The next iteration of the best-selling gaming portable will have touch controls at the reverse of the unit.
Aside from the rumored excellent screen quality of the new PSP, the number one feature that people close to the product development of the unit are talking about is the touch-sensitive area on its behind.
Innovative Touch Controls
The touch-sensitive controls on the back of the device represent a significant shift in how gamers interact with their handheld consoles. This innovative feature is designed to provide a more immersive and intuitive gaming experience. By placing the touch controls on the back, developers can create games that utilize both the front screen and the rear touchpad, offering a new dimension of gameplay. For instance, players might use the rear touchpad to manipulate objects, navigate menus, or control characters in ways that were previously impossible with traditional front-facing buttons.
It’s expected to launch by the end of 2011 at the earliest with flash media storage similar to the PSPgo. This means that the new PSP will likely support digital downloads and storage, allowing gamers to carry a vast library of games without the need for physical media. This shift towards digital storage is in line with industry trends, as more and more consumers prefer the convenience and accessibility of digital content.
Challenges and Opportunities
No word on what physical controls, if any, will be on the front of the device. This will certainly be a challenge to new gamers who expect controls from any gaming device to be staring them in front instead of the back. Traditional gamers might find it difficult to adapt to this new control scheme, as it deviates from the conventional button layouts they are accustomed to. However, this challenge also presents an opportunity for innovation in game design. Developers can experiment with new control mechanics that take full advantage of the touch-sensitive rear panel, potentially leading to unique and engaging gameplay experiences.
But who knows, in this generation of Wii and Kinect, the backside control system might just be what portable gamers need to maximize screenspace with minimum obstruction and device size. The success of motion controls and touch interfaces in other gaming platforms suggests that players are open to new ways of interacting with their games. The rear touch controls could help reduce the overall size of the device while maintaining a large, unobstructed screen, making it more portable and user-friendly.
Moreover, the touch-sensitive rear panel could enhance the ergonomics of the device. By distributing the controls between the front and back, players might find it more comfortable to hold and play for extended periods. This could be particularly beneficial for games that require precise and continuous input, such as racing or action games.
The new PSP’s touch-sensitive controls on the back of the unit represent a bold step forward in handheld gaming technology. While it may pose a challenge to traditional gamers, it also opens up a world of possibilities for innovative game design and enhanced user experiences. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, features like these will likely become more common, pushing the boundaries of what portable gaming can achieve.
via Eurogamer
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