 100% unbiased and fair.

Elements I am looking at

- Overall Aesthetics

- Screen(s)

- Graphics

- Sound

- Control

- Costs

- Other capabilities

- Battery Life

- General thoughts on both systems

ASTHETICS

------------------------------------------------------

The PSP is one sexy beast. Slick & Stylish, an attention grabber. It
really has the edge when it comes to "wow factor". I would go as far as
saying there is nothing I would change about its visual appearance. The DS
on the other hand, is not sexy. Bulkier, silver casing (which I think is
getting old now), feels a little too "toy like" for its own good.

In short, the PSP looks grown up and sophisticated, where the DS looks
immature and a bit chunky. Or, the PSP is the cool guy at school, the DS
the fat kid in the corner...you get the point

Winner: Sony by a long shot. A bad move on Nintendo's part, if they had
focused just a little more on getting more into less space, and maybe making
the unit thinner when closed, and made the device more grown up looking (or
sexier), sales could have been even stronger. Because the PSP is SO MUCH
NICER LOOKING, it deserves two points.

PSP: 2

DS : 0

SCREENS

------------------------------------------------------

This is not about "two screens are better than one screen", I really just
want to look at the screen quality, as opposed to how they are used. Again,
the Sony PSP definitely has the upper hand. My first words when the chap
let me have a demo in store were "Wow, the screen is f*cking awsome", this
was with a red display asking for the date lol. The contrast is amazing,
the edges are sharp, with a serious lack of jaggies I might add, and the
games just look spectacular. There is no denying, this machine is going to
have the best looking games.

The DS also has two nice screens, however, it would be very, very nice, if
they matched the width and brightness of the PSP screen ;). They don't, so
they loose out big time. Saying that, it does have two screens, so gets a
point.

PSP: 3

DS : 1

GRAPHICS

------------------------------------------------------

I suppose like comparing the PS2 with the N64 in a sense. Also, the screens
make all the difference here too. If for example Ridge Racer PSP could be
seen on a DS screen, I do not think it would look anywhere near as
impressive. I wonder how Metroid Prime Hunters would look on the PSP
screen...

I am going to say the PSP has better graphics, based on the limited games I
have played. The screen quality, coupled with the fact that it is based on
a PS2 (instead of an N64 style technology), means it should allow for some
stunning looking games. The DS can have decent looking games, but they just
wont look as good on those screens.

PSP: 4

DS : 1

SOUND

------------------------------------------------------

I have played the PSP & DS in the following locations:

- Busy & Noisy restaurant

- Car on the motorway

- Quite room at home

Okay first things, the PSP can have fairly significant in game voice acting
as well as proper in game music (non midi, actual real songs), the DS I
think will struggle to have 30+ tracks of real music in with a game (Can it
have any Mp3 quality music in a game?).

To my surprise, the DS is quite a bit louder. I have checked the volume on
the PSP, it is up to the max, and yet when in the car on the motorway, or
the noisy restaurant, I really struggled to hear it. The DS on the other
hand can be heard, just a little louder.

When at home, I was having a game of Tony Hawks, whilst my son was sitting
playing Mario 64 mini games next to me on the couch. Mario really started
to piss me off, I could hear everything the Nintendo was doing over the PSP.
One important point, Tony hawks music is not as loud as its sound effects,
where as in Mario 64, the music is normally always loud in mini games. I
wonder if the position and size of the DS speaker vents are helping it gain
an edge?

Regardless, This issue slightly worries me

, Gamespot's review says the
PSP is louder than the DS, I would love to hear what other people think.

I awarding a point to the DS here for the volume, AND a point to the PSP for
its in game music and voice capabilities...

PSP: 5

DS : 2

Control

------------------------------------------------------

Well, this is where the units are really different. The PSP has the D Pad,
good looking see through shoulder buttons, and the PS2 style buttons on the
right, which are a decent size. It also has a cool little analogue "nipple"
which takes some getting used to, but is actually quite good in games.

The DS has the DPad, two shoulder buttons which don't look as good, but are
better to push, and four SNES style buttons on the right, but they are about
50% of the size of the snes buttons (too small). Also, no analogue stick.
If this was the end of the story, I would award a point to PSP without
question...however, the Stylus & Dual Screen ROCKS. This is a MAJOR plus
for Nintendo. The games that best take advantage of it so far are Yoshi
Touch & Go, Wario Ware Touched, Polaroium (one line), and Feel the Magic.
All four games are hugely addictive, and the touch control is flawless.

In Polarium you must DRAW across different coloured tiles to flip the,
(similar to Reversi), however, the idea is to create entire lengths of one
colour. This is very difficult, and VERY addictive, more so than Lumines I
would say, but a similar game. Drawing over the tiles and wiping out lots
of lines feels very satisfying.

The DS also has a microphone, which is put to great use in Yoshi Touch and
Go. The idea is to guide Yoshi by drawing clouds for him to run on. If you
want to clear the clouds, blow in the microphone, and they will dissipate.
This works VERY well.

There are also lots of mini games in Wario Ware and Feel the Magic which
make excellent use of the microphone. One level in feel the magic, you have
to blow at different strengths to send a boat to rescue your drowning
girlfriend, if you blow to hard, you will sail right past, two little and
you wont reach her.

This is not a hard call, I urge anyone who has not yet played the DS to go
out and demand a shot of:

Yoshi

Polarium

Wario Ware Touched

Feel the Magic

(In that order of preference)

Due to the substantial development opportunity and excellent realization of
the touch screen & stylus, I am giving the DS a well deserved 3 points here.
The PSP gets one, for its analogue stick.

PSP: 6

DS : 5

Costs:

------------------------------------------------------

The PSP is way too expensive, period. $250+ in the USA, the games are what,
$40+? Your getting a nice machine, but not without breaking the bank. The
DS is much more reasonably priced.

PSP: 6

DS : 6

Other Capabilities:

------------------------------------------------------

The PSP has a winning card here, the possibilities are endless. You can
watch movies & programs, listen to MP3's etc. The DS as a stand alone unit,
cannot.

PSP: 9

DS : 6

Battery Life:

------------------------------------------------------

Man, the battery on the PSP is poor compared with the DS. My DS goes for a
strong ten hours, the PSP not even half of that.

PSP: 9

DS : 7

General thoughts on both systems

------------------------------------------------------

Soooo, the scores on the doors, PSP 9, DS 7, however, from a pure gaming
perspective, you can knock three points off the PSP (other capabilities),
and it would be 7 for the DS and 6 for the PSP.

I have played the PSP for maybe four hours now, and it looks amazing, feels
really good to play, it is one awsome system...BUT, the DS in my opinion has
provided a far more fun console, with a LOT more potential for innovative
and unique games. Even with my PSP sitting in all its glory, I am CRAVING a
game of Yoshi Touch and Go, I just cannot get enough of this new touch
screen gaming style. The DS is not technically as great, but it just does
it for me. The PSP I can get on the big screen, its called a PS2. The DS,
I cant get that nowhere else, a simple idea, greatly implemented.

