Editorial Review

The era of no-compromises handheld gaming has arrived. Get ready for immersive, 3D gaming on a console that is poised

to change the way we think about portable devices. With wireless internet, video and digital music playback, and incredible data storage and connectivity options, the Sony PSP--or PlayStation Portable--is a complete solution for the mobile digital lifestyle. Sony has hit the mark by combining both horsepower and groundbreaking features into a package that weighs just a hair more than half a pound.

Design
The PSP's exceptional performance comes from a 333 MHz processor that dwarfs the speed of competing handheld consoles. Add this polygon-pushing muscle to 4 MB of fast DRAM and 32 MB of embedded RAM, and you've got a device with graphics rendering capabilities close to that of the PlayStation2. And because no game is complete without audio, the PSP is generously appointed with built-in stereo speakers, as well Dolby Digital 7.1 surround soundcapability. Sony has also pulled out all the stops with the PSP display. The bright, 4.3-inch LCD sports a 16:9 aspect ratio and 480 x 272 pixel resolution--plenty of real estate for heavy gaming action and widescreen-format movies. All of this is powered by a removable, and rechargeable, lithium-ion battery.

Screen machine: The 4.3-inch display sports a 16:9 aspect ratio and 480 x 272 pixel resolution. Movies and games on the go have never been more gorgeous.

From a controls perspective, the PSP is made for gaming. If you're familiar with a PlayStation controller, you'll be a pro at the PSP's controls in no time. Directional buttons, as well as an analog stick are provided. Meanwhile, the familiar left and right shoulder buttons, as well as triangle, circle, cross and square buttons are integrated into the device's slim case. Finally, home, select, and start buttons give you quick access and control over the PSP's important functions.

To have and to hold: The PSP's easy-to-master controls are cleverly integrated into the device's slim profile.

Supported Media
At the heart of the PSP is a new, proprietary media format known as the Universal Media Disc, or UMD. Each UMD can hold 1.8 GB of data, enough room for rich and complex games. UMDs, which are housed in a protective cover, slide into the rear of the PSP. Sony has declared the UMD an open format for developers and media content owners, so movies, music and other media are on the horizon from third parties. Sony has also signed on many popular game developers for the platform, so a deep library of titles is on tap.

While the UMD is great for read-only media such as games and movies, Sony solves the problem of data storage with the addition of a Memory Stick Duo slot. With Memory Stick Duo media, you can store your saved games, downloaded online content, personal video and audio files, and more. When you want access to these files from your PC, simply use the PSP's USB 2.0 port to turn the device into a fastportable media drive. Then, drag and drop files such as your photos, MP3s, and videos onto the PSP, just as you would any other removable storage device. The PSP ships with a 32 MB Memory Stick Duo, and additional media with higher storage capacities are available.

Major media: Sony's PSP-compatible Universal Media Disc (UMD) can hold 1.8 GB of data.

Connectivity
The PSP blows away the competition in the connectivity department. Indeed, the PSP's ability to connect to the internet, and to other PSPs and USB-based peripherals, is a real advantage. At the top of the list is Wifi connectivity, or IEEE 801.11b. Use this wireless internet standard to connect to other gamers around the world for hot multiplayer action--all from your couch, or your local Wifi hotspot. As mentioned, the PSP's USB 2.0 port is great for PC connectivity, but it also opens the PSP up for a whole range of future peripherals. Sony has plans for the PSP in other ways, too; the unit's infrared port speaks of remote control capabilities in the near future.

A Digital Companion
If you haven't already guessed, Sony has positioned the PSP to be much more than a gaming device. Out of the box, the device is ready to serve as a portable video player and photo viewer. By using the new H.264 MPEG-4 video standard, Sony obviously has its eyes on making the PSP a robust video device with support for feature length movies and more.In addition, the PSP offers a great way to transport and share your photos in JPEG format. And let's not forget the music. Load up your favorite MP3-encoded songs onto a Memory Stick Duo and you've got a portable audio powerhouse. The device also supports Sony's ATRACaudio codec, so you can play songs acquired from Sony's Connect Online Music Store. Sony even ships a nifty pair of earbuds--complete with an inline remote control-- with the PSP.

What's in the Box
PSP device, AC adapter, battery pack, 32 MB Memory Stick Duo, earbud headphones with remote control, soft case and hand strap. ... Read more

Features

• Sony PSP Specifications and Features:
• Dimensions: Approximately 6.7 in (W) x .9 in (H) x 2.9 in (D)
• Weight: .62 lbs (including battery)
• CPU: Proprietary PSP CPU
• Main Memory: 32MB

Reviews (465)

Way too much $$$!!!
The PSP is good I'll give it that, but I think that Sony is cramming too much stuff into thier first handheld. Make it more simple. plus it is WAAAAAAAY too much money, my parents are not gonna spend that much for me, and it's just not worth that much, nor should anyone have to spend that much on a system meant for gaming, with a few extra goodies thrown in. You over obsesive gamers...-_-

way out in front
I just got my new PSP. Initial impressions - a very serious piece of kit. It's beautifully constructed, but looks like it wouldn't survive a big drop. It certainly has an 'adult' feel to it - not the 'mainly for kids' that the Nintendo DS exudes.

I loaded Ridge Racer in and was just taken aback by the quality of the graphics, game play and sound. It really is just like having a PS2 that you can stick in your back pocket.

The quality of the movie trailers on the sample disc are just out of this world, as is the sound. The remote control has a light, really cheap feel to it but works perfectly well.

Even being out of the box for an hour the screen is attracting dust underneath so a screen protector is definitely called for, as is a memory card-coz 32MB is no use at all!

I was expecting a lot from the PSP having read many reviews, but it's actually exceeded my expectations. The large screen is just amazing - far ahead of anything else in it's class. I'm on the lookout for dead pixels - but so far the PSP is way ahead of it's competition.

pros and cons
PSP is more suitable for extreme gamers. It's sleek, mature look are more suitable for teenagers or adults. For kids, I recommend GBA SP or GBA DS. The selection of games are more in tune with popular titles like POKEMON. PSP is more for teens as it has more action and maybe violence in it. The selection of games are more like racing, sports...things that usually does not appeal to children.

