Conclusion
In the current handheld market, you’ve only really got two choices. It’s either the DS or the PSP, unless you’re loaded in which case you can get both. The PSP feels as though it has a much better build quality and it has more going for it than the DS. That said, if we just compare the two as pure gaming platforms, the PSP wins again. It may not have dual screens like the DS, but its single screen is superb and gives a far better image with better graphics than the DS seems capable of with the current games on release.
That’s not to say that the DS isn’t a worthy choice, just that the PSP beats it in most every area. The DS has some features that make it worth a look, such as the dual screens and the touch screen or the ability to play GBA games. If developers utilise these properly, then the DS can really come into its own as a gaming machine, but I think it’ll be held back by it’s apparent lack of oomph in the graphics department. Then again, with a price of around £99 compared to the PSP’s estimated £180, it’s reasonable value for just over half the price of Sony’s effort.
I have to say that the DS is aimed at the younger gamer, so much so that I’m almost tempted to call it a toy rather than a handheld gaming platform. Its lightweight plastic design, the simplicity of use and lack of extras really pigeonhole it as a machine designed for the youngsters. Which is no bad thing if that’s where you think your market is. If you’re over 14 and looking for a handheld, then you’ll be disappointed with the DS. Even with the automatic back catalogue of GBA games, the PSP is where it’s at for more mature content. Overall, if you’re looking to just play, the DS is great value for money with some good ideas. If you want a bit more from your handheld and aren’t afraid to splash your cash, the PSP is the way to go.
Pros
Superb touch screen
Good sound through the speakers
Ease of use
Back catalogue of GBA games
Wifi gaming
Cons
Feels cheaply made
Screens not a patch on the PSP’s one.
Pictochat worrying
Screen display too dim
For a cheap gaming only handheld it’s perfect, though the kids will enjoy it more.