If I am to make any recommendation, it is for you to play both consoles in
store as extensively as possible. Especially try Yoshi Touch and Go, and
Polarium. I think those who are off put by the "uniqueness" of the DS may
come away pleasantly surprised. If on the other hand, you LOVE your PS2,
get a PSP and take your pride and joy with you.

I got both

If you have a spare bit of cash, do the same ;)

Sorry for my biggest rant and rave of late!!!

Regards,

Gary.

Poor English, Bad Spelling, Crap Structure, Flawed & Plain Wrong statements,
copyright GW.

PS - Lets not fight, I love both systems, and my opinions should be taken
with less than a pinch of salt!!!

FooAtari

2005-04-07, 5:56 pm

"G" <G@G.com> wrote in
news:5vO3e.2907$G8.292@text.news.blueyonder.co.uk:

quote:

> SONY PSP - VERY FIRST IMPRESSIONS FOR ANYONE WHO CARES
>
> ------------------------------------------------------
>
>
>
> Picked up the PSP in Glasgow yesterday, with the following games:
>
>
>
> - Tony Hawks
>
> - Ape Escape
>
> - Lumines
>
> - Wipeout Pure
>
>
>
> My own little "First Impression PSP vs. First Impression DS". I will
> readily admit, before I write anymore, I am a HUGE Nintendo fan, and
> my PS2 has been played twice since I bought it a year ago. Also worth
> noting, my DS has had well over 100 hours played on it, the PSP well
> under 5 . Saying all that, I going to try and be 100% unbiased and
> fair.
>
>
>
>
>
> Elements I am looking at
>
>
>
> - Overall Aesthetics
>
> - Screen(s)
>
> - Graphics
>
> - Sound
>
> - Control
>
> - Costs
>
> - Other capabilities
>
> - Battery Life
>
> - General thoughts on both systems
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> ASTHETICS
>
> ------------------------------------------------------
>
> The PSP is one sexy beast. Slick & Stylish, an attention grabber. It
> really has the edge when it comes to "wow factor". I would go as far
> as saying there is nothing I would change about its visual appearance.
> The DS on the other hand, is not sexy. Bulkier, silver casing (which
> I think is getting old now), feels a little too "toy like" for its own
> good.
>
>
>
> In short, the PSP looks grown up and sophisticated, where the DS looks
> immature and a bit chunky. Or, the PSP is the cool guy at school, the
> DS the fat kid in the corner...you get the point
>
>
>
> Winner: Sony by a long shot. A bad move on Nintendo's part, if they
> had focused just a little more on getting more into less space, and
> maybe making the unit thinner when closed, and made the device more
> grown up looking (or sexier), sales could have been even stronger.
> Because the PSP is SO MUCH NICER LOOKING, it deserves two points.
>
>
>
> PSP: 2
>
> DS : 0
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> SCREENS
>
> ------------------------------------------------------
>
> This is not about "two screens are better than one screen", I really
> just want to look at the screen quality, as opposed to how they are
> used. Again, the Sony PSP definitely has the upper hand. My first
> words when the chap let me have a demo in store were "Wow, the screen
> is f*cking awsome", this was with a red display asking for the date
> lol. The contrast is amazing, the edges are sharp, with a serious
> lack of jaggies I might add, and the games just look spectacular.
> There is no denying, this machine is going to have the best looking
> games.
>
>
>
> The DS also has two nice screens, however, it would be very, very
> nice, if they matched the width and brightness of the PSP screen ;).
> They don't, so they loose out big time. Saying that, it does have two
> screens, so gets a point.
>
>
>
> PSP: 3
>
> DS : 1
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> GRAPHICS
>
> ------------------------------------------------------
>
> I suppose like comparing the PS2 with the N64 in a sense. Also, the
> screens make all the difference here too. If for example Ridge Racer
> PSP could be seen on a DS screen, I do not think it would look
> anywhere near as impressive. I wonder how Metroid Prime Hunters would
> look on the PSP screen...
>
>
>
> I am going to say the PSP has better graphics, based on the limited
> games I have played. The screen quality, coupled with the fact that
> it is based on a PS2 (instead of an N64 style technology), means it
> should allow for some stunning looking games. The DS can have decent
> looking games, but they just wont look as good on those screens.
>
>
>
> PSP: 4
>
> DS : 1
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> SOUND
>
> ------------------------------------------------------
>
> I have played the PSP & DS in the following locations:
>
> - Busy & Noisy restaurant
>
> - Car on the motorway
>
> - Quite room at home
>
>
>
> Okay first things, the PSP can have fairly significant in game voice
> acting as well as proper in game music (non midi, actual real songs),
> the DS I think will struggle to have 30+ tracks of real music in with
> a game (Can it have any Mp3 quality music in a game?).
>
>
>
> To my surprise, the DS is quite a bit louder. I have checked the
> volume on the PSP, it is up to the max, and yet when in the car on the
> motorway, or the noisy restaurant, I really struggled to hear it. The
> DS on the other hand can be heard, just a little louder.
>
>
>
> When at home, I was having a game of Tony Hawks, whilst my son was
> sitting playing Mario 64 mini games next to me on the couch. Mario
> really started to piss me off, I could hear everything the Nintendo
> was doing over the PSP. One important point, Tony hawks music is not
> as loud as its sound effects, where as in Mario 64, the music is
> normally always loud in mini games. I wonder if the position and size
> of the DS speaker vents are helping it gain an edge?
>
>
>
> Regardless, This issue slightly worries me , Gamespot's review says
> the PSP is louder than the DS, I would love to hear what other people
> think.
>
>
>
> I awarding a point to the DS here for the volume, AND a point to the
> PSP for its in game music and voice capabilities...
>
>
>
> PSP: 5
>
> DS : 2
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> Control
>
> ------------------------------------------------------
>
> Well, this is where the units are really different. The PSP has the D
> Pad, good looking see through shoulder buttons, and the PS2 style
> buttons on the right, which are a decent size. It also has a cool
> little analogue "nipple" which takes some getting used to, but is
> actually quite good in games.
>
>
>
> The DS has the DPad, two shoulder buttons which don't look as good,
> but are better to push, and four SNES style buttons on the right, but
> they are about 50% of the size of the snes buttons (too small). Also,
> no analogue stick. If this was the end of the story, I would award a
> point to PSP without question...however, the Stylus & Dual Screen
> ROCKS. This is a MAJOR plus for Nintendo. The games that best take
> advantage of it so far are Yoshi Touch & Go, Wario Ware Touched,
> Polaroium (one line), and Feel the Magic. All four games are hugely
> addictive, and the touch control is flawless.
>
>
>
> In Polarium you must DRAW across different coloured tiles to flip the,
> (similar to Reversi), however, the idea is to create entire lengths of
> one colour. This is very difficult, and VERY addictive, more so than
> Lumines I would say, but a similar game. Drawing over the tiles and
> wiping out lots of lines feels very satisfying.
>
>
>
> The DS also has a microphone, which is put to great use in Yoshi Touch
> and Go. The idea is to guide Yoshi by drawing clouds for him to run
> on. If you want to clear the clouds, blow in the microphone, and they
> will dissipate. This works VERY well.
>
>
> There are also lots of mini games in Wario Ware and Feel the Magic
> which make excellent use of the microphone. One level in feel the
> magic, you have to blow at different strengths to send a boat to
> rescue your drowning girlfriend, if you blow to hard, you will sail
> right past, two little and you wont reach her.
>
>
>
> This is not a hard call, I urge anyone who has not yet played the DS
> to go out and demand a shot of:
>
> Yoshi
>
> Polarium
>
> Wario Ware Touched
>
> Feel the Magic
>
> (In that order of preference)
>
>
>
> Due to the substantial development opportunity and excellent
> realization of the touch screen & stylus, I am giving the DS a well
> deserved 3 points here. The PSP gets one, for its analogue stick.
>
>
>
> PSP: 6
>
> DS : 5
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> Costs:
>
> ------------------------------------------------------
>
> The PSP is way too expensive, period. $250+ in the USA, the games are
> what, $40+? Your getting a nice machine, but not without breaking the
> bank. The DS is much more reasonably priced.
>
>
>
> PSP: 6
>
> DS : 6
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> Other Capabilities:
>
> ------------------------------------------------------
>
> The PSP has a winning card here, the possibilities are endless. You
> can watch movies & programs, listen to MP3's etc. The DS as a stand
> alone unit, cannot.
>
>
>
> PSP: 9
>
> DS : 6
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> Battery Life:
>
> ------------------------------------------------------
>
> Man, the battery on the PSP is poor compared with the DS. My DS goes
> for a strong ten hours, the PSP not even half of that.
>
>
>
> PSP: 9
>
> DS : 7
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> General thoughts on both systems
>
> ------------------------------------------------------
>
> Soooo, the scores on the doors, PSP 9, DS 7, however, from a pure
> gaming perspective, you can knock three points off the PSP (other
> capabilities), and it would be 7 for the DS and 6 for the PSP.
>
>
>
> I have played the PSP for maybe four hours now, and it looks amazing,
> feels really good to play, it is one awsome system...BUT, the DS in my
> opinion has provided a far more fun console, with a LOT more potential
> for innovative and unique games. Even with my PSP sitting in all its
> glory, I am CRAVING a game of Yoshi Touch and Go, I just cannot get
> enough of this new touch screen gaming style. The DS is not
> technically as great, but it just does it for me. The PSP I can get
> on the big screen, its called a PS2. The DS, I cant get that nowhere
> else, a simple idea, greatly implemented.
>
>
>
> If I am to make any recommendation, it is for you to play both
> consoles in store as extensively as possible. Especially try Yoshi
> Touch and Go, and Polarium. I think those who are off put by the
> "uniqueness" of the DS may come away pleasantly surprised. If on the
> other hand, you LOVE your PS2, get a PSP and take your pride and joy
> with you.
>
>
>
> I got both If you have a spare bit of cash, do the same ;)
>
>
>
> Sorry for my biggest rant and rave of late!!!
>
>
>
> Regards,
>
>
>
> Gary.
>
> Poor English, Bad Spelling, Crap Structure, Flawed & Plain Wrong
> statements, copyright GW.
>
>
>
>
>
> PS - Lets not fight, I love both systems, and my opinions should be
> taken with less than a pinch of salt!!!
>
>