Next, I want to enphasise on the use of memory sticks in PSP. Everything must be stored in memory sticks so it is a bit inconvenient. What more, the memory sticks cost quite a sum so be prepared to spend lots of money on them.

But, the graphics on PSP are way better than those found on GBA. It is capable of displaying about 15 million colurs wherelse GBA DS can only display 260,000 colours only.

So as to conclude the end of this review, PSP's graphics and features are good. But think about the amount of money to spend on memory cards...think twice. ... Read more

Features

• Build the Ultimate Tuner: Customize up to twenty high-performance tuner cars then hit the streets to see who rules the underground.
• Exclusive PSP System Circuits: Accelerate to top speeds on ten visually distinct circuit tracks exclusive to the PSP system.
• Eight Game Modes: Including Drift Attack, Nitrous Run, Rally Relay, and Car Spec.
• Go for a SpinAnytime, Anywhere: Engage in two-player head-to-head battles via Wi-Fi or challenge up to four rivals on one PSP system device in Party Play.
• Pocket TRAX: Listen to music or watch videos on the go with this exclusive new feature for the PSP system.

Reviews (15)

Awesome Game for PSP
I own MLB, Untold Legends, Need for Speed Rivals and Ridge Racer. Need for Speed is by far the best game I've played so far. Some say Ridge Racer is better but, NO WAY!!! The car mods is what does it. Their are so many mods to add to the car to make it faster and look better. The more you play the more mods you can get. It makes you not want to put the game down because you can't wait to see what the next mod will be. The graphics are awesome and also the sound. I've played this game for about 15 hours and there's so much more left. I highly recommend this game.
P.S. MLB is great also. =)

Another Racer Is Born!
I just played this game last nite with friends, and I REALLY LIKE IT!!!It's funny when all of a sudden your opponent races right over you and takes the lead...But it's a lot of fun...Now I'm gonna have to get this one too...Thanx guys for getting me hooked...You all know who you b... (TT and your wingman, GC.)

Not a bad game at all
A lot of people will think that this game is just like the continuation of Need For Speed Underground 2.Well, it is somewhat true.However, this is just a "beating a rival" game so it is a pretty straight foward game.I personally think that it is not bad, but it could be a little bit dull.Well, if you have beaten the game of NFSU2 in PS2, you don't have problem playing this one.For the graphics, it is not bad but couldn't compare the graphics of NFSU2 in PS2 and Ridge Racer in PS2 and PSP.These game has some upper hand of those.But still, this is still a good game to recommend. ... Read more

Features

• Wireless Multiplayer Races: Compete head-to-head in 8-player multiplayer races through the PSP wireless connectivity feature. Multiplayer races require every player to have the Ridge Racer game inserted into their PSP system.
• Unprecedented Visual Quality: Experience DVD quality video in the 16:9 widescreen format, and enjoy more clean edged designs and richer colors on the high quality PSP system's liquid crystal screen.
• Robust Vehicle and Course Selections: Featuring 58 new vehicles, upgrades and 24 courses- the largest number of courses in the series! Classic courses from previous Ridge Racer titles return with entirely updated graphics leveraging the awesome processing power of the PSP.
• New "World Tour" Mode: In the newly added World Tour Mode, players challenge the vast number of courses from the first Ridge Racer introduced in 1993, to the latest in the Ridge Racer world.
• Special Features: Race faster than ever utilizing nitrous! Drift to fill thenew "Nitro Gauge" then boost ahead to burn the competetion. Conquer the World Tour Mode to unlock cars, courses, new tours, and more!

Reviews (23)

Tremendous game
This is obviously a tremendous "Ridge Racer" game in all-time period.Although PSP is much smaller than PS2, it has the good graphics that every people want.The game itself is good and exciting.It provides all the circuits that I played before from 12 years ago in 1993 to 2000 (10/26/2000).For the circuits, I still like the short circuit from Ridge Racer 1 because "it never gets old."Sounds true, huh?So, no matter what, this is the game, baby!! :)

A little warning
I rate how much I like video games by how much I enjoy it and by how long it takes to win. Ridge Racer is addicting, and I spent plenty of time on it, but found that I'd unlocked all the tours in less than five days. It's hard to win all the tours, though, so that might keep me occupied for a while. Still, many would find it discouraging to go around the same track over and over and over. If you can rent it or borrow it from a friend, do so. If you can only buy it, go for it, but be ready to want to trade it in after a few weeks.

Stunning
I made an impulsive decision yesterday by buying the PSP. Just in case you didn't know, I'm from Singapore, and Sony only officially launched the"ultimate portable gaming console" at this part of the world yesterday. I walked past the shop, took a look at the demo, and took out my credit card.

Going home together with me is the inaugural title for the PSP, the racing classic Ridge Racer. I've played the game on my wife's colleague's parallel-imported PSP some months ago, and was pretty impressed by the look of things. But it was only when I had the time to finally take on the game on a more prolonged duration, that I fully appreciate the beauty of it. And it is, as I mentioned, just beautiful.

The thing that immediately captures your attention is obviously the graphics. Fantastic is an understatement when it comes to how good Ridge Racer looks. Even when you're primarily focused on the road while racing, you can't help but notice the amazingly detailed background. For one, your races will take you thought different hours of the day, which means you'll come across the brightness of the day, as well as the cosiness of sunset. During different courses, you may also notice an airplane flying above you; or see yourself driving past an awe-inspiring lake; or a crowd of spectators cheering you on... you get the idea.

The graphics also put a lot of emphasis on speed. So when you're bursting down the road at 240km/h in a tunnel, you'll find the background fading away in a blur to create a sense of speed. The best part, however, is that the frame rate never seems to skip a beat despite the extensive graphics. Having the screen freezing for moments while I go side-by-side with a rival car in other racing games (such as Burnout) on the PS2 is definitely not a problem for the PSP and Ridge Racer.

