PSP versus DS Lite
Which system is better? Is there a winner? Let's find out what the strengths and weaknesses of each system are, and then maybe you can make the best decision about where to invest your money.
I'll start with a brief overview of each system, starting in alphabetical order (that's the DS first, in case you are reciting the alphabet in your head now trying to figure it out).
DS LITE
The DS is the latest portable from the one and only Nintendo. Who doesn't know who Nintendo is? They ruled the gaming world for so long with such awesome systems as the NES, Game Boy, and SNES. In usual Nintendo fashion, they have brought us an awesome system with the usual plethora of Mario options (a new Super Mario Bros., a unique version of Mario 64, and Mario Kart).
Now, it's no question whatsoever that Nintendo ruled the portable gaming market with hardly a contender in sight. The Atari Lynx, Sega Game Gear, and TurboExpress hardly touched the Game Boy (even though all of them offered much better [color] graphics). Will Nintendo continue that trend? They just might with the DS
The Original DS was a bit of a clunker. It wasn't bad, and it wasn't a dud by any means. However, it just had a few inconviences. When you went for the start button, you might accidentally switch the power off. The microphone was in an awkward spot, and you couldn't see the power indicator when the system was flipped open. On top of that, the lid didn't close flush with the unit. The DS Lite, however, is ultra-sleek, slim, and all-around an awesome improvement. Like the original DS, it features dual screens, a single touch screen with accompanying stylus, backward compatbility with GBA games (the GBA slot is on the bottom), Wi-Fi capability, stereo sound, and a myriad of unique and exciting games. Additionally, depending on what region you are living in (Americas, Europe, Asia), you get to choose from a variety of colors (including pink, white, blue, silver, and black). At approximately ¥16700 (about $130 for US), it won't take too big of a bite out of your dough.
The use of the touch screen is an absolute joy (most of the time). Although sometimes it can be difficult, the touch screen is simple and precise. Games that natively use the stylus are fun and unique. If for any reason you are having difficulty with the screen (I haven't), you can recalibrate it at any time with the software included on the system. And speaking of that included software, the DS includes an alarm clock, four brightness settings, PictoChat (a fun chatting/drawing program), regional language options, and a few other options.
Is there anything that strikes me as negative right from the start? Honestly, not really. If I became extra picky, I suppose I would criticize the slightly cheap feeling of the controls,which sometimes feel a bit like they were taken off of the original Game Boy from the 80's. Additionally, you need an actual cartridge that uses Wi-Fi in order to configure your settings (there is no way to configure the Wi-Fi settings if you don't have a Wi-Fi enabled game in your collection). But then again, why would you need to? Other than that, the system is smooth and stylish.
PSP (Play Station Portable)
The PSP is from the makers of the Play Station, the one and only Sony. Sony surprised everyone when they came out of nowhere and took control of the console gaming market with the Play Station (followed by a Play Station 2, and now a 3). It seems a no-brainer that the success of the PSX and PSX2 has paved the way for a decently succesful portable console release, but does the system have the ability to stand up to the long-standing champion, Nintendo? The answer is YES! The PSP holds its own in this one-on-one battle of portables.
The PSP features a large wide screen display, plenty of buttons, Wi-Fi, choice of six different colors, and some included built-in software. The software includes a mini web browser, music player, video player, and more. Although web browsing isn't entirely convenient with the controls, it works just fine once you get used to it. The PSP has a good selection of games that generally mirror the kind of games you would get on a regular home console system.
You can hook up additional data to your PSP via two formats: UMD and memory stick. Although a USB connection would have been much more convenient, you can still use these two formats to store data and access it with your PSP (including movies and music). Some independent manufacturers have created ways to use a USB to connect the PSP and a PC. These storage devices mean that Sony makes it easy to do much more than simply play cartridges, opening up the system to some unique possiblities.
THE COMPARISON
OK, let's start the comparison!