Quite an interesting review. A couple of points for me. I have an MP3
player that stores many many more songs than the PSP will so that
function is not really an issue to me. Also the whole movies thing, Im
sure as hell not going to buy the same film twice, and I really cant
justify buying a film for the PSP over a wide screen TV and DVD player.

I feel here the PSP could end up being a jack of all trades but master of
none.

One thing you didn't consider and which to me is VERY important is
portability. How big are the UMD's compared to Nintendos tiny
cartridges, I can carry 9 games in a small box. Also the DS is very very
sturdy and can take the knocks and bangs of gaming on the go, and the the
screens are always protected when closed. I have heard the PSP is a bit
more fragile. And I also dont need to cary memory cards about with me.
I think these issues are very important for a portable gaming device.

--
Im too young for this s**t!

Live GamerTag - FooAtari

My games collection and Live games:
http://www.ajrparkst.f2s.com/allie/index.htm

www.revs.tv - Motorsport Internet TV.

2005-04-07, 5:56 pm

> Quite an interesting review. A couple of points for me. I have an MP3

quote:

> player that stores many many more songs than the PSP will so that
> function is not really an issue to me. Also the whole movies thing, Im
> sure as hell not going to buy the same film twice, and I really cant
> justify buying a film for the PSP over a wide screen TV and DVD player.

Agree that many people will feel this way.

quote:

> I feel here the PSP could end up being a jack of all trades but master of
> none.

I dont know, I think it can definately master gaming "in the same way" that
the PS2 can.

quote:

> One thing you didn't consider and which to me is VERY important is
> portability. How big are the UMD's compared to Nintendos tiny
> cartridges, I can carry 9 games in a small box.

They are bigger, and much more fragile, but they hold shitloads more data I
think. Someone will come up with a case for carrying mass games for the PSP
and DS, not an issue. The fragility of the actual discs however may become
an issue, I read that games can be permanently XXXXed by a spec of dust,
with no warrenty covering this. I think the pro's of the bigger space, and
better voice / music, outwiegh the few cons.

Also the DS is very very

quote:

> sturdy and can take the knocks and bangs of gaming on the go, and the the
> screens are always protected when closed. I have heard the PSP is a bit
> more fragile. And I also dont need to cary memory cards about with me.
> I think these issues are very important for a portable gaming device.

I would definately not suggest dropping either unit, they are both still
expensive. The PSP screen needs a protecter, agreed.

Vitani

2005-04-07, 5:56 pm

G wrote:

quote:

> SONY PSP - VERY FIRST IMPRESSIONS FOR ANYONE WHO CARES
>
> <snip>

Good comparision, interesting read. Thanks-you

Boody Bandit

2005-04-07, 5:56 pm

"FooAtari" <alistair_fraser81REMOVE@THISyahoo.co.uk> wrote in message
news:Xns962D748DDF7D8alistairfraser81REMO@194.106.32.13...

quote:

>
> Quite an interesting review. A couple of points for me. I have an MP3
> player that stores many many more songs than the PSP will so that
> function is not really an issue to me. Also the whole movies thing, Im
> sure as hell not going to buy the same film twice, and I really cant
> justify buying a film for the PSP over a wide screen TV and DVD player.
>
> I feel here the PSP could end up being a jack of all trades but master of
> none.

It will be the "master of the most amazing graphics ever seen on a
handheld".

Annette

2005-04-07, 5:56 pm

> It will be the "master of the most amazing graphics ever seen on a

quote:

> handheld".

Remember graphics aren't everything

You are still correct though, it
dominates the graphics at the moment. The GBA2 if properly designed may
pack a nioce punch, but thats still a looooooooong time away............

Annette

2005-04-07, 5:56 pm

Oh, a few things I forgot to mention.

PSP gets 2 points for online multiplayer support
DS get 2 points for lack of load times

I know I would rather have the MP support ;)

G.
PS - Ignore the name (Annette), on Mum's PC

Paul Evans

2005-04-07, 5:56 pm

Annette wrote:

quote:

> Oh, a few things I forgot to mention.
>
> PSP gets 2 points for online multiplayer support
> DS get 2 points for lack of load times
>
> I know I would rather have the MP support ;)
>

I think Nintendo will be offering online MP support too shortly...