You've a few options to approach the game, while single events like Single Race and Time Attack may be a good training ground for newbies, you'd expect to spend most of your time unlocking new tracks and cars in the World Tour mode. The earlier tours are relatively easy to pass, but from what I heard, it just get tougher as it goes, so expect to redo races a lot of times as you progress. Oh, and did I mention you can have a wireless racing session with your friends if they also own the PSP?

The controls are relatively standard. You've the X button for acceleration, and Square Button for brakes. If you're using the manual gear, the Triangle button shifts a gear up, and the Circle Button shifts a gear down. The "L" button switches between first and third person view, and the "R" button activates the nitro you earn while doing power drifts during corners. Oh, and you also control the direction using the D-Pad, but I'm sure you already know that. The controls make reduce the need for any tedious learning curve, and make sure that you can start right away to do the thing that you bought the game. That is, to play!

Now, the next big thing for this game. The audios. If you're played earlier renditions of Ridge Racer, you should have knowledge of how cool the soundtrack, er, sounds. You get some rehashed tracks, as well as new tracks that really make it a joy to listen while you take on the competition. You'll also get to select from different playlists, so you're by no means stuck with what you don't like. An archive is also available for you to listen to remixes of old Ridge Racer tracks. Now, for the nostalgic fan, this is really a cool idea.

On the whole, Ridge Racer is a testament to how good a game can be on the PSP. If you're not a Ridge Racer fan, you may not enjoy it as much as those who're. Still, you can't deny that the graphics and audios in this game are worth another look. It's a pity that the sound couldn't do better, due to the limitations of the console itself. Listening to music on the PSP without earphones is like listening to a badly tuned FM receiver in my opinion, but then again, earphones are provided! Anyhow, I'd highly recommend Ridge Racer for fans of the racing genre, if only just to enjoy the beauty of the game's aesthetics. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Video Games    2. PS2 (PSX2)    3. Sony Playstation (Play station) 2    4. Playstation2 (Play station2)    5. Racing    6. Flying   

Features

• Action RPG: Wield your blade and cast powerful spells in this action-packed, hack n slash RPG exclusively for the PSP handheld system.
• Epic Adventure: Create a unique hero and set out into the wilds of Unataca to battle powerful creatures, save your city of Aven from imminent extinction and unravel the mysteries of a looming peril.
• Wireless Multiplayer Game Play: A wireless multiplayer mode features gameplay through the PSP handheld systems wireless feature. Connect directly other PSP handheld systems for the ultimate in hack n slash action with no wires!
• Four Playable Character Classes: Select from four unique character classes including an ancient order of valiant Knights, a foundation of brilliant Alchemists, an order of noble Druids, and a race of feral hunters known as the Berserker. Each character class has unique fighting abilities or magical spells.
• Beautiful 3D Environments: Battle through more than 100 diverse levels that come alive with brilliant 3Dgraphics, stunning lighting, dynamic visual effects and highly-detailed player characters and monsters.

Reviews (22)

Maybe a little repetetive...
This is definitely a fun game. While Ridge Racers, the other big launch title, only lasts for a week or so, I find myself still trying to get to the end of this game after a month and a half. It gets a little repetetive, with all the X-button pushing, but it's fun and all the items make it interesting. The plot really stinks at first, but if you stick with it, it gets better. Also, load times are very long, but you can get over that pretty quickly. Definitely worth the buy; you'll invest plenty of time in it.

Hack n' Slash Adventures!
The character enhancement tree is amazing, I love how it varies for each of the character classes. The weapons and armor also vary through the different classes, and can be customized in many ways. The jewelry adds a nice touch for increasing for Strength, Dexterity, Stamina, and Intelligence. Your character can be customized in many ways such as hair stlye, and colour. The skin tone can also be changed. The thing that isn't great is there is no gender change, but covering up the distinguishing male and female marks can be covered up by armor. This game have very many missions which are easy to follow, but challenging to complete. This game will kepp you playing for hours on end!

5 Stars From the_truth!

Untold Hours Spent Playing This Game!!!
Absolutely Frakkin' Awesome!!!

I have never before played a portable game that was as good or better than a PC game. Now I have. ... Read more

Editorial Review

The layout of PlayStation2's Dual Shock 2 controller is nearly identical to that of the original PlayStation's Dual Shock controller, which is good news for most gamers. The main new feature is that, when the buttons are pushed, the controller can register how much pressure is being exerted. This adds a completely new dimension to sports, racing, fighting, and more games. Aside from the Start and Select buttons, all of the functions are analog for greater control, a wider variety of operations, and a more compelling interactive experience. Two convex analog thumb pads and two force-feedback solenoid rumblers round out the features. This controller is also compatible with all software that supports the original Dual Shock controller. ... Read more

Reviews (186)

Best PS2 controller out there!
First of all, let me clear up something that seems to have alot of people confused around here. The Sony Dualshock 2 IS NOT the same thing as the Sony Dualshock Controller. It is, in fact, VERY different! The Dualshock 2 has fully analog buttons and D-Pad. For those of you who do not know what this means (and there seem to be many of you), it means that its pressure sensative. So, say, if your playing GTA then you can press gently to drive along very slowly, or jam the button down to floor it. You do not have any of these features on the normal Dualshock, and sony is not just trying to make you shell out money for no reason.

And so anyway, all that said, the Dualshock 2 is most likely the best PS2 controller out there. I owned a 3rd party controller for not very long until the analog sticks started going wacko on me and i was forced to get an official Sony one again, but i'm glad i did. It's very comfortable to hold, and the buttons are in very easy to remember places, unlike the Gamecube's controller, and i have yet to find a more durable controller than this.

With all that said, i hope you'll pay a little extra for this high quality controller and not be fooled into buying cheap, 3rd party knockoffs.

By the way, dont get confused and buy those PS2 controllers that look nearly the same as the official Dualshock. The only way to tell the difference is that thay don't say Sony Playstation on the face of them.