PERFORMANCE
I thought I'd begin by evaluating the systems from a performance stand-point. Although performance certainly has not been the defining factor in the portable wars (Game Boy was always the least powerful but most popular), it certainly can be a huge factor in today's gaming market. In this area, the PSP just plain old wins; there's just no competition. The PSP has a fastor processor and approximately 8 times the onboard RAM. Nintendo is clearly not even trying to compete in the performance area.
Without getting too lengthy, let's just end this with a win for the PSP.
INTERFACE & CONTROLS
Does one system have a clear advantage in this area? Certainly, any system is supposed to have controls geared towards their target style of games. Still, we can find advantages and disadvantages in this area.
The DS: There's just too much to say in this one review. Two words: touch screen. There's no getting past the fact that this one feature makes the DS stand out in huge ways. Using the touch screen with interactive games is a joy. Additionally, mini-games that are included in numerous cartridges have so many more possibilities with the use of the stylus (just look at Mario 64 DS). As for the standard controls (D-pad and buttons), the DS certainly has enough. The standard four buttons and START and SELECT are augmented by an additional two L and R buttons (on the top of the unit). I've never felt limited by the options presented here, and I don't think most of the game manufacturers have been either.
The controls, however, can sometimes feel a bit awkward. The D-pad has a slightly cheap feel to it, and the START and SELECT buttons are 'clicky' (just try pushing one and you'll see what I mean). Additionally, you will worry that if you push the L or R button too hard it might just pop off (but rest assured, it's just how it feels; it won't pop off). The built-in system interface is straightforward and simple, and if you don't have a cartridge loaded, there isn't much to do here other than PictoChat (which is nice). Unfortunately, Nintendo didn't give us the option of connecting to people via the internet for PictoChat, so you begin to wonder why you would use an electronic device to talk to people who are close enough to hear you...
The PSP: I don't have nearly as much as experience with the PSP, but the controls definitely don't feel so 'plastic' and cheap as the D-Pad on the DS. There's no touch screen here, which severely restricts the options that the DS has. Once again, plenty of buttons. The system sits well in your hands, and the larger size makes extended playing much more comfortable than the DS (though neither one is especially difficult to hold).
It feels very much like a console system, especially since there is no touch screen. I hate to criticize the PSP for not having something that it never aimed to have, but since we are comparing the two, I definitely feel limited with the PSP; so many of the DS's game options are just not possible (or reasonable) on the PSP.However, the PSP has much more to offer when you're using it without playing an actual game. The built-in browser, music and video player offer you some things to do when you're not expressly gaming. The DS simply lacks these things (although you can get these features on your DS, it requires an additional purchase, or the use of unofficial homebrew applications). In the DS's defense, the built-in PictoChat is a lovely program (if you have people close by to talk to).
So, who wins in this comparison? Well, I just can't get past the awesome possiblities and features offered by the touch screen of the DS. I'm giving this one to the DS, with an urging for Nintendo to include more built-in software (such as a browser and media player).
THE GAMES
Does one system reign supreme in the game offerings? Let's find out!
The PSP: Forgive me for not using very many game's titles, but you should be generally familiar with the genre of games I am speaking about. The PSP takes the lead with first-person style games and all things shooter (Killzone: Liberation comes to mind). There are some nice racing options, as well as RPG and action. One area where the PSP holds the fort is with fighter games (Street Fighter style games). At the moment, I can't think of a single fighter game for the DS (nor would I want to). I can think of a couple for the PSP.
The PSP is clearly aimed at more extended, intensive game playing. This might also be a drawback of the system, since many people own a portable so that they can play for brief periods of time while they are on the train, bus, waiting for a friend, or hanging out with friends at the university. Although you can do some neat things with the included media player and browser, there aren't many games that make you want to get your friends together and say, 'Hey, check this out! Look what my PSP can do!'
