First of two handhelds released by Nintendo last year, the Nintendo DS features two LCD screens, one of which is a touch screen. It also comes preloaded with Nintendo’s Homebrew application which allows Consumers to load homebrew software on the console. operational problems with the hardware and frequent software issues led to the early shutdown of the distribution channel and a temporarily halting of sales.
Questioned by CNET regarding whether the PSP was better than or equal to the DS, analyst Brian predicted that given the number of third party software publishers on the DS, the PSP would likely to be the system of choice.
However, due to the increasing popularity of the handheld video console, Sony announced that it would be creating a new line of “PSP Value Packs;” complete with new firmware, new accessories and new games. Details are sketchy but according to Sony’s Ken Kutaragi, head of unit sales and strategic marketing for Europe, the new releases will include cameras for new video editing features and specialized gamepads.
Nintendo DS Vs Sony PSP
Sony looks to cash in on the DS’s success and the PSP has already been used by many on their travels. Detailed information on the PSP’s USP are that it features a slide-screen LCD screen and the Video output is dependent on TV format, with DVD-video and 16:9 widescreen options. Additionally, the PSP is equipped with a microphone and able to support both wi-fi and 3G data connectivity.
Sony will be following its last full quarter earnings report with a statement from management board member Meg Suzuki, praising the PSP and its games, while cautioning that the company’s other products need “to perform” in order to reach their target of earning nearly $8 billion in sales.
North American Nintendo DS sales are set to fall short of expectations this quarter as sales appear to be negative as game software sales are weak compared to the launches of both Microsoft’s Xbox and Sony’s PlayStation.
Nintendo will be dependent on the performance of its slot-held console as it battles a rear-guard situation during the current console wars.
Microsoft has enjoyed a much more advantageous position than Sony this year. The Xbox 360 has a head start over the PlayStation 3 since its launch, but this unit has been out for more than a year. However, the added strength of the Xbox 360 hand held console allows it to more easily out sell the competition.
Nintendo will be dependent on its ability to successfully introduce wireless capabilities to its systems and gain market share, with the latest buzz being that they are going through their motions regarding the wireless controller technology.
These being said, the Xbox 360 has proven to be more powerful than the Nintendo DS. The Xbox 360’s launch lineup has been announced to be a blockbuster sequel compared to the original launch lineup. For Microsoft, this is artificial limitation for their console, since they are already building on the 360’s success and tribe of game exclusives.
The Xbox 360 has 2 main Exclusives: the Gears of War and Halo 3. Additionally, Microsoft has been pretty mum about the other hardware and software that will soon be hitting the market. However, we have learned to expect the Xbox 360 to have more than enough horsepower and gaming library to provide Microsoft with a wonderful set of games.
Microsoft will be implementing almost all of the services that consumers can easily take advantage of. No additional services or features will be added because services are expected to be simple and “just good enough” as a middle ground between Xbox and Windows PCs, Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.
Microsoft will have to work carefully to include services that tap into a gamer’s desire and capability for personalization and trade-in value. It is those considering Buying an Xbox 360 to take advantage of the best parts of Xbox 360.
Customers who are considering purchasing an Xbox 360 need to understand that, as of now, there is no real advantage other than having an Xbox 360 to play their favorite games. The PS3 allows you to play games as well as watch videos and listen to music.
Being a powerful console, the Xbox 360 is basically a “be all powerful” gaming system. In a nutshell, this means that in addition to playing games, it is expected that an Xbox 360 will quickly run all your casual games and even the most fanatic of roms, for example, without difficulty.
The Xbox 360 is the final word- probably the last word in gaming power. So be prepared to be so overwhelmed by the Xbox 360’s capabilities, you’ll find yourself having to hold localization for basic functions the first time you try to transfer files back and forth between PCs.
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