It's good enough for my usage.
I recieved this controller when I bought my PS2, and I have to say I like it, it's nice and comfey, but when I first used it, it struck me as lighter than the PS1 controller, which I later figured out why when I opened the controller up. I am sorry to say that, unlike with the PS1 controllers, the Dual Shock 2 doesn't have the feature that the PS1 did. That is, the rumbler wasn't as safely tucked in, as many of us like to toss our controllers around. I was dissapointed when the plastic casing housing the rumbler was snapped, and the rumbler itself was misplaced. This is a definite issue, as I like to play my racing games, and racing games require a rumbler. I also was disappointed by the fact that you can't switch components of PS 1 controllers into the Dual shock 2, but then I discovered I can use PS1 for my racing games. Overall, I'll only use it when I must, but if I don't have to, then I will switch with my Old Faithful PS1 controller. One word of advice, don't throw this too hard, you'll break the plastic around the rumbler.

Great Controller
This is one of the best controlers you can get for the ps2. It feels good when you're holding it and the buttons are easy to access. The pressure sensitive system works great and so does the rumbler. But like all other controllers, if you play for too long, your hands get sweaty and you hand slipps. If this is a problem you should get nyko's airflow controler, but either way this is a GREAT controller for all ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Cables (Cable)    2. Adapters (Adapter)    3. PS2 (PSX2)    4. Sony Playstation (Play station) 2    5. Playstation2 (Play station2)    6. Great Deals (Outlet store)    7. Cases    8. Storage    9. Video Games    10. Sony Playstation (Play station)    11. PSX (PS1 PSOne PS (1 one I)    12. Controller    13. Rumble Packs (Paks)   

Features

• Entirely new Metal Gear game and story developed for the PSP
• Use over 200 strategic battle cards to accomplish the mission, including weapon, action and character cards
• Purchase new cards to enhance your infiltration strategy and discover new cards as you play
• Different card decks give you new abilities and actions unique to the theme of the deck
• Experience a deeper level of tactical espionage using a turn-based strategy system

Reviews (31)

I'd stay away from this one
OK, I played Metal Gear YEARS ago when it first came out on Nintendo. i played a few times with newer games, but I have not been a big game player since my early teen years. Now, at 27, Ithought this system looked great, so I bought it and Metal Gear at the same time, since I thought it would be like the older ones from years ago.Boy was I wrong.I like a game you can just start and go, but this is not that kind of game. This has a card system that you have to use to move and do everything with.Too confusing for an old school gamer like me!

NO SIR!I DON'T LIKE IT
Metal Gear is not, i repeat NOT made to be a card game.What were they thinking.

The Don

Just doesn't add up for me
I really think that a card-based strategy game just doesn't work out for Metal Gear. The cut scenes are long, and you're mostly just staring at the same image for fifteen minutes.
When it comes to gameplay, I was baffled. I first tried to sneak around everyone, like you should in a Metal Gear game, but that never worked out. Then, I'd try to just kill anyone that was too close to me, but that didn't work because I never got the cards I needed. Then, once I was finished with the missions, I'd always get a D or lower, because they mark you down if you kill someone, are seen, or take to long, which I always did.

Buy this game at your own risk, because it's frustrating and takes some patience. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Video Games    2. PS2 (PSX2)    3. Sony Playstation (Play station) 2    4. Playstation2 (Play station2)    5. Action    6. Adventure   

Reviews (23)

Best thing if there is more than one player
My self, my wife, and the the two boyz we have are all playing with the PS2. Each has his/her own game and savings. This is a must if you have more than one player using the game. Each has his memory card (stick) and has his/her own game levels saved on it. Never had any trouble with any of them, nor did it ever hang on me. I am truely satisfied with the product.

Great cards
There really isn't any flaws with these memory cards and buying two instead of one is alot better than buying 2 seperately and it'll save you some bucks. The only thing is that if you have 3 or more games that use 2000+K memory space you might wand to consider the 32MB memory card that codejunkies makes.

Must Have For A Playstation2 Owner
I am a frequent playstation2 player and this is a neccessity. I have been getting games since the PS2 came out, and I have over 50 videogames so I have a total of 5 memory cards and they are all full. If you play videogames you are going to need at least one, but it is much cheaper to buy this pack and they come in cool red and blue colors. Some videogames take up ALOT of space on the memory card such as the Jak series and Madden NFL Football series. I reccomend this product to ANY PS2 owner and I suggest buying two of these because in the long run you are going to need them. If you are going to buy someone a PS2 you need to buy them this and an extra controller because if you don't they will very dissapointed. You can't go wrong with this product and I do not reccomend buying ANY non-Sony produuct including memory cards. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Video Games    2. Sony Playstation (Play station)    3. PSX (PS1 PSOne PS (1 one I)    4. Controller    5. Rumble Packs (Paks)    6. Cables (Cable)    7. Adapters (Adapter)    8. PS2 (PSX2)    9. Sony Playstation (Play station) 2    10. Playstation2 (Play station2)    11. Memory cards    12. Great Deals (Outlet store)    13. Cases    14. Storage   

Features

• Bust blocks, groove through puzzles, and jam wirelessly with friends. Stack em right and youll unlock lush looks and buttery beats. Want to be lumines? Just let the music guide you.
• "Advance through 24 action-packed levels, each with its own musical theme and sound effects.
• 4 gameplay modes including single-player and multiplayer ensure varied and lengthy gameplay. Time attacks, duels, and puzzle challenges await!
• Unlock new customizable skins and avatars as you progress. Flaunt your progress in multiplayer mode; push your opponent right off the screen.
• Challenge yourself, or go head to head with an opponent via wireless multiplayer functionality.

Reviews (26)

New twist on tetris
I've seen a few variations of Tetris since it was first released.. well the first version I ever saw was on an Apple IIc that was a pirated and completely in russian.

Lumines is pretty simple, form 4 small blocks of the same color into a square by shifting, sliding and spinning 4 block combos that drop from the sky.Make high score, start over. You could add on that you can also play head to head with other PSP players or try a few of the other modes with specialized goals.
For some reason I get drawn into a cycle of playing one game after another cause I messed up just a little bit on the last one and could have done better.

Each time you last out a level (timed, so your not penalized by making bonus points like you did in tetris), you open up a new "skin" with a different song and visual background/blocks.

This was the third game i've bought for my psp so far and it is the most addictive.Even though its not as flashy or involved as some of the other titles, its definately packed with fun.