The DS: And this is where the DS comes in. It has numerous unique and creative games that offer you the ability to play for only brief moments. There are of course more extensive games, including RPG, action, racing, and so forth, but the DS excels at games that use the stylus for short periods of unique fun. Brain Age is just one of these unique games that break the traditional boundary of what a console offers as a 'game.' You can get your friends together and have everyone see what their 'brain age' is, or practice your knowledge of Japanese characters with Kanji trainers and quiz software. Mario 64 DS offers your some crazy things you can do with line art of Mario and Yoshi (as well as your own line art), and a lot of fun and brief mini-games that can be accessed at anytime. You can also see who can make the best surgical incisions with your friends using the stylus and the Caduceus game cartridge.
The DS has its niche in the gaming market, and it offers something that has never been available to console systems before (PDA-like features). It is unfortunate, however, that Nintendo has not included more built-in software to take advantage of these awesome possiblities.
So who is the winner? It's hard to say. If you are a more hardcore gamer looking for intensive game playing, the PSP is a better choice. If you're someone who enjoys games, especially unique and fun ones that you can play at anytime for long or short periods, the DS can fulfill all those needs. Me? I give this to the DS, because I just love my Kanji programs too much. You may differ with me on this.
DESIGN
Which system looks and feels nicer?
The DS: The DS Lite is everything a DS was and much, much better! It's slim, sleek, smooth, and a huge improvement on the older version. Compared to the PSP, the DS Lite can feel like the difference between a clunky Windows laptop and a smooth MacBook. In fact, more than once has someone compared the look and feel of the DS to that of a Macontish computer; it just looks dignified and lovely. The color options are a wonderful touch as well!
The screens are beautiful. The touch screen does not seem to get too scratched up or dented at all from the use of the stylus, which is nice. The system fits nicely in the hands, and there are no sharp or uncomfortable parts on it. I love it.
The PSP: Like the DS, there is nothing uncomfortable or awkward about the PSP. It's an easy hold, doesn't have any obvious blemishes, and has a beautiful screen. The huge widescreen on the PSP is brilliantly bright and crisp.
However, when comparing the two, no color options will cover the fact that the DS Lite is just sleeker and smoother than the PSP. For those who care about such things, the DS Lite is a clear winner in the design category.
Wi-Fi
To make it short, both systems have pretty flawless Wi-Fi features. The "Download Play" option of the DS, allowing many people to play using one cartridge, is simply brilliant. I've never had the chance to use it, however. Other than that, there is no clear advantage to either one's Wi-Fi capabilities (except that the PSP comes standard with a browser, while the DS requires you to buy a separate cartridge for it).
HOMEBREW
You may be wondering what homebrew is. Well, it's pretty simple: people make applications and games for the DS at home and upload them to the internet, where you can download them and use them with your DS and PSP. Unfortunately, it's not that simple. You have to find ways to get around built-in security features that are meant to prevent this from happening. Why do Sony and Nintendo try to block this usage of their system? Because you can illegally download ripped ROMs (copies of commercial games) and play them using this feature.
Accessing homebrew is something I have not done with either system yet, so I am not qualified to offer personal commentary on how well it works. However, I can say that from review, it seems that once you get things going, you have pretty simple access on both systems. The easiest way to open up this possiblity on a DS is to buy a bypassing cartridge such as a M3 DS Simply, or Supercard. Do a search if you need more details.
As for which system has better homebrew, well the PSP currently has more (but the DS is catching up). The PSP can accomodate more processor-intensive applications and games, as well as offer much more RAM for use by homebrew apps. However, the DS offers some huge possibilities that many homebrew makers are taking advantage of in the touch screen. Many homebrew DS apps are simply not possible or reasonable on a PSP, giving the DS a clear advantage in that area. Although many of the memory limitations of the DS can be overcome through different means, the PSP is king of the hill in processor power. And the fact cannot be denied that more RAM is just plain nicer.
Who wins in the homebrew area? I'm going to call it an even draw because of the unique opportunities offered by both systems. However, I am infinitely more excited about what people are doing and will do with the touch screen of the DS.
CONCLUSION
Well that's it people! I don't have any convenient numbers to give you, but I only favored the PSP in the area of performance. Everywhere else, I saw the DS as the better way to go. You may differ from me, but I hope I offered you a decently balanced perspective.
So, go grab yourself a DS Lite and have fun!
