PSP Go is in Stores, Ready to Roll

Sony’s taking a big plunge today, launching the download-only PSP Go. This is the first dedicated handheld gaming console that will only support digital video game downloads. Unlike the existing PSP-3000 and its predecessors, there’s no slot for UMD or any other physical media. All of the Go’s games and movies can be grabbed through the Playstation Store, either via Wi-Fi or through a connected computer.

It’s been reported that the PSP Go is launching with 100 games, though there actually may be more available. On the official Playstation blog, Sony Hardware Marketing Director John Koller said 150 PSP games, previously available on UMD, will be up for download. There are also a handful of cheaper, smaller-scale games, called “PSP Minis,” and roughly 60 classic PS1 games. More than 2,300 movies and 13,000 TV shows are also available.

Sony has said that it will keep supporting the PSP-3000 and the UMD format, so the company isn’t diving completely into download territory. I can understand that, as the PSP Go is a risky maneuver. For as much excitement as there is about the handheld, there’s also a lot of skepticism from people who like being able borrow, sell and trade their physical media. And at $250, the PSP Go is competing not only with the iPod Touch and the Nintendo DS, but the $170 PSP-3000 as well. Sony shouldn’t have a problem with that. [via Playstation.Blog]

PSP Go Gallery