Doesn't really matter to me though - I'm a sad lonely git who prefers
single-player games ;-)

Paul.

Paul Dunn

2005-04-07, 5:56 pm

Annette wrote:

quote:

>
>
> Remember graphics aren't everything

Indeed. I'm still waiting for a GBA port of nethack :-)

D.

Eddy

2005-04-07, 5:56 pm

Annette wrote:

quote:

> Oh, a few things I forgot to mention.
>
> PSP gets 2 points for online multiplayer support
> DS get 2 points for lack of load times
>
> I know I would rather have the MP support ;)
>
> G.
> PS - Ignore the name (Annette), on Mum's PC
>
>

Nintendo have already said they will be having Free online MP support.

Ed

2005-04-07, 5:56 pm

> Nintendo have already said they will be having Free online MP support.

quote:

>
> Ed

Good on them too, just may prove to be too little too late. They really
need to speed things up instead of making a complete cock up, and trying to
fix later. DS should be online NOW.

G.

Eric

2005-04-07, 5:56 pm

"G" wrote in message

quote:

> SONY PSP - VERY FIRST IMPRESSIONS FOR ANYONE WHO CARES

Hi,

Great objective and informative post. I know Nintendo keeps saying that the
DS isn't in "competition" with the PSP, but its difficult to see how it
isn't.

I have a DS and will be picking up a PSP shortly. I'm very excited about
the wireless online capabilities of both handhelds. There has been a lot of
confusion regarding how the DS will make use of online wireless capability,
but the most recent statements by Nintendo suggests that the DS will have
games supporting standard TCP/IP over 802.11b by fourth quarter. It also
looks like Nintendo will be setting up an internet "front end" (like "XBox
Live") to connect online players -- and this service will be free. With the
PSP, I'm assuming that each online game will have it's own independent
online resources (i.e., online PS2 versus XBox Live)? Good and bad points
for each approach. The centralized approach can provide more "quality
assurance", but we are at the mercy of the service. Should it be
discontinued, then we are dead in the water with all games. (Until, of
course, someone figures out how to setup their own game server and direct
the game to it.)

Online wireless (802.11b) capability, in my opinion, is the most
revolutionary thing that both the PSP/DS have going for it in the long term.
The infrastrucure, pretty much, already exists to support it as many people
have wireless acess points in their home and also can find them easily out
in public. I can't wait to play, say, "Mario Kart DS" online through my
wireless AP. Possibilities with wireless are endless, far beyond even
games. Web browsing, emailing, instant messaging, and even streaming MP3's
out in public from a file server back at your house (I do this all the time
with a PDA) are more than possible. Very exciting stuff lays ahead.

The DS's price point is certaintly an advantage over the PSP. If the above
applications (web, email, IM, ect) were already available for the DS, I bet
it would be attracting consumers that weren't considering a gaming handheld,
but are overall gadget freaks. For a measly $150, something capable of all
that is very cool. The PSP, like you said, is definetly "sexier" though.
Played one the other day and, likewise, found the screen to be beautiful.
Can't wait to pick one up after next pay day.

Cheers!
-Eric

Miles Bader

2005-04-07, 5:56 pm

"Annette" <gimisty_blue@blueyonder.co.uk> writes:

quote:

> Remember graphics aren't everything You are still correct though, it
> dominates the graphics at the moment.

Yeah; the PSP's graphics & screen are kewl, but not enough to compensate
for its other faults.

I don't think it's necessary for the GBA2 to beat it on graphics either,
just be "good enough" graphically while being better in other important
ways (size, form-factor, controls, battery-life, cost, etc).

What I personally want is something more or less like the GBA-SP, with:

* Higher-res screen, maybe about 50% wider than the GBA (I like the wide
format the PSP uses, but I think if anything it's a little _too_ big).

* Keep the size small (e.g. make the screen bezel as narrow as possible),
and certainly don't have acres of empty plastic like the DS. The SP is
again a good model, but even it wasted space around the screen.

* Analogue controller, hopefully better designed than the PSP's (Nintendo
is traditionally very good at designing controls, so I'm not so worried
here). A few more right-hand buttons would be cool ala the DS.

* DS-style touch-screen support.

[Either miniscule cartridges or PSP-style disks seem fine, whichever they
can make work. Certainly disks present many technical problems (and
encourage lazy developers to make bloated games with too much FMV), but
maybe the reduced production cost is worth it?]

-Miles
--
$B<+$i$r6u$K$7$F!"?4$r3+$/;~!"F;$O3+$+$l$k(B

Jacob Oost

2005-04-07, 5:56 pm

G wrote:

quote:

> If I am to make any recommendation, it is for you to play both consoles in
> store as extensively as possible. Especially try Yoshi Touch and Go, and
> Polarium. I think those who are off put by the "uniqueness" of the DS may
> come away pleasantly surprised. If on the other hand, you LOVE your PS2,
> get a PSP and take your pride and joy with you.

My nearby Wal-Mart has a DS for you to try. Unfortunately the stylus
screen is heavily scratched and does not work. I'm worried about that
happening with the DS.

--

----- BEGIN GEEK CODE BLOCK -----
Version 3.1
GAT d? !s !a C++++ UL+ P L++ E- W+ N+ o-- K- w--
O- !M !V PS-- PE++ Y+ PGP- t++>++++* 5? !X-- R- tv b++ DI+ D++
G e !h !r !y
...... END GEEK CODE BLOCK ----

Smart Feet

2005-04-07, 5:56 pm

Jacob Oost wrote:

quote:

> G wrote:
>
>
>
> My nearby Wal-Mart has a DS for you to try. Unfortunately the stylus
> screen is heavily scratched and does not work. I'm worried about that
> happening with the DS.
>

All video game demo units everywhere get destroyed very quickly.

2005-04-07, 5:56 pm

quote:

>"Annette" <gimisty_blue@blueyonder.co.uk> writes:
>
>Yeah; the PSP's graphics & screen are kewl, but not enough to compensate
>for its other faults.

I would say after having it a few days now, there are no faults I have
noticed, it does what is should do, allows me to play good games.

quote:

>What I personally want is something more or less like the GBA-SP, with:
>
> * Higher-res screen, maybe about 50% wider than the GBA (I like the wide
> format the PSP uses, but I think if anything it's a little _too_ big).

I feel many will disagree, the screen is awsome on the PSP. Its a
wonderful size.

2005-04-07, 5:56 pm

>My nearby Wal-Mart has a DS for you to try. Unfortunately the stylus

quote:

>screen is heavily scratched and does not work. I'm worried about that
>happening with the DS.

I have hammared my DS, it is perfect. The lower screen has been
designed very, very well.

Remember if your lower screen were to pack in, Nintendo would replace
for you. Not sure about Walmart, but they own Asda in the UK, and
Asda too offer a good returns service.

G.

Beck

2005-04-07, 5:56 pm

"Miles Bader" <miles@gnu.org> wrote in message
news:87ll7z8kl4.fsf@tc-1-100.kawasaki.gol.ne.jp...

quote:

> "Annette" <gimisty_blue@blueyonder.co.uk> writes:
>
> Yeah; the PSP's graphics & screen are kewl, but not enough to compensate
> for its other faults.

