Sony: No PSP2, Focus On Software

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Although it has been in the rumor bin a lot lately, Sony says they currently have no plans for a "PSP2."

According to MCVUK, SCEE president David Reeves has clarified the situation, and instead of another handheld unit, Sony is focusing on "continually improving the current generation of the handheld format." We already have a couple upgraded versions of the original PSP, anyway, resulting in a unit that's lighter, thinner, sleeker, and even more visible thanks to the latest addition of an enhanced LCD screen. At the same time, Reeves admitted the PSP needs more software - although 2008 saw several amazing titles like God of War: Chains of Olympus and Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII - and they remain dedicated to garnering more support for their handheld. The only problem is, the competition is quite stiff. Said Reeves:

"The PSP is as successful in numbers as PS2 it tracks its numbers in a cumulative basis. Its weakness, however, is its software. And thats because developers, when it comes to placing their bets, have to choose PS3 and 360, then Wii, then DS, maybe even PS2 before PSP. Its the same at our internal studios, where the focus has been on PS3. Theyve also focused a lot on PS2 as well because we have to get the SingStars out for that format. So PSP games will come they just take a while longer."

The PSP is one hell of a little machine, and provided Sony can drag in more high-profile titles, things should be fine. After all, the PSP just enjoyed its best year ever in terms of overall sales in Japan, and despite the odds, it has risen up the ranks. The DS is still king, of course, but the PSP is certainly holding its own. Now, about that software...

12/11/2008 Ben Dutka

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