Which system is better? Is there a winner? Let's find out what the strengths and weaknesses of each system are, and then maybe you can make the best decision about where to invest your money.
I'll start with a brief overview of each system, starting in alphabetical order (that's the DS first, in case you are reciting the alphabet in your head now trying to figure it out).
DS LITE
The DS is the latest portable from the one and only Nintendo. Who doesn't know who Nintendo is? They ruled the gaming world for so long with such awesome systems as the NES, Game Boy, and SNES. In usual Nintendo fashion, they have brought us an awesome system with the usual plethora of Mario options (a new Super Mario Bros., a unique version of Mario 64, and Mario Kart).Now, it's no question whatsoever that Nintendo ruled the portable gaming market with hardly a contender in sight. The Atari Lynx, Sega Game Gear, and TurboExpress hardly touched the Game Boy (even though all of them offered much better [color] graphics). Will Nintendo continue that trend? They just might with the DS
The Original DS was a bit of a clunker. It wasn't bad, and it wasn't a dud by any means. However, it just had a few inconviences. When you went for the start button, you might accidentally switch the power off. The microphone was in an awkward spot, and you couldn't see the power indicator when the system was flipped open. On top of that, the lid didn't close flush with the unit. The DS Lite, however, is ultra-sleek, slim, and all-around an awesome improvement. Like the original DS, it features dual screens, a single touch screen with accompanying stylus, backward compatbility with GBA games (the GBA slot is on the bottom), Wi-Fi capability, stereo sound, and a myriad of unique and exciting games. Additionally, depending on what region you are living in (Americas, Europe, Asia), you get to choose from a variety of colors (including pink, white, blue, silver, and black). At approximately ¥16700 (about $130 for US), it won't take too big of a bite out of your dough.
The use of the touch screen is an absolute joy (most of the time). Although sometimes it can be difficult, the touch screen is simple and precise. Games that natively use the stylus are fun and unique. If for any reason you are having difficulty with the screen (I haven't), you can recalibrate it at any time with the software included on the system. And speaking of that included software, the DS includes an alarm clock, four brightness settings, PictoChat (a fun chatting/drawing program), regional language options, and a few other options.
Is there anything that strikes me as negative right from the start? Honestly, not really. If I became extra picky, I suppose I would criticize the slightly cheap feeling of the controls,which sometimes feel a bit like they were taken off of the original Game Boy from the 80's. Additionally, you need an actual cartridge that uses Wi-Fi in order to configure your settings (there is no way to configure the Wi-Fi settings if you don't have a Wi-Fi enabled game in your collection). But then again, why would you need to? Other than that, the system is smooth and stylish.
PSP (Play Station Portable)
The PSP is from the makers of the Play Station, the one and only Sony. Sony surprised everyone when they came out of nowhere and took control of the console gaming market with the Play Station (followed by a Play Station 2, and now a 3). It seems a no-brainer that the success of the PSX and PSX2 has paved the way for a decently succesful portable console release, but does the system have the ability to stand up to the long-standing champion, Nintendo? The answer is YES! The PSP holds its own in this one-on-one battle of portables.The PSP features a large wide screen display, plenty of buttons, Wi-Fi, choice of six different colors, and some included built-in software. The software includes a mini web browser, music player, video player, and more. Although web browsing isn't entirely convenient with the controls, it works just fine once you get used to it. The PSP has a good selection of games that generally mirror the kind of games you would get on a regular home console system.
You can hook up additional data to your PSP via two formats: UMD and memory stick. Although a USB connection would have been much more convenient, you can still use these two formats to store data and access it with your PSP (including movies and music). Some independent manufacturers have created ways to use a USB to connect the PSP and a PC. These storage devices mean that Sony makes it easy to do much more than simply play cartridges, opening up the system to some unique possiblities.
THE COMPARISON
OK, let's start the comparison!