What faults? Mine is fine (at the moment) :-)

Miles Bader

2005-04-07, 5:56 pm

"Beck" <invalid@invalid.invalid> writes:

quote:

>
> What faults? Mine is fine (at the moment) :-)

Well:

* Too heavy
* Too big (note that I think the DS is too big too :-)
* Too expensive
* Clunky controls
* Short battery life
* Fragile
* "requires a case" design

Of course many of these things are subjective -- if you always play
sitting on your couch, you may not care about battery life and lack of
"portability features".

-Miles
--
Somebody has to do something, and it's just incredibly pathetic that it
has to be us. -- Jerry Garcia

2005-04-07, 5:56 pm

> * Too heavy

Not true

quote:

> * Too big (note that I think the DS is too big too :-)

Not true, on either system

quote:

> * Too expensive

Relative to what? The DS? Or the IPOD? A PDA? A top end mobile
phone? Its a little expensive, but not hugely expensive.

quote:

> * Clunky controls

Nope.

quote:

> * Short battery life

Agree

quote:

> * Fragile

Well, thats like saying "I was going to buy the Ferarri, but the
Renault Megane just doesnt smash up as bad in a crash"

quote:

> * "requires a case" design

No it doesnt.

quote:

>Of course many of these things are subjective -- if you always play
>sitting on your couch, you may not care about battery life and lack of
>"portability features".

Exactly

However, I travel a lot with both systems in my backpack,
no problems.

Paul Dunn

2005-04-07, 5:56 pm

G wrote:

quote:

>
> Not true, on either system

Depends on how you define "big". They're certainly a lot more bulky than my
GBA for lugging around - and the overall size/design has prevented me from
considering one. Good thing is that the GBA was big and bulky (and had the
worst control layout I've used since the Sega GameGear) but Nintendo fixed
pretty much all that in the GBA. I'm hoping that the DS gets a re-design in
a similar fashion - it will be a viable platform for *me*.

Others may disagree

Beck

2005-04-07, 5:56 pm

"Paul Dunn" <paul.dunn4@ntlworld.com> wrote in message
news:pdw4e.10966$vv2.2135@newsfe2-gui.ntli.net...

quote:

> Depends on how you define "big". They're certainly a lot more bulky than
> my GBA for lugging around - and the overall size/design has prevented me
> from considering one. Good thing is that the GBA was big and bulky (and
> had the worst control layout I've used since the Sega GameGear) but
> Nintendo fixed pretty much all that in the GBA. I'm hoping that the DS
> gets a re-design in a similar fashion - it will be a viable platform for
> *me*.
>
> Others may disagree

Having both, I would say they are both a bit too big for the average pocket.
Or at least too big for my pockets. GBA SP would fit nicely in a back
pocket of jeans, but the PSP or DS won't. Then again people have to
sacrifice things. They want bigger and better screens so something has to
give. Perhaps if I bought myself those extremely baggy jeans that skate
boarders use then I won't have a problem :-)

Miles Bader

2005-04-07, 5:56 pm

"Paul Dunn" <paul.dunn4@ntlworld.com> writes:

quote:

>
> Depends on how you define "big". They're certainly a lot more bulky
> than my GBA for lugging around - and the overall size/design has
> prevented me from considering one. Good thing is that the GBA was big
> and bulky (and had the worst control layout I've used since the Sega
> GameGear) but Nintendo fixed pretty much all that in the GBA [SP].

Yeah, I agree 100% with you; I was annoyed by the size of the original
GBA too (and am by the DS and PSP). It's not that it was too big/heavy
to fit in my bag in absolute terms, but it was large enough that I'd
regularly think twice about carrying it around; together with other
stuff, it often just seemed a little too much.

The GBA SP on the other hand is so small that most of the time I can
just leave in there with no thought. It's starting to border on
cellphone "carry it by default" territory, and this is a Good Thing.

Again, obviously all of this stuff is subjective -- G's not concerned,
and Sony's banking on customers that aren't overly bothered by the size
and weight -- but looking at the trends of other markets
(e.g. cellphones and digital cameras) there's some evidence that
svelteness is a big selling point.

-Miles
--
I'm beginning to think that life is just one long Yoko Ono album; no rhyme
or reason, just a lot of incoherent shrieks and then it's over. --Ian Wolff

FooAtari

2005-04-07, 5:56 pm

"G" <G@G.com> wrote in
news:5vO3e.2907$G8.292@text.news.blueyonder.co.uk:

quote:

