Sony were quite comfortable with letting the idea that its upcoming portable will pack somewhere close to PS3 levels of punch float around at first, but things are getting out of hand. And Sony couldn’t stand idly by letting these rumors run rampant for more than a few months. Because then they’d get into the public consciousness and people would start thinking they were true even after Sony debunked them and then where would you be?
“Some people in the press have said wow, this thing… could be as powerful as PS3. Well, it’s not going to run at 2GHz because the battery would last five minutes,” David Coombes, a platform research manager and intrepid truth disseminator said about NGP processor claims. “And it would probably set fire to your pants.” And since Sony cares deeply about your pants, mostly because that’s where your wallet is, that’s obviously not happening. To be honest, I was perfectly happy with PSP visuals for a handheld, all the NGP needed for a sale was a second analog. The rest is just gravy.
Understanding the NGP’s Capabilities
The Next Generation Portable (NGP), later known as the PlayStation Vita, was designed to offer a significant leap in handheld gaming technology. While it may not match the raw power of a PlayStation 3, it still boasts impressive specifications. The NGP features a quad-core ARM Cortex-A9 MPCore processor and a quad-core PowerVR SGX543MP4+ GPU, which together provide a robust gaming experience. This combination allows for high-quality graphics and smooth gameplay, making it a formidable competitor in the handheld market.
Moreover, the NGP includes a 5-inch OLED touchscreen, dual analog sticks, front and rear cameras, and a rear touchpad. These features collectively enhance the gaming experience, offering more interactive and immersive gameplay. The device also supports Wi-Fi, 3G, and Bluetooth connectivity, ensuring that players can stay connected and enjoy multiplayer gaming on the go.
Battery Life and Practicality
One of the critical considerations for any portable gaming device is battery life. As David Coombes pointed out, running the NGP at 2GHz would drastically reduce battery life, making it impractical for extended gaming sessions. The NGP’s actual clock speed is lower, balancing performance and battery efficiency. This ensures that gamers can enjoy their favorite titles without constantly worrying about recharging.
Additionally, the NGP’s design takes into account the need for portability and comfort. The device’s ergonomic design makes it easy to hold for long periods, and the inclusion of dual analog sticks addresses one of the most significant criticisms of its predecessor, the PSP. This improvement allows for more precise control in games, particularly in genres like first-person shooters and action-adventure titles.
Sony’s decision to manage expectations regarding the NGP’s performance compared to the PS3 is a strategic move. By setting realistic expectations, Sony aims to avoid disappointing its customer base and ensure that the NGP is judged on its own merits. The NGP may not rival the PS3 in raw power, but it offers a unique and compelling gaming experience that leverages its portability and innovative features.
In conclusion, while the NGP may not match the PlayStation 3 in terms of sheer processing power, it still represents a significant advancement in handheld gaming technology. With its impressive specifications, innovative features, and thoughtful design, the NGP is poised to make a substantial impact in the gaming world. Sony’s transparency about the device’s capabilities helps set realistic expectations and highlights the NGP’s strengths, ensuring that it is appreciated for what it is—a powerful and versatile portable gaming console.
Via Eurogamer
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