PERFORMANCE
I thought I'd begin by evaluating the systems from a performance stand-point. Although performance certainly has not been the defining factor in the portable wars (Game Boy was always the least powerful but most popular), it certainly can be a huge factor in today's gaming market. In this area, the PSP just plain old wins; there's just no competition. The PSP has a fastor processor and approximately 8 times the onboard RAM. Nintendo is clearly not even trying to compete in the performance area.
Without getting too lengthy, let's just end this with a win for the PSP.
INTERFACE & CONTROLS
Does one system have a clear advantage in this area? Certainly, any system is supposed to have controls geared towards their target style of games. Still, we can find advantages and disadvantages in this area.
The DS: There's just too much to say in this one review. Two words: touch screen. There's no getting past the fact that this one feature makes the DS stand out in huge ways. Using the touch screen with interactive games is a joy. Additionally, mini-games that are included in numerous cartridges have so many more possibilities with the use of the stylus (just look at Mario 64 DS). As for the standard controls (D-pad and buttons), the DS certainly has enough. The standard four buttons and START and SELECT are augmented by an additional two L and R buttons (on the top of the unit). I've never felt limited by the options presented here, and I don't think most of the game manufacturers have been either.
The controls, however, can sometimes feel a bit awkward. The D-pad has a slightly cheap feel to it, and the START and SELECT buttons are 'clicky' (just try pushing one and you'll see what I mean). Additionally, you will worry that if you push the L or R button too hard it might just pop off (but rest assured, it's just how it feels; it won't pop off). The built-in system interface is straightforward and simple, and if you don't have a cartridge loaded, there isn't much to do here other than PictoChat (which is nice). Unfortunately, Nintendo didn't give us the option of connecting to people via the internet for PictoChat, so you begin to wonder why you would use an electronic device to talk to people who are close enough to hear you...
The PSP: I don't have nearly as much as experience with the PSP, but the controls definitely don't feel so 'plastic' and cheap as the D-Pad on the DS. There's no touch screen here, which severely restricts the options that the DS has. Once again, plenty of buttons. The system sits well in your hands, and the larger size makes extended playing much more comfortable than the DS (though neither one is especially difficult to hold).
It feels very much like a console system, especially since there is no touch screen. I hate to criticize the PSP for not having something that it never aimed to have, but since we are comparing the two, I definitely feel limited with the PSP; so many of the DS's game options are just not possible (or reasonable) on the PSP.However, the PSP has much more to offer when you're using it without playing an actual game. The built-in browser, music and video player offer you some things to do when you're not expressly gaming. The DS simply lacks these things (although you can get these features on your DS, it requires an additional purchase, or the use of unofficial homebrew applications). In the DS's defense, the built-in PictoChat is a lovely program (if you have people close by to talk to).
So, who wins in this comparison? Well, I just can't get past the awesome possiblities and features offered by the touch screen of the DS. I'm giving this one to the DS, with an urging for Nintendo to include more built-in software (such as a browser and media player).
THE GAMES
Does one system reign supreme in the game offerings? Let's find out!
The PSP: Forgive me for not using very many game's titles, but you should be generally familiar with the genre of games I am speaking about. The PSP takes the lead with first-person style games and all things shooter (Killzone: Liberation comes to mind). There are some nice racing options, as well as RPG and action. One area where the PSP holds the fort is with fighter games (Street Fighter style games). At the moment, I can't think of a single fighter game for the DS (nor would I want to). I can think of a couple for the PSP.
The PSP is clearly aimed at more extended, intensive game playing. This might also be a drawback of the system, since many people own a portable so that they can play for brief periods of time while they are on the train, bus, waiting for a friend, or hanging out with friends at the university. Although you can do some neat things with the included media player and browser, there aren't many games that make you want to get your friends together and say, 'Hey, check this out! Look what my PSP can do!'