> SONY PSP - VERY FIRST IMPRESSIONS FOR ANYONE WHO CARES
>
> ------------------------------------------------------
>
>
>
> Picked up the PSP in Glasgow yesterday, with the following games:
>
>
>
> - Tony Hawks
>
> - Ape Escape
>
> - Lumines
>
> - Wipeout Pure
>
>
>
> My own little "First Impression PSP vs. First Impression DS". I will
> readily admit, before I write anymore, I am a HUGE Nintendo fan, and
> my PS2 has been played twice since I bought it a year ago. Also worth
> noting, my DS has had well over 100 hours played on it, the PSP well
> under 5 . Saying all that, I going to try and be 100% unbiased and
> fair.
>
>
>
>
>
> Elements I am looking at
>
>
>
> - Overall Aesthetics
>
> - Screen(s)
>
> - Graphics
>
> - Sound
>
> - Control
>
> - Costs
>
> - Other capabilities
>
> - Battery Life
>
> - General thoughts on both systems
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> ASTHETICS
>
> ------------------------------------------------------
>
> The PSP is one sexy beast. Slick & Stylish, an attention grabber. It
> really has the edge when it comes to "wow factor". I would go as far
> as saying there is nothing I would change about its visual appearance.
> The DS on the other hand, is not sexy. Bulkier, silver casing (which
> I think is getting old now), feels a little too "toy like" for its own
> good.
>
>
>
> In short, the PSP looks grown up and sophisticated, where the DS looks
> immature and a bit chunky. Or, the PSP is the cool guy at school, the
> DS the fat kid in the corner...you get the point
>
>
>
> Winner: Sony by a long shot. A bad move on Nintendo's part, if they
> had focused just a little more on getting more into less space, and
> maybe making the unit thinner when closed, and made the device more
> grown up looking (or sexier), sales could have been even stronger.
> Because the PSP is SO MUCH NICER LOOKING, it deserves two points.
>
>
>
> PSP: 2
>
> DS : 0
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> SCREENS
>
> ------------------------------------------------------
>
> This is not about "two screens are better than one screen", I really
> just want to look at the screen quality, as opposed to how they are
> used. Again, the Sony PSP definitely has the upper hand. My first
> words when the chap let me have a demo in store were "Wow, the screen
> is f*cking awsome", this was with a red display asking for the date
> lol. The contrast is amazing, the edges are sharp, with a serious
> lack of jaggies I might add, and the games just look spectacular.
> There is no denying, this machine is going to have the best looking
> games.
>
>
>
> The DS also has two nice screens, however, it would be very, very
> nice, if they matched the width and brightness of the PSP screen ;).
> They don't, so they loose out big time. Saying that, it does have two
> screens, so gets a point.
>
>
>
> PSP: 3
>
> DS : 1
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> GRAPHICS
>
> ------------------------------------------------------
>
> I suppose like comparing the PS2 with the N64 in a sense. Also, the
> screens make all the difference here too. If for example Ridge Racer
> PSP could be seen on a DS screen, I do not think it would look
> anywhere near as impressive. I wonder how Metroid Prime Hunters would
> look on the PSP screen...
>
>
>
> I am going to say the PSP has better graphics, based on the limited
> games I have played. The screen quality, coupled with the fact that
> it is based on a PS2 (instead of an N64 style technology), means it
> should allow for some stunning looking games. The DS can have decent
> looking games, but they just wont look as good on those screens.
>
>
>
> PSP: 4
>
> DS : 1
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> SOUND
>
> ------------------------------------------------------
>
> I have played the PSP & DS in the following locations:
>
> - Busy & Noisy restaurant
>
> - Car on the motorway
>
> - Quite room at home
>
>
>
> Okay first things, the PSP can have fairly significant in game voice
> acting as well as proper in game music (non midi, actual real songs),
> the DS I think will struggle to have 30+ tracks of real music in with
> a game (Can it have any Mp3 quality music in a game?).
>
>
>
> To my surprise, the DS is quite a bit louder. I have checked the
> volume on the PSP, it is up to the max, and yet when in the car on the
> motorway, or the noisy restaurant, I really struggled to hear it. The
> DS on the other hand can be heard, just a little louder.
>
>
>
> When at home, I was having a game of Tony Hawks, whilst my son was
> sitting playing Mario 64 mini games next to me on the couch. Mario
> really started to piss me off, I could hear everything the Nintendo
> was doing over the PSP. One important point, Tony hawks music is not
> as loud as its sound effects, where as in Mario 64, the music is
> normally always loud in mini games. I wonder if the position and size
> of the DS speaker vents are helping it gain an edge?
>
>
>
> Regardless, This issue slightly worries me , Gamespot's review says
> the PSP is louder than the DS, I would love to hear what other people
> think.
>
>
>
> I awarding a point to the DS here for the volume, AND a point to the
> PSP for its in game music and voice capabilities...
>
>
>
> PSP: 5
>
> DS : 2
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> Control
>
> ------------------------------------------------------
>
> Well, this is where the units are really different. The PSP has the D
> Pad, good looking see through shoulder buttons, and the PS2 style
> buttons on the right, which are a decent size. It also has a cool
> little analogue "nipple" which takes some getting used to, but is
> actually quite good in games.
>
>
>
> The DS has the DPad, two shoulder buttons which don't look as good,
> but are better to push, and four SNES style buttons on the right, but
> they are about 50% of the size of the snes buttons (too small). Also,
> no analogue stick. If this was the end of the story, I would award a
> point to PSP without question...however, the Stylus & Dual Screen
> ROCKS. This is a MAJOR plus for Nintendo. The games that best take
> advantage of it so far are Yoshi Touch & Go, Wario Ware Touched,
> Polaroium (one line), and Feel the Magic. All four games are hugely
> addictive, and the touch control is flawless.
>
>
>
> In Polarium you must DRAW across different coloured tiles to flip the,
> (similar to Reversi), however, the idea is to create entire lengths of
> one colour. This is very difficult, and VERY addictive, more so than
> Lumines I would say, but a similar game. Drawing over the tiles and
> wiping out lots of lines feels very satisfying.
>
>
>
> The DS also has a microphone, which is put to great use in Yoshi Touch
> and Go. The idea is to guide Yoshi by drawing clouds for him to run
> on. If you want to clear the clouds, blow in the microphone, and they
> will dissipate. This works VERY well.
>
>
> There are also lots of mini games in Wario Ware and Feel the Magic
> which make excellent use of the microphone. One level in feel the
> magic, you have to blow at different strengths to send a boat to
> rescue your drowning girlfriend, if you blow to hard, you will sail
> right past, two little and you wont reach her.
>
>
>
> This is not a hard call, I urge anyone who has not yet played the DS
> to go out and demand a shot of:
>
> Yoshi
>
> Polarium
>
> Wario Ware Touched
>
> Feel the Magic
>
> (In that order of preference)
>
>
>
> Due to the substantial development opportunity and excellent
> realization of the touch screen & stylus, I am giving the DS a well
> deserved 3 points here. The PSP gets one, for its analogue stick.
>
>
>
> PSP: 6
>
> DS : 5
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> Costs:
>
> ------------------------------------------------------
>
> The PSP is way too expensive, period. $250+ in the USA, the games are
> what, $40+? Your getting a nice machine, but not without breaking the
> bank. The DS is much more reasonably priced.
>
>
>
> PSP: 6
>
> DS : 6
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> Other Capabilities:
>
> ------------------------------------------------------
>
> The PSP has a winning card here, the possibilities are endless. You
> can watch movies & programs, listen to MP3's etc. The DS as a stand
> alone unit, cannot.
>
>
>
> PSP: 9
>
> DS : 6
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> Battery Life:
>
> ------------------------------------------------------
>
> Man, the battery on the PSP is poor compared with the DS. My DS goes
> for a strong ten hours, the PSP not even half of that.
>
>
>
> PSP: 9
>
> DS : 7
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> General thoughts on both systems
>
> ------------------------------------------------------
>
> Soooo, the scores on the doors, PSP 9, DS 7, however, from a pure
> gaming perspective, you can knock three points off the PSP (other
> capabilities), and it would be 7 for the DS and 6 for the PSP.
>
>
>
> I have played the PSP for maybe four hours now, and it looks amazing,
> feels really good to play, it is one awsome system...BUT, the DS in my
> opinion has provided a far more fun console, with a LOT more potential
> for innovative and unique games. Even with my PSP sitting in all its
> glory, I am CRAVING a game of Yoshi Touch and Go, I just cannot get
> enough of this new touch screen gaming style. The DS is not
> technically as great, but it just does it for me. The PSP I can get
> on the big screen, its called a PS2. The DS, I cant get that nowhere
> else, a simple idea, greatly implemented.
>
>
>
> If I am to make any recommendation, it is for you to play both
> consoles in store as extensively as possible. Especially try Yoshi
> Touch and Go, and Polarium. I think those who are off put by the
> "uniqueness" of the DS may come away pleasantly surprised. If on the
> other hand, you LOVE your PS2, get a PSP and take your pride and joy
> with you.
>
>
>
> I got both If you have a spare bit of cash, do the same ;)
>
>
>
> Sorry for my biggest rant and rave of late!!!
>
>
>
> Regards,
>
>
>
> Gary.
>
> Poor English, Bad Spelling, Crap Structure, Flawed & Plain Wrong
> statements, copyright GW.
>
>
>
>
>
> PS - Lets not fight, I love both systems, and my opinions should be
> taken with less than a pinch of salt!!!
>
>

manfatto

2005-04-07, 5:57 pm

Hi Just like to say that whilst I agree with most of what was said. I do
think the PSP is too heavy for my inside pocket - not rucksack - and it
was the first thing I noticed when I picked it up. I also think that the
build quality is quite poor. Some of the buttons rock and I find the
analogue joytstick to be pretty crap when compared to a normal one and
quite sticky, I prefer to play with the d pad. I haven't had any
problems with dodgy x buttons though.

