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PSP2
"Reports claim Q4 release, dual sticks, HD screen; source tells us that�s a �reasonable description�.
Reports today claim that Sony�s long-rumoured PSP successor is as powerful as the PlayStation 3, with a source confirming to us this morning that the leaks are a �reasonable description� of the device�s capability.
MCV reports that Sony has made the claim to its licensees, and is pitching the HD handheld as a �high-end portable equivalent� of PS3.
The console is expected to be announced at a modest event in Tokyo on January 27. A fourth quarter launch � possibly as early as October � has been reported, and the system includes an HD screen.
Perhaps most importantly for Sony�s intent to pitch the device as a portable PS3, the device apparently has dual analogue sticks. Sony is specifically asking developers to focus on deep, content-rich game experiences to differentiate PSP2 from app-focused smartphones.
While the PSP redesign PSPgo dropped support for UMD media in favour of downloads, Sony intends to keep retail on side by making use of a media format, though it will also offer downloads of smaller games and apps through PSN.
According to a source with experience of working on the device, the reports are �a perfectly reasonable description of the hardware�s capabilities.� Our source also notes that in comparison to 3DS, PSP2�s processing power is �comparable to the difference which exists between PSP and DS.�
If true, the decision to announce the device just eight days after Nintendo�s European 3DS launch event, in Amsterdam on January 19, indicates confidence on Sony�s part that its PSP successor can compete with Nintendo�s hotly anticipated 3D device, which is released in Japan next month and is expected to make its European debut in March."
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