The DS: And this is where the DS comes in. It has numerous unique and creative games that offer you the ability to play for only brief moments. There are of course more extensive games, including RPG, action, racing, and so forth, but the DS excels at games that use the stylus for short periods of unique fun. Brain Age is just one of these unique games that break the traditional boundary of what a console offers as a 'game.' You can get your friends together and have everyone see what their 'brain age' is, or practice your knowledge of Japanese characters with Kanji trainers and quiz software. Mario 64 DS offers your some crazy things you can do with line art of Mario and Yoshi (as well as your own line art), and a lot of fun and brief mini-games that can be accessed at anytime. You can also see who can make the best surgical incisions with your friends using the stylus and the Caduceus game cartridge.
The DS has its niche in the gaming market, and it offers something that has never been available to console systems before (PDA-like features). It is unfortunate, however, that Nintendo has not included more built-in software to take advantage of these awesome possiblities.
So who is the winner? It's hard to say. If you are a more hardcore gamer looking for intensive game playing, the PSP is a better choice. If you're someone who enjoys games, especially unique and fun ones that you can play at anytime for long or short periods, the DS can fulfill all those needs. Me? I give this to the DS, because I just love my Kanji programs too much. You may differ with me on this.
DESIGN
Which system looks and feels nicer?
The DS: The DS Lite is everything a DS was and much, much better! It's slim, sleek, smooth, and a huge improvement on the older version. Compared to the PSP, the DS Lite can feel like the difference between a clunky Windows laptop and a smooth MacBook. In fact, more than once has someone compared the look and feel of the DS to that of a Macontish computer; it just looks dignified and lovely. The color options are a wonderful touch as well!
The screens are beautiful. The touch screen does not seem to get too scratched up or dented at all from the use of the stylus, which is nice. The system fits nicely in the hands, and there are no sharp or uncomfortable parts on it. I love it.
The PSP: Like the DS, there is nothing uncomfortable or awkward about the PSP. It's an easy hold, doesn't have any obvious blemishes, and has a beautiful screen. The huge widescreen on the PSP is brilliantly bright and crisp.
However, when comparing the two, no color options will cover the fact that the DS Lite is just sleeker and smoother than the PSP. For those who care about such things, the DS Lite is a clear winner in the design category.
Wi-Fi
To make it short, both systems have pretty flawless Wi-Fi features. The "Download Play" option of the DS, allowing many people to play using one cartridge, is simply brilliant. I've never had the chance to use it, however. Other than that, there is no clear advantage to either one's Wi-Fi capabilities (except that the PSP comes standard with a browser, while the DS requires you to buy a separate cartridge for it).
HOMEBREW
You may be wondering what homebrew is. Well, it's pretty simple: people make applications and games for the DS at home and upload them to the internet, where you can download them and use them with your DS and PSP. Unfortunately, it's not that simple. You have to find ways to get around built-in security features that are meant to prevent this from happening. Why do Sony and Nintendo try to block this usage of their system? Because you can illegally download ripped ROMs (copies of commercial games) and play them using this feature.
Accessing homebrew is something I have not done with either system yet, so I am not qualified to offer personal commentary on how well it works. However, I can say that from review, it seems that once you get things going, you have pretty simple access on both systems. The easiest way to open up this possiblity on a DS is to buy a bypassing cartridge such as a M3 DS Simply, or Supercard. Do a search if you need more details.
As for which system has better homebrew, well the PSP currently has more (but the DS is catching up). The PSP can accomodate more processor-intensive applications and games, as well as offer much more RAM for use by homebrew apps. However, the DS offers some huge possibilities that many homebrew makers are taking advantage of in the touch screen. Many homebrew DS apps are simply not possible or reasonable on a PSP, giving the DS a clear advantage in that area. Although many of the memory limitations of the DS can be overcome through different means, the PSP is king of the hill in processor power. And the fact cannot be denied that more RAM is just plain nicer.
Who wins in the homebrew area? I'm going to call it an even draw because of the unique opportunities offered by both systems. However, I am infinitely more excited about what people are doing and will do with the touch screen of the DS.
CONCLUSION
Well that's it people! I don't have any convenient numbers to give you, but I only favored the PSP in the area of performance. Everywhere else, I saw the DS as the better way to go. You may differ from me, but I hope I offered you a decently balanced perspective.
So, go grab yourself a DS Lite and have fun!