Tetris wishes it was as cool as Lumines
Okay so a lot of other reviews will focus on things like the amazing music, flashy graphics, rotating skins, and so forth.But the fun of Lumines is mostly in gameplay, which requires a lot more skill than tetris ever did.

Everybody's going to compare this game to Tetris because it has four-part pieces that fall onto the screen where you place the pieces in order to get points and clear blocks.Let me be clear in saying that this is ALL they have in common.Clearing lines in tetris is easy, and the only skill involved is being able to move the piece fast enough before it falls.

Lumines is a whole new kind of game.Each piece is a 2x2 block where each little block is one of two colors.Your goal is to make squares of 2x2 blocks that are the same color.This sounds easy enough, but it isn't, always.Not only can you make blocks of 2x2, but these blocks can overlap each other, so a block of 3x2 works, or any other combination of shapes where the 2x2 blocks can be found.This means there's a lot of strategy in laying down a block in order to maximize the number of cubes it makes.

What's also innovative about this game is the "timeline" which scrolls across the screen, clearing the cubes you've made.That's right, a cube doesn't disappear as soon as you've made it.. it takes a few seconds, which allows you to stack multiple pieces together to form more and more overlapping cubes before the timeline swipes them away.but if you don't do it quick enough, you'll only get part of your cube cleared and be left with the rest.

The skill and strategy involved with dropping each piece in the right place at the right time is immense, and takes far more brainpower than tetris ever could.That's what makes this game so fun.

Another little feature I will mention about the skins, some of them seem designed specifically to be harder to see, so that placing the blocks isn't as easy as it was with other skins.On other levels the timeline will move slower or faster, further changing the dynamics of the game (you'd think a slower timeline would let you create more blocks, but if you've got a full screen it can be a nightmare waiting for your screen to open up).

I should point out that there are a few annoying bugs in Lumines that, for instance, won't save your scores all the time.The instructions are also pretty unclear about the details of the vs. modes, where you can attack your opponent (which moves the border of your screen over one, giving you more room to work and your opponent less), but they don't tell you exactly how to attack.Finally from what i've read, you cannot score higher than 999,999 which is a bit ridiculous for a system of this level. Hopefully someday there will be a Lumines 2 that fixes these problems, but in the meantime this game is good enough for me.

Perpetual Harmony
Tetris quite frankly bores me.It dominated a large sum of my time and now I dread its remade counterparts.Why do I enjoy Lumines?It breaks out of the norm so many block puzzle-games take.A new perspective and enjoyable mix-up of gameplay makes it a favorite for the PSP, although I would not go as far as calling the game revolutionary or mind-blowing.

If you've played "Rez" or any other games set to music and beats you already know how these games strike an incredibly fun chord, and why they are must buys.But if not the I'll let you in on the twist, with each stage clear new eye-candy appears in the background and a tune begins.With the beat of the song a timer swipes across the screen stack as many of the square style blocks before the time between beats is over and rack up combos.Then watch to your amusement as your towers fall causing chain-reactions multiplying in more blocks made, and a higher score.

I admit to playing the game in a trance-like state watching the blocks flow and hearing the music blend to find myself going on half an hour of play without noticing.Unlocking new songs, and backgrounds give just enough initiative to keep playing you up into the night.

Overall Lumines is fun but not my pick over a console game with more of a story.It's perfect for a portable platform and a great game for the PSP.
A Bliss of 7 ... Read more

Features

• 16 Futuristic, anti-gravity racing tracks
• 5 Different speed classes
• Single Race, Tournament, Time Trial, Free Play, and Zone Mode (single-player only)
• Fresh downloadable content that can be saved to a Memory Stick Duo, such as new tracks, ships, skins and music

Reviews (22)

Great game!
Awesome laucnh title - love it!!The look and feel of the Wipeout series has been perfectly captured on the new platform. Difficulty ramps up nicely after you mosey around the tracks on the starter levels and unlock the faster levels.Free-practice lets you learn a track inside and out until you're ready to take on a real race.
And once you're sick of playing against the AI it's dead-simple to challenge your mates head-on or merge their best lap-times with yours to beat on the tube.

There is however a gripe: you have to go through about 6 screens before you get to the main menu.. so switching from listening to music to playing Wipeout Pure takes quite a while.There should be a 'quick-launch' option - straight into the main menu with your save game auto-loaded.

A truly impressive game.....at first
WipEout Pure has proven to be one of the most visually stunning games I have ever seen on a portable handheld. The gameplay is mad-fun, sound and special effects are unparalled, and the music is pretty neat too.

However, this game does have its serious flaws that cripple the fun-factor only a short time after playing this game for the first time; when playing against the AI in tournament mode, its a real fun challege- a game wouldnt really be fun at all if there was no challenge involved, but if the difficulty level is ludicrously high, winning and passing a race would become nearly impossible. This is highly evident as you ascend through the tournament, and namely, one or two race-maps in "Ascension" mode, while playing it in "Flash" difficulty. This is especially true for people who are new to the WipEout Pure series, like myself. I honestly hate this game only 5 days afterbuying it, and now regret spending those lousy 40 bucks on a game that could have been so great. That's what makes me have a serious grudge against some game developers- they can never learn from their previous mistakes, and will always recreate games with very few innovative features, which suffer from some sort of fatal gameplay-imbalancement. Why is this still happening to a game whose series has been around for nearly a decade now?

In addition, there are some minor framerate issues- but I'm not surprised about that due to the amazing graphics quality in this game. Music length and selection is quite poor, but what they already have (electronic-dance) is great, and fits very nicely with the gameplay.

I highly recommend this game for everyone - whether or not you're a beginner - but if you want to go ahead and buy it, don't be surprised if you get extremely frustrated with some racing events.

Hope this review helps.

