Even with the new PlayStation 2 console released in Japan and coming to the US in October, our good friend the PlayStation is going to get a little brother. SCEA has announced a newly-designed, compact version of the PlayStation game console to be released in September 2000 to commemorate the anniversary of the original North American launch. SCEA claims that the introduction of the new PS one will 'redefine the entertainment lifestyle by providing consumers broader access to the PlayStation gaming experience including portable use outside the home.'Reception of this news on some other websites has been somewhat lackluster, claiming that the PS one's portability is to be questioned, as it's much larger than, say, Nintendo's portable system. The difference is that the PS one is NOT a handheld system. The PS one, incorporating the same functionalities and technology of the original PlayStation game console, is approximately one-third the size of the existing product, enabling consumers to comfortably carry the system. It is a portable system. There is a difference. Furthermore, the PS one will be replacing the PlayStation console - so, if you prefer, think of it as a 'redesign' for the current PlayStation. The PS one will play all of the same games as the PlayStation, and in the game console industry, reduced size usually means reduced price. The price for the PS one has not yet been disclosed, but I would not be surprised if it retailed for less than the current PlayStation.
The PS one will replace the original PlayStation design and include a DUALSHOCK analog controller, AC adapter for portability and necessary connector cables. Playing the same format as the existing PlayStation console, the PS one has an instant software catalog of more than 800 titles currently on the market, and the more than 150 additional titles currently under development to be released by year-end.
Sony is also planning to introduce a specially-designed four-inch color TFT LCD monitor for use with the PS one. This product will allow PS one gamers to enjoy the world of PlayStation entertainment outside their home. Specifics on exact release date and pricing are not available at this point, although it is scheduled for a release in Spring 2001.