PlayStation Portable (PSP)

The PlayStation Portable (PSP) is a legendary handheld gaming console that continues to attract fans with its unique features and a vast library of games. In this post, we will take you on a nostalgic trip through the world of PSP, exploring its various models, iconic PlayStation Portable games, and the thriving PSP emulation scene. We’ll also dive into details like the PSP game case dimensions and the PlayStation Portable release date. So, let’s get started!

Table Of Contents

PlayStation Portable (PSP)

PlayStation Portable Release Date: When It All Began

The original PlayStation Portable (PSP) was released in Japan on December 12, 2004, and later in North America on March 24, 2005 It quickly gained popularity thanks to its cutting-edge technology, multimedia capabilities, and vast game library. The PSP console has since seen several iterations, with the PSP-3000 being the last model released.

[Source: https://www.ign.com/articles/2004/10/27/psp-launch-date-price].

PSP Variations: Different Models for Different Needs

Throughout its lifetime, the PlayStation Portable has seen a few variations, including the PSP-1000, PSP-2000 (also known as the PSP Slim & Lite), and PSP-3000. There was also the PSP Go (PSP-N1000), which featured a slide-out design and abandoned the UMD format in favor of digital downloads. Each model brought improvements and new features, catering to a wide range of preferences among gamers.

PSP Console 3000: The Final Evolution

The PSP console 3000 is the third and final iteration of the PlayStation Portable series, released in October 2008. It sports a sleek design, improved screen quality, and a built-in microphone for online gaming. The PSP-3000 model is also known for its enhanced colors and anti-reflective screen, making it the ultimate portable gaming experience. For more details on the PSP console 3000, visit the official PlayStation website [Source: https://www.playstation.com].

PlayStation Portable Games: A World of Choices

The PSP platform boasts a vast library of games, spanning across genres like action, adventure, racing, and RPGs. Some of the most popular PlayStation Portable games include titles such as Need for Speed: Most Wanted, God of War: Chains of Olympus and Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories. These games continue to entertain and engage gamers even years after their initial release. Check out the most popular games of all time at Metacritic.

PlayStation Portable Game Case Dimensions

For those who collect physical copies of PSP games, the dimensions of a PSP game case are essential to know. PSP game cases measure 168 x 99 x 14 mm (6.61 x 3.89 x 0.55 inches. They are designed to hold the Universal Media Disc (UMD), the proprietary disc format used for PSP games, which has a diameter of 64mm.

When looking for storage options for PSP discs, most modern solutions should be suitable, the PlayStation Portable game case dimensions are similar to length and depth to the latest generation of consoles. We like the ADZ Gaming storage towers. We’re maybe a biased, as we own them. Check them out on Amazon

PlayStation Portable Emulators: Bringing the PSP Experience to Modern Devices

As the PlayStation Portable has been discontinued, emulators have become a popular way for gamers to enjoy their favorite PSP games on modern devices. One of the most well-known PSP emulators is PPSSPP, which allows you to play PSP games on Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS devices. Emulators like PPSSPP have breathed new life into the PSP gaming scene, keeping its legacy alive.

FAQ

How much is a PlayStation Portable worth now?

The value of a PlayStation Portable today largely depends on its model, condition, and rarity. On average, a used PSP in good condition can range from $50 to $150, with limited edition models and pristine units fetching even higher prices.

The PSP-3000, the latest and most popular model, typically sells for around $80 to $120. Meanwhile, the rarer PSP Go can be found for approximately $100 to $200, depending on the condition and included accessories.

It’s essential to consider that prices may vary depending on the seller and the specific bundle being offered. Bundles with popular games, accessories, or even custom firmware can affect the value of a PSP.

Sources for PSP Pricing

To get a better understanding of the current market value for PlayStation Portables, it’s crucial to look at various sources. eBay and Amazon popular platform for buying and selling PSP consoles, and it provides an extensive range of listings to compare prices.. Another option is PriceCharting, a website dedicated to tracking the value of video games and consoles.

Additionally, you can visit local game stores or online retailers that specialize in retro gaming, such as GameStop and Lukie Games. These stores often have a selection of pre-owned PSP consoles and can give you an idea of their current value.

The PlayStation Portable remains a popular choice for collectors and fans of retro gaming. Its value can vary greatly depending on factors such as model, condition, and included accessories. By consulting multiple sources, you can get a better understanding of the current market value for the PSP and make an informed decision when buying or selling one.

When did the PlayStation Portable come out?

The PlayStation Portable was initially released in Japan on December 12, 2004, followed by the North American release on March 24, 2005, and the European and Australian launches on September 1, 2005 (1). The device came in several models, starting with the PSP-1000 and evolving into the PSP-2000, PSP-3000, and the PSP Go (2).

Sources

1. “PSP (PlayStation Portable) Historical Timeline.” PlayStation, www.playstation.com/en-us/support/hardware/psp/history/.
2. “PSP Models and Differences.” Lifewire, www.lifewire.com/psp-models-differences-2792757.

Do they still make PlayStation Portable?

Sony discontinued the production of the PlayStation Portable in 2014. The company shifted its focus to its successor, the PlayStation Vita, which was released in 2011. However, the Vita was also discontinued in 2019. Since then, Sony has not released any new handheld gaming consoles and has mainly focused on its home consoles, such as the PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5.

PlayStation Portable vs Nintendo Switch?

The PlayStation Portable (PSP) and Nintendo Switch are two distinct gaming consoles that cater to different generations and offer unique experiences. Here’s a comparison between the two consoles, highlighting their key features and differences.

PlayStation Portable (PSP):

Release Date: The PSP was first released in Japan in December 2004, followed by North America in March 2005, and Europe and Australia in September 2005.
Manufacturer: Sony Computer Entertainment.
Design: The PSP is a handheld gaming console with a 4.3-inch TFT LCD screen and a fixed control layout.
Media Format: PSP games were distributed on Universal Media Discs (UMDs) and were also available for digital download through the PlayStation Network.
Connectivity: The PSP had built-in Wi-Fi for multiplayer gaming and accessing the PlayStation Network.
Graphics and Performance: The PSP offered impressive graphics for its time but was eventually surpassed by newer consoles.
Legacy: The PSP was succeeded by the PlayStation Vita, which was discontinued in 2019. Since then, Sony has not released any new handheld gaming devices.

Nintendo Switch:

Release Date: The Nintendo Switch was first released worldwide in March 2017.
Manufacturer: Nintendo.
Design: The Switch is a hybrid console, functioning as both a handheld device and a home console. It features a 6.2-inch touchscreen and detachable Joy-Con controllers for versatile gameplay experiences.
Media Format: Switch games are distributed on physical game cards or through digital download via the Nintendo eShop.
Connectivity: The Switch has built-in Wi-Fi for multiplayer gaming, accessing the Nintendo eShop, and connecting to other Switch devices for local multiplayer.
Graphics and Performance: The Nintendo Switch offers more advanced graphics and performance compared to the PSP, as it is a more recent console.
Legacy: The Nintendo Switch is still actively supported by Nintendo, with new game releases, software updates, and revisions like the Nintendo Switch Lite and the Nintendo Switch OLED model.

The PlayStation Portable was an influential handheld gaming console of its time, while the Nintendo Switch is a versatile hybrid console offering both handheld and home console experiences. The Switch provides more advanced graphics and performance, along with an actively supported ecosystem of games and updates.