I had a few issues with that review (if you read the comments section) but for the most point the review is valid, in particular the ergonomics and interface issues (no background downloading is a serious issue for a DL-only handheld device). I still don't see how the PSP-Go will 'fail' though, given the PSP-3000 is out, the PSP-Go is basically a reskinned PSP-3000 using the existing PSN network infrastructure, the cost of development would not be significantly high, so even a few million sales will probably break even for Sony. Sony are offering consumers a choice, I don't see an issue with that.

I'm still unsure if I get a PSP-Go, if it drops down to $200 then I think I definitely will, and as for the interface issues, would not be surprised to see them get fixed in the coming months through firmware updates. Ergonomics, well once you get used to them it's not really an issue. People game on a iPhone and that would have to be one of the most uncomfortable gaming devices I know.

You can cut the download time by using the PC to download, then copy games onto PSPGo....

Like I've said before, though... PSP 4000 + 32GB memory Stick = all I need.

@ameratsu

Right now they're not applying it to the entire PSP platform, as you will still be able to buy PSP3000 models and UMDs for them.
They are testing the idea of digital-only distribution with a premium model that -allegedly- offsets its deficits with portabilty a-la iPod nano.

^

Exactly.

What seems to be so incredibly lost on people is that the PSPGo is not a replacement or a successor to the PSP-3000. If people don't like it, they aren't forced to upgrade. The PSP-3000 and UMD games will still be available. This is mostly targeted at early adapters who won't mind the high price so that they can test and get feedback for a download-only handheld. It's not like Sony expects existing PSP owners to sell their systems and go out in droves to buy this thing.

The PSP Go is so much fail, it isn't even funny. I think Sony is again being completely unrealistic about their position in the handheld marked. The only marked they have a real foothold in is Japan, and the PSP Go will ensure that won't change.

who would seriously buy this if they really had any kind of intelegence? Does this thing really have anything that is needed that you can't get from a PSP-3000? I saw one person buy it so far and I havn't heard of another customer come in... when I do eventually pick up a PSP it wont be this POS

i am happy with my PSP3000 no PSPGO for me

I thought it was overpriced too, but after playing with one, like Twestern said, I realized how awesome it is. Is it perfect? No. But I tell you this - the PSP Go doesn't have the same following as the iPhone, nor the amount of apps that the iPhone has.

Plus, this move to digital downloads handled by Sony appears to be a power move. It's all about control. It will fall far short to dethrone the iPhone, iTouch or the DSi.

Millions have paid $600 for an iPhone and waited in line for one. I just flipped an iPhone with a broken screen for $225 and had dozens of inquiries. The PSP-Go will be appealing to some, but won't come close to hurting the DSi, IMHO.

I think if they had included a touch screen, they really could have provided serious competition for the iPod. The touch screen wold have allowed thing like text messaging, better browsing and easier navigation. It would have made the PSP Go usable in closed configuration. Being able to flip through music or text message while closed would have been a huge feature. This was Sony's biggest omission. A touch screen would have justified the $250 price.

A touch screen would have been very, very sweet. I just sold my Touch and iPhone and loved both of them. The real reason for the success has been the insane number of apps available. That really, really adds value to the iPod. I have a crackberry from work and I love it but it doesn't have many of the way-cool apps the iPods have.