PSP vs. DS

The world of handheld gaming was revolutionized by both the Nintendo DS (Dual Screen) and the Sony PSP (PlayStation Portable). Offering the latest in graphics and processing power, both units have their strengths and weaknesses.

I purchased my DS a couple years before getting my PSP. The DS sports dual screens, with the one on bottom being a touch screen. This really adds a new dimension to traditional single-screen gameplay. For instance, in the first Zelda game released for the system, the player controls Link, the main character, via the touch screen only. All movement and gameplay takes place via the touch screen. When the map is accessed, the stylus can be used to make handwritten notes, draw routes, etc. Not all the games utilize the touch screen - some more, some less - but all the DS games use the monitor aspect of the dual screen in some way or another.

The PSP does not have 2 screens and neither does it have a touch screen. But the screen it has is about twice as big as either individual screen on the DS. The system is also a lot more powerful in terms of graphics. On top of this it comes with a built in web browser and a memory card slot to store music, videos, and downloadable games. This means different kinds of games than the DS. The absence of the touch screen makes for more classic gameplay, and games seem to be geared to show off graphic capabilities.

Neither unit is really better than the other since each have their strengths and weaknesses. Graphics alone don't make a great game, although they can add a lot to the user's experience, particularly ones with intense stories. Unique gameplay and dual screens don't necessarily make a great game, but great games can make use of these features.