Free psp !!!! No Joke!!!!
Wipeout pure is just as good as the rest, but in many ways better, smoother faster, and just funner! (...)! ... Read more

Features

• Career Mode: Create a golfer and build his skills and Compete against the pros from past and present in match play events, tournaments and challenge modes, proving youve got what it takes to become a legend of the game.
• Take on the All-Time Greats: Compete against the pros from past and present including Tiger Woods, Vijay Singh, Jack Nicklaus, and Arnold Palmer.
• 12 Highly Detailed Courses: Tee off the links of Sherwood Country Club, Pebble Beach, Harbor Town, Paradise Cove, and more.
• Wireless Head-to-Head Gameplay: Challenge your friends to five game modes including the all new Bingo Bango Bongo.
• Party Play: Four players compete in different game modes using one PSP unit.

Reviews (6)

Probably the best handheld golf game
If you want a portable golf game that is very close to matching the console versions, then look no further. This is a great game that is a lot of fun to play and take with you on the PSP. This version still has the feature where you create your own golfer with lots of customizable options. You can also upgrade their skill points after earning some cash on the green. Its true that the load times are pretty long. Easily the longest I have seen when compared to the other PSP games I have. However, don't let that scare you off from playing a great game. The controls are very well done although its not quite as easy as on the consoles. Also, this game is much better on the PSP than it is on the GBA or DS. Anyways, this game is worth getting if your a golf fan and want a new game for your PSP.

Horrible load times
This game is very fun and has great game physics. It's definitely worth a buy but keep 2 things in mind. The graphics are good but just ok. I also have Ridge Racer and after seeing it, I know Tiger Woods could have looked better.

The second, more pressing issue is load times which are TERRIBLE. After ever screen choice the game loads and after ever hole the game loads. These aren't short, ready in a sec. load times either. It's about 30 seconds from hole to hole, 45 sec. to 1min between setting up a game and the worst is starting a new game from start up which literally takes 3 to 5 minutes. This is the reason I only put the device in sleep mode and don't completely power off because the load time is unacceptable.

Tee Time!!!
I love playing this game. This was one of the first titles I bought for my PSP when it was released. Granted some of the load times are a bit long, but if you have some time to spend you should definitely give this game a shot. The graphics are great for a handheld game. No other game even comes close to matching it. The real fun for me is the challenge of creating a golfer from scratch and improving upon his attributes until he's able to compete with Tiger or Vijay. I play as Tiger and win as much money as I can so that I can improve my created golfer. That's the quickest way to earn lots of money so that your golfer can be competitive in a short amount of time. I highly recommend this game. I think it's well worth the $50.00 you'll spend to get it. I hope this review was helpful... ... Read more

Editorial Review

Building a better system from the ground up sometimes involves digging into even the most mundane components. Take memory cards, for instance. To provide larger storage capacity and faster access rates--PlayStation2 cards transfer data 200 times faster than cards for the original PlayStation--PlayStation2 developers have upgraded the technology for the new memory card. The 8 MB Memory Card uses Flash Memory, the storage technology that's revolutionizing handheld computers, digital cameras, and MP3 players. In contrast, the 128 KB memory cards that were designed for the original PlayStation use memory blocks. While large files can spill over several blocks, you can't store more than one file per block in that design, no matter how small the file. The 8 MB Memory Card allieviates that problem by organizing and storing files much more like a computer hard disk. ... Read more

Reviews (222)

Building another Terminator
Using the technology from this 8MB Memory Card (left over from the dead Terminator), you should be able to construct another Terminator robot and send it through time.

If you create a bad Terminator robot, you should definitely soup it up like the A-Team van, with some crazy special powers that will help it destroy mankind.If you create a good Terminator robot, just make it like normal (and P.S. thanks for saving mankind).

good, not great
The official 8MB PS2 memory card is good if you have only a couple of games.otherwise you need to buy more than one.It is said that it runs 200 times faster, which isn't entirely accurate (usually about 185 times, but 200 is supposed to be the max).I bought this thing used for $17 dollars.That's expensive.If you have an oldr model of Playstation, it would be better to shell out $100 for Final Fantasy 11/hard drive bundle.The hard drive is 40 gigs, which is 5,120 times larger than this memory card.If you have a slim ps2, you can't use the hard drive.In that case, buy the 2 pack memory cards from Sony. It runs from $32 to $40, so get that package.Overall, a fast, reliable card, but Sony needs to produce larger cards.

be aware
ill tell you it is a good memory card but over time it will erase everything if you action replay max and if you use it on the getaway game it will erase every thing so if you have it just to let you know that ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Storage    2. Video Games    3. Sony Playstation (Play station)    4. PSX (PS1 PSOne PS (1 one I)    5. Controller    6. Rumble Packs (Paks)    7. Cables (Cable)    8. Adapters (Adapter)    9. PS2 (PSX2)    10. Sony Playstation (Play station) 2    11. Playstation2 (Play station2)    12. Memory cards    13. Great Deals (Outlet store)    14. Cases   

Features

• World Destruction Tour Take off on an all-new skating blitzkrieg where two teams led by Tony Hawk and Bam Margera conquer sick terrain, pull off mischievous pranks, and make a host of international cities their personal stomping ground.
• All-new levels, goals and level-changing events Tear it up in all-new PSP-exclusive levels including Las Vegas, Atlanta, Kyoto and Santa Cruz, each filled with crazy new goals, secret and unlockable characters, and line-changing level events.
• New multiplayer features Play over 10, four-player mini-games wirelessly such as Combo Mambo, SLAP! or Scavenger Hunt via the PSPs wireless network capabilities.

Reviews (6)

same story line but better stuff
in this game there are 4 new levels and more charecters. the graphics ar not as good as the ps2 version butt they are pretty sweet. you have all the create a modes except create a park which is a bummer. i had a glich on mine and my whole body disapeared. i put all the stuff back on my guy but no board because you cant put it back on. the 4 new levels tie in with the story mode. in story mode you get to choose which level you want to go to. you still have the levels you do not choose you just have to go back there unless you dont wanna.buy this game!! the game play is the same as the ps2 version except in here, you run all weird. HERE ARE THE CHEATCODES: (DONT CAPITILIZE IN GAME) PERFECT RAIL-TIGHTROPE. SOME SECRET CHARECTERS: BIRDMAN. type these in correctly and they wiil work. only for the psp though.