On the Ds I find the buttons too small - In fact I wish they were on the
top screen as that's where my fingers fall naturally. And the back digs
into my hand a bit. It looks ugly compared to the psp.

I prefer the games on the DS by miles - perfect for travel. I'm not sure
if brilliant 3d graphics on a handheld are really the thing when your
being knocked around on the train. The games are sound on the PSP just
things I've seen before.

Two player Yoshi is one of the best things ever by the way.

D

G wrote:

quote:

>
>
> Not true
>
>
>
>
>
> Not true, on either system
>
>
>
>
> Relative to what? The DS? Or the IPOD? A PDA? A top end mobile
> phone? Its a little expensive, but not hugely expensive.
>
>
>
>
> Nope.
>
>
>
>
> Agree
>
>
>
>
> Well, thats like saying "I was going to buy the Ferarri, but the
> Renault Megane just doesnt smash up as bad in a crash"
>
>
>
>
> No it doesnt.
>
>
>
>
>
> Exactly However, I travel a lot with both systems in my backpack,
> no problems.

Annette

2005-04-07, 5:57 pm

> It will be the "master of the most amazing graphics ever seen on a

quote:

> handheld".

Remember graphics aren't everything

You are still correct though, it
dominates the graphics at the moment. The GBA2 if properly designed may
pack a nioce punch, but thats still a looooooooong time away............

Boody Bandit

2005-04-07, 5:57 pm

"FooAtari" <alistair_fraser81REMOVE@THISyahoo.co.uk> wrote in message
news:Xns962D748DDF7D8alistairfraser81REMO@194.106.32.13...

quote:

>
> Quite an interesting review. A couple of points for me. I have an MP3
> player that stores many many more songs than the PSP will so that
> function is not really an issue to me. Also the whole movies thing, Im
> sure as hell not going to buy the same film twice, and I really cant
> justify buying a film for the PSP over a wide screen TV and DVD player.
>
> I feel here the PSP could end up being a jack of all trades but master of
> none.

It will be the "master of the most amazing graphics ever seen on a
handheld".

Paul Dunn

2005-04-07, 5:57 pm

Annette wrote:

quote:

>
>
> Remember graphics aren't everything

Indeed. I'm still waiting for a GBA port of nethack :-)

D.

Paul Dunn

2005-04-07, 5:57 pm

manfatto wrote:

quote:

> Hi Just like to say that whilst I agree with most of what was said. I
> do think the PSP is too heavy for my inside pocket - not rucksack -
> and it was the first thing I noticed when I picked it up. I also
> think that the build quality is quite poor. Some of the buttons rock
> and I find the analogue joytstick to be pretty crap when compared to
> a normal one and quite sticky, I prefer to play with the d pad. I
> haven't had any problems with dodgy x buttons though.
>
> On the Ds I find the buttons too small - In fact I wish they were on
> the top screen as that's where my fingers fall naturally. And the
> back digs into my hand a bit. It looks ugly compared to the psp.

Just out of curiosity, can anyone tell me what the DPad on the DS is like
for prolonged use?

My GBA-SP's DPad is nowhere near as good as the original GB - which was much
more solid and had much more positive feedback. In contrast, the GBA-SP's
feels a tad too "low", and too squashy, which results in more than a couple
of diagonal moves not being read.

What's the DS like? Same type of D-Pad?

D.

Beck

2005-04-07, 5:57 pm

"Paul Dunn" <paul.dunn4@ntlworld.com> wrote in message
news:xaa5e.917$c4.318@newsfe3-win.ntli.net...

quote:

> manfatto wrote:
>
> Just out of curiosity, can anyone tell me what the DPad on the DS is like
> for prolonged use?
>
> My GBA-SP's DPad is nowhere near as good as the original GB - which was
> much more solid and had much more positive feedback. In contrast, the
> GBA-SP's feels a tad too "low", and too squashy, which results in more
> than a couple of diagonal moves not being read.
>
> What's the DS like? Same type of D-Pad?

Same as the PSP - Painful. I find both to be quite painful to use after 20
minutes or so, depending on the games. DS pad looks just like the GBA pad
(maybe slightly bigger)

Miles Bader

2005-04-07, 9:46 pm

"Beck" <invalid@invalid.invalid> writes:

quote:

> Same as the PSP - Painful. I find both to be quite painful to use after 20
> minutes or so, depending on the games.

WTF is it with controls anyway? It seems that Sony and MS obsess endlessly
over graphics, but spend little time and effort in getting the controls
comfortable and usable. Maybe MS has some excuse in that the xbox was
largely a rush job, and it was their first console; hopefully they'll spend
more effort on the xbox2.

Nintendo tried harder (whether you like the results or not) with the N64
and GC controllers, but based on what I've read, the only reason they went
that far is because Miyamoto has a personal interest in the subject.
However even Nintendo seems to use the "ehh, whatever" approach with
handhelds (their cash cow!).

Drives me nuts; I have this sinking feeling that at some point either Sony
or MS will gain a true monopoly in gaming, and thenceforth spend even
_less_ effort (if it's possible) on making my thumbs _not hurt_ (man, is
that really so much to ask...?).

-Miles
--
`There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio,
Than are dreamt of in your philosophy.'

Beck

2005-04-08, 6:47 am

"Miles Bader" <miles@gnu.org> wrote in message
news:874qeii16w.fsf@tc-1-100.kawasaki.gol.ne.jp...

quote:

> "Beck" <invalid@invalid.invalid> writes:
>
> WTF is it with controls anyway? It seems that Sony and MS obsess
> endlessly
> over graphics, but spend little time and effort in getting the controls
> comfortable and usable. Maybe MS has some excuse in that the xbox was
> largely a rush job, and it was their first console; hopefully they'll
> spend
> more effort on the xbox2.
>
> Nintendo tried harder (whether you like the results or not) with the N64
> and GC controllers, but based on what I've read, the only reason they went
> that far is because Miyamoto has a personal interest in the subject.
> However even Nintendo seems to use the "ehh, whatever" approach with
> handhelds (their cash cow!).
>
> Drives me nuts; I have this sinking feeling that at some point either Sony
> or MS will gain a true monopoly in gaming, and thenceforth spend even
> _less_ effort (if it's possible) on making my thumbs _not hurt_ (man, is
> that really so much to ask...?).

Its a right royal pain. Sont have tried to do something with the addition
of the analogue stick on the PSP and it goes partically towards a good
control system. But not all games use it and it can be uncomfortable to
use. I feel its in the wrong place and could be better moved a bit to the
right to allow for a better grip of the PSP. If I use the analogue stick
now, I cannot hold the unit properly.

Miles Bader

2005-04-08, 6:47 am

"Annette" <gimisty_blue@blueyonder.co.uk> writes:

quote:

> Remember graphics aren't everything You are still correct though, it
> dominates the graphics at the moment.