Hawk fans must buy this game
THUG 2 Remix for PSP may not be the perfect game for anyone, but if you are a big fan of the Tony Hawk series, then this game is your dream come true. When I made the decision to buy the PSP, I actually didn't even consider buying this game because I already had the PS2 version. Then I read that the PSP version contains four brand-new levels, and realized that I must buy it because I could never stand to miss any Tony Hawk levels. But after thinking about it, I realized that I would have ended up buying this game even without the new levels. Why? Because I love playing Tony Hawk games. It is the type of game that I can pick up any time and start playing, even if I'm not working on any particular goals. Having a Tony Hawk game at my fingertips 24/7 is why I bought this game.

There is plenty of gameplay here. There are more levels than I've bothered to count and you can play through them in both story mode (where the goals are kind of stupid) and classic mode (where the goals are like the older games and you have a 2:00 time limit). Plus, there is easy, normal, and sick difficulty levels, so the truly hardcore have a whole extra level of challenge to keep them playing longer.

I bought this game two weeks ago and I still cannot stop playing it, even though I already played through it on my PS2! If the Tony Hawk series even remotely grabs your interest, you should get this game.

good but not worth the price
gewd game if yur a thug fan. however, the price of it just isnt worth it, you mite as well buy teh ps2 version of it instead. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Video Games    2. PS2 (PSX2)    3. Sony Playstation (Play station) 2    4. Playstation2 (Play station2)    5. Sports    6. Outdoors   

Subjects:  1. Video Games    2. PS2 (PSX2)    3. Sony Playstation (Play station) 2    4. Playstation2 (Play station2)    5. Sports    6. Outdoors   

Features

• Realistic liquid Mercury properties combined with unique color blending.
• 6 fully 3D stunning graphical themed worlds full of bizarre abstract features.
• Over 70 levels of liquid mayhem
• Level types include Race modes, Challenge modes, Percentage, Combo modes and Boss.
• 2 Player gaming on all 72 levels using Wi-Fi / Wireless Battle Mode and ghost mode head to head style.

Reviews (12)

a definate keeper!
Metal Gear Acid was the first PSP game i bought, and thoroughly enjoyed it. So when it came time to picking up a second game for the Psp, this one was a no brainer. It's a lot like Marble Madness, but with the really fun dynamic of playing it safe with the liquid metal Mercury (which is really bad for your health in real life). You don't wanna spill it and the thrill of getting through the levels and playing it over and over again is a rush.
It actually reminds me of the same thrill i get playing through the VR missions on Metal Gear Solid 2: Substance for PS2, you play each level over and over again till you're perfect at it, it becomes an obsession... people complain that the game is too short or gets hard too fast... well as far as it being hard.. practice makes perfect, the controls are very easy and tight, so the negative reviews to the gameplay being hard are really just a matter of taste.As far as the game being too short, my recommendatin is speeding through it at first, then going back through it 10 fold till you've conquered it, then play against a friend!

All in all this game is a great find for a great system. Its not a waste of money, its a definate Keeper!

Mercury is mercu-rific!
So I purchased Wipe Out Pure and got blown away by an amazing racing game on the PSP. Than I purchased Metal Gear Acid and was blown away by the depth of the game play and story line. With both games conquered I needed another PSP game fix and fast! There were quite a few to choose from but the beautiful graphics and unique game play brought me to the world of Mercury.This game is like a mixture between super monkey ball and marble madness. It provides really challening but not impossible puzzles. Even when you have trouble passing a level youare determined to finish. The more you play the better you get. The lush landscapes and tight control make this a great puzzle to get your hands on and will compliment your PSP game collection quite well. Another fantastic PSP game experience making this system a very worth while purchase. I hightly recommend it.

waste
Its fun at first but is way to short and you get bored of it after 2 or 3 days I highly sugjest you do not buy this but if you relly want it rent it but never buy it. ... Read more

Features

• 12 Unworldy arenas filled with numerous items of chaos including rockets, missiles and more!
• 14 Lethal machines on wheels, equipped with machine guns, turbo boost and a special attack, unique to each vehicle
• New gameplay designs, customizable multiplayer modes and bonus levels allow for a wide variety of gameplay options for gamers on the go

Reviews (22)

I have 2 words...
HORRIBLE CONTROLS!!! ALL U DO IN THIS GAME IS DRIVE AROUND IN A TRUCK WITH A CLOWN ON IT AND SHOOT PEOPLE... THAT IS IT!! NOTHIN ELSE... WHEN U TRY TO SHOOT SOMEONE, U CAN NEVER GET A DIRECT HIT. WHEN U TRY 2 TURN U GO FAST AND OUT OF CONTROL... DONT GET THIS GAME... GET EITHER RIDGE RACER OR *NEED FOR SPEED UNDERGROUND RIVALS........

GO ONLINE
OK...it has online multilayer. You can play wirelessly 3 ways. PSP to PSP, PSP to wireless base station to THE INTERNET where u can play against an opponent from across the country, and PSP to base station to PSP. I love battling people online. It is awesome. I hope they make "infrastructure" mode on all the PSP games.

Twisted Metal crashes onto PSP
Twisted Metal comes onto the PSP with a great new game. The graphics are are awesome and the Wi-Fi multiplayer modes are fun with virtually no lag time at all! However, I do have to knock the game a star for being too short. Unlocking all the characters and other stuff can be done in about a week. But if your looking for a fun, quick-paced game for your brand new psp, then check it out. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

NOT OUT YET but rating good since well ya know
THIS IS NOT OUT YET (...) we would`ve all bought this if it was amazon shut this off NOW but when it does come I bet it will be the best game for the psp

The game is not out yet what is this bs.
The game has not been realesed who ever says they have this game is lying. Nice try Amazon ps. I never got my order

great game!!!
I just got GTA for my PSP yesterday and it is a great game. The graphics are better than the graphics on my TV! It's the same as the original GTA but it's from a different point of view. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

just as tight on playstation 2
nice graghics easy to bat and play. I love this game it's great

Great graphics, pretty fun
First of all, the platform I was playing before this was N64 so I wasn't spoiled already by the Cube, PS2, or XBOX.MLB on PSP is pretty awesome to look at and very fluid gameplay.I tried to start out at "All-Star" mode (the middle difficulty) but kept striking out too much.Went back to "Rookie" and am really jamming with the bat though losing as much as I win.One of the problems for me is the baserunning which seems more difficult than necessary...I get thrown out a lot.

Overall, a fun game with great detail.Some have complained about no franchise mode and maybe it's the same thing but I wish there was an opportunity for a "draft" similar to Madden in order to test my administrative skills against the computer.

Solid
First off, MVP Baseball from EA is coming out shortly and considering how badly it beats up on MLB in other genres, it will most likely be better on PSP as well. So, if you can stand waiting a while for that game to come out then you should. I suggest most people to wait and compare all the reviews/ratings before making a purchase...
That is, unless you're like me, and you're to addicted to baseball to wait a month or so... If that's the case, then this game is a solid purchase to hold you over.
The graphics are exellent, almost as good as PS2, XBox. The gameplay is of a high quality... Realistic, smooth, decent controls. I don't like the fact that your throws in the field are so straight forward... you dont control how hard or accurate the throw is, you just push a button. other than that, I have no real complaints about the gameplay. It's not spectacular, but it's solid... I wish it had a dynasty/franchise mode, and I wish you could do more as far as roster managment goes, but none of the 1st gen., PSP sports game will have a franchise, so no use complaining about that.
So, in closing, if you just can't wait, you won't regret buying this game. Just know that it most likely won't be the best PSP baseball game available once MVP comes out. ... Read more

Features

• All-new Practice Mode, Play Off Mode, and Full Season Mode
• Paint Mode, 989 Sports Skills Challenge Mode and the 3-Point Challege
• Simulation, trades, free agent lists, injuries and challenging basketball
• With 42 teams and 390 players to play as or against, you'll need a notebook as you try and figure out the strengths and weakness

Reviews (12)

Easiness!
THis game is hot, and it is a lot of fun to play. It is, however, WAY too easy. The first day I got it I lost all of my games, but once i adjusted to the shooting buttons, I became the master (which isn't that hard). I had an 81-1 season with the ATLANTA HAWKS!! In the game (and in real life) they suck! I lost by one point to the mavericks when i let my 8 year old son play! his first time ever picking up the game, and he lost 71-72. I can just throw it up to Al Harrison for an easy three points, and it is like that with EVERY TEAM. I always play with the highest difficulty, and always win by 30 or 40 points. I get bored just throwing the ball to my wing man and scoring every single time. i highly reccommend waiting for a better NBA game to come out. The mini games are alright and online could be a bit better...nobody is ever on. Save your money for Coded Arms, which will be the best PSP game ever, or just buy a new NBA game when it comes out cuz this one gets old fast.

Potential
The knock on 989 sports games has always been unrealistic game play... This title is no exception to that charge.
Before I rip the game, I will say this: if you're not worried about realistic game play, it's a fun game. The graphics do a great job of showing the potential the PSP has. The mini-games are quite fun and highly replayable. Sadly, the mini games are the best feature.
In my first game (keep in mind all this happened the FIRST time I picked the game up) I scored 60 something points with Rashard Lewis, almost all of the points coming in the 2nd half, once i became comfortable with the controls... almost all of his points came on 3's... I hit something like 17 or 18 3's... If you hae a decent 3 point shooter and he's taller than the man guarding him, you hit like 80% of your 3's! Also, Luke Ridinour threw down a 2 handed dunk where his head was lke 2 feet above the rim at one point. LUKE RIDINOUR!!!!!! also, the oposing point guard, mike bibby had 30 points and 25 assists! 25! that's an NBA record, and I still won the game!
the bottom line is, if you just want to have a basketball game and you're not worried about gameplay accuracy then you can get by with this game. But if you want something that resembles an NBA game, then stay away.

PEOPLE WHO SAY THIS GAME SUK ARE STUPID!!!
LOOK I KNOW THAT WHEN U FIRST GET IT, IT MIGHT BE KINDA HARD... BUT U CANT STOP!!!
THIS IS GAME IS SO MUCH FUN THAT U CANT GIVE UP, U CANT STOP PLAYIN IT, IMASTERED THE CONTROLS AFTER THE FIRST GAME BEACAUSE I HAVE PLAYED SOOOOO MANY NBA GAMES AND I AM THE BEST AT THEM ALL! BUT FOR AN AVERAGE GAMER, U WILL MASTER THE CONTROLS AFTER U PLAY 3 OR 4 GAMES. AFTER U MASTER THE CONTROLS U CAN DO DIFFERENT THINGS WITH THE GAME LIKE, TAKIN YOUR SKILLS TO THE GAME PAINT OR THE SKILLS CHANLANGE ! GET THIS GAME NOW!! ... Read more

Features

• New battlefield area system creates new strategic gameplay and allows for shorter periods of play ideal for a mobile environment.
• New "Second-in-Command" officer control system gives bodyguards special skills that you control.
• With hundreds of "Second-in-Command" officers to discover, you can collect and select which officers you take into battle.
• Exchange "Second-in-Command" officers using the Memory Stick Duo.
• Play as 42 Dynasty Warriors from all Three Kingdoms and Unaligned forces.

Reviews (7)

Warriors is portable!!!!
Just when you got tired of sitting at home in front of the tv playing Dynasty Warriors on your PS2, KOEI makes a portable version of it for the PSP!

Enjoy the non-stop action of Dynasty Warriors on your PSP. Select warriors from any one of the three dynasties (WU, WEI, and SHU) and select special unaligned characters including the legendary LU BU.

Fight your way across China in 7 different stages in Musou Mode or pick a fighter and train him in Free Mode. With 42 warriors to choose from and 200 different officers to have under your command, you can conquer China on the go!

Bottom Line:KOEI better make a second one soon!

good,but...
This is an action packed chinise game,you get to choose from different characters and kill other dynasties.It is very exciting but when you continue to play it gets a little boring.Cause all the time is killing other people in foot,horses or elephants.To some people this game never gets boring,to some it does.To me its good.It is good but not worth 50bucks or more,Im waiting for them to low it to 40,I rented it,cause it cost