Daniel Kolle

2005-04-09, 3:46 am

On Sun, 3 Apr 2005 09:19:15 -0400, "Boody Bandit"
<lightenup@francis.news> thought hard and wrote:

quote:

>
>"FooAtari" <alistair_fraser81REMOVE@THISyahoo.co.uk> wrote in message
>news:Xns962D748DDF7D8alistairfraser81REMO@194.106.32.13...
>
>
>It will be the "master of the most amazing graphics ever seen on a
>handheld".

Graphics whore.

--

-Daniel "Mr. Brevity" Kolle; 17 A.A. #2035
Koji Kondo, Yo-Yo Ma, Gustav Mahler, Krzysztof Penderecki, and Geirr Tveitt are my Gods.
Head of EAC Denial Department and Madly Insane Scientist.

Jacob Oost

2005-04-09, 6:46 am

G wrote:

quote:

> If I am to make any recommendation, it is for you to play both consoles in
> store as extensively as possible. Especially try Yoshi Touch and Go, and
> Polarium. I think those who are off put by the "uniqueness" of the DS may
> come away pleasantly surprised. If on the other hand, you LOVE your PS2,
> get a PSP and take your pride and joy with you.

Smart Feet

2005-04-09, 5:48 pm

Jacob Oost wrote:

quote:

> G wrote:
>
>
>
> My nearby Wal-Mart has a DS for you to try. Unfortunately the stylus
> screen is heavily scratched and does not work. I'm worried about that
> happening with the DS.
>

All video game demo units everywhere get destroyed very quickly.

2005-04-09, 5:48 pm

>My nearby Wal-Mart has a DS for you to try. Unfortunately the stylus

quote:

>screen is heavily scratched and does not work. I'm worried about that
>happening with the DS.

manfatto

2005-04-09, 9:46 pm

The D pad is a bit low and squashy on the ds as well but it works well
for games like mario 64 so you finger can slide over it giving a more
'analogue' feel to it at times (although nowhere near as good).

Paul Dunn wrote:

quote:

> manfatto wrote:
>
>
>
> Just out of curiosity, can anyone tell me what the DPad on the DS is like
> for prolonged use?
>
> My GBA-SP's DPad is nowhere near as good as the original GB - which was much
> more solid and had much more positive feedback. In contrast, the GBA-SP's
> feels a tad too "low", and too squashy, which results in more than a couple
> of diagonal moves not being read.
>
> What's the DS like? Same type of D-Pad?
>
> D.
>
>

Beck

2005-04-09, 9:46 pm

"Miles Bader" <miles@gnu.org> wrote in message
news:87ll7z8kl4.fsf@tc-1-100.kawasaki.gol.ne.jp...

quote:

> "Annette" <gimisty_blue@blueyonder.co.uk> writes:
>
> Yeah; the PSP's graphics & screen are kewl, but not enough to compensate
> for its other faults.

What faults? Mine is fine (at the moment) :-)

Miles Bader

2005-04-11, 5:51 pm

"Beck" <invalid@invalid.invalid> writes:

quote:

>
> What faults? Mine is fine (at the moment) :-)

2005-04-11, 5:51 pm

> * Too heavy

Not true

quote:

> * Too big (note that I think the DS is too big too :-)

Not true, on either system

quote:

> * Too expensive

Relative to what? The DS? Or the IPOD? A PDA? A top end mobile
phone? Its a little expensive, but not hugely expensive.

quote:

> * Clunky controls

Nope.

quote:

> * Short battery life

Agree

quote:

> * Fragile

Well, thats like saying "I was going to buy the Ferarri, but the
Renault Megane just doesnt smash up as bad in a crash"

quote:

> * "requires a case" design

No it doesnt.

quote:

>Of course many of these things are subjective -- if you always play
>sitting on your couch, you may not care about battery life and lack of
>"portability features".

Exactly

However, I travel a lot with both systems in my backpack,
no problems.

Paul Dunn

2005-04-11, 5:51 pm

G wrote:

quote:

>
> Not true, on either system

Beck

2005-04-11, 5:51 pm

"Paul Dunn" <paul.dunn4@ntlworld.com> wrote in message
news:pdw4e.10966$vv2.2135@newsfe2-gui.ntli.net...

quote:

> Depends on how you define "big". They're certainly a lot more bulky than
> my GBA for lugging around - and the overall size/design has prevented me
> from considering one. Good thing is that the GBA was big and bulky (and
> had the worst control layout I've used since the Sega GameGear) but
> Nintendo fixed pretty much all that in the GBA. I'm hoping that the DS
> gets a re-design in a similar fashion - it will be a viable platform for
> *me*.
>
> Others may disagree

Miles Bader

2005-04-11, 5:51 pm

"Paul Dunn" <paul.dunn4@ntlworld.com> writes:

quote:

>
> Depends on how you define "big". They're certainly a lot more bulky
> than my GBA for lugging around - and the overall size/design has
> prevented me from considering one. Good thing is that the GBA was big
> and bulky (and had the worst control layout I've used since the Sega
> GameGear) but Nintendo fixed pretty much all that in the GBA [SP].

Paul Dunn

2005-04-11, 9:46 pm

manfatto wrote:

quote:

> Hi Just like to say that whilst I agree with most of what was said. I
> do think the PSP is too heavy for my inside pocket - not rucksack -
> and it was the first thing I noticed when I picked it up. I also
> think that the build quality is quite poor. Some of the buttons rock
> and I find the analogue joytstick to be pretty crap when compared to
> a normal one and quite sticky, I prefer to play with the d pad. I
> haven't had any problems with dodgy x buttons though.
>
> On the Ds I find the buttons too small - In fact I wish they were on
> the top screen as that's where my fingers fall naturally. And the
> back digs into my hand a bit. It looks ugly compared to the psp.

Beck

2005-04-11, 9:46 pm

"Paul Dunn" <paul.dunn4@ntlworld.com> wrote in message
news:xaa5e.917$c4.318@newsfe3-win.ntli.net...

quote:

> manfatto wrote:
>
> Just out of curiosity, can anyone tell me what the DPad on the DS is like
> for prolonged use?
>
> My GBA-SP's DPad is nowhere near as good as the original GB - which was
> much more solid and had much more positive feedback. In contrast, the
> GBA-SP's feels a tad too "low", and too squashy, which results in more
> than a couple of diagonal moves not being read.
>
> What's the DS like? Same type of D-Pad?

Same as the PSP - Painful. I find both to be quite painful to use after 20
minutes or so, depending on the games. DS pad looks just like the GBA pad
(maybe slightly bigger)

Miles Bader

2005-04-11, 9:46 pm

"Beck" <invalid@invalid.invalid> writes:

quote:

> Same as the PSP - Painful. I find both to be quite painful to use after 20
> minutes or so, depending on the games.

manfatto

2005-04-12, 6:53 am

quote:

> manfatto wrote:
>
>
>
> Just out of curiosity, can anyone tell me what the DPad on the DS is like
> for prolonged use?
>
> My GBA-SP's DPad is nowhere near as good as the original GB - which was much
> more solid and had much more positive feedback. In contrast, the GBA-SP's
> feels a tad too "low", and too squashy, which results in more than a couple
> of diagonal moves not being read.
>
> What's the DS like? Same type of D-Pad?
>
> D.
>
>