Customer Reviews

PlayStation Portable Limited Edition Ratchet & Clank Entertainment Pack - Piano Black

5 star:		(22)
4 star:		(8)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(2)
1 star:		(3)

 

 

The all new slimmer PSP 3000 comes in with a couple of new upgrades over the 2000 model. Primarily for the Skype functionality, a microphone is onboard along with a reduced glare 4.3" screen. As far as glare reduction goes, I did not see that much of a difference over the PSP 2000. Its a given that fingerprints will still be a continued problem for the PSP line. Thankfully, the age old problem of ghosting has yet to appear on my new PSP 3000.

One of the sweeter features now is an upgraded (AV) video output support. Owners can now operate their systems with regular (NON HD) TV. I suggest buyers pick up a good add on composite or component cable. With the usual collection of great games, improved graphics is a major plus.

As with all previous models, control buttons layout are very much like the classic Play Station. One area of concern is that load times for the UMD (Universal Media Disc) seemed to drag a bit. Its a given that purchasing the kit which includes the proprietary MS Duo Card is more cost effective in the end. Its obvious that Sony missed the boat when it went with its own proprietary format instead of the more widely used and less costly SD standard.

Even though Wi-fi capable, the unit is outfitted with possibly the slowest version (802.11b) on the planet. It powers up via a 5 volt ac adapter or USB. Video playback is great as long as you copy your favorites on the memory stick Duo Card. Going any other way is definitely a slow dragged out process. When it comes to television, Sony's own version of Slingbox allows for free tv viewing.

This PSP won't get confused with your IPOD anytime soon but music play is generally good. Another added feature is that it will even support music art. If one is going to display photos on the PSP I strongly suggest compressing your files. Photo display can be slide show or singles.

The PSP 3000 is also a web browser. However, its hit and miss for flash. Streaming internet radio via Shoutcast is a freebie. PSP offers a regular schedule of firmware updates. As with the earlier editions, via a network or the internet the unit can pick up audio, video and photo files that are stored on a PS3. The PSP 3000 comes with the standard 1200 mAh rechargeable battery. Battery life runs almost a full 5 hours whether one is gaming or watching a movie.

Necessary accessories such as a protective screen cover, headphones and a carrying case are not included. Not all PSP headphones are compatible with the PSP 3000. When purchasing headphones read the specs carefully. Even without the accessories, PSP 3000 still brings it on. After all, its Play Station.

We've been a PS3 household ever since the 60GB version came about so, with two pre-teens in the house, we were ripe for a PSP adoption. We are happy with the purchase so far.

The Ratchet & Clank Pack includes the following:
- The PSP 3000 itself in shiny black (a fingerprint magnet)
- 1 GB Memory Stick Pro Duo card
- Ratchet and Clank game (UMD)
- Everyday Shooter game voucher (download)
- National Treasure 2 movie (UMD)
- Manual, promos, registration card, etc.

First impressions:
I was surprised of how good and versatile and elegant this little console can be. It has most of the PS3 buttons, including one analog joystick, the display is large and bright, the resolution is good (480x272), and it responds quickly to controls. It appears to be solidly built. Unlike prior models, this one comes with a built-in microphone while the sound output can be either through the internal speakers headphones (not included). After charging the battery, my kid was up and running and happy in no time. But, let me proceed with a more structured discussion.

Stand alone operation (disconnected):
The PSP 3000 will play games or movies delivered on UMD discs or off a Memory Stick card. In addition, it will display photos and play music stored on the Memory card.

Networking and Internet connectivity:
The built-in Wi-Fi allows the PSP 3000 to access the Playstation Netowork and Playstation Store directly. Off the box, there is an Internet browser, a Search (the Internet) function, several Internet Radio applications and the ability to use the PSP as a Skype phone for as long as one has a Skype account and the PSP happens to be within the range of a Wi-Fi hotspot.

PS3 Integration:
After the PSP is paired with the PS3, the PS3 can 'push' video, photos, music and even PSP games downloaded from the Playstation Store when connected through a USB wire. When wireless, the PSP can basically take over the PS3 - actually display the PS3's own screen and display photos stored on the PS3, play music stored on the PS3. Movie play is not supported.
Interestingly, when playing music, it's possible to play it on the PSP's on speakers/headphones or have the PS3 play it itself, the PSP therefore acting as a remote control device.
I suspect that additional capabilities exist that I am not aware of yet.

PC integration:
Through a USB connection, the PC will see the PSP's memory card as an attached drive. This will allow for music, photo or movie files to be transferred directly to the PSP.

Room for improvement:
The PSP 3000 comes very close to being the perfect portable game-playing (and more) machine, at least in the Sony universe. Perfection would be achieved if the 'keyboard' interface were improved - it's awful now - if it had touch screen capabilities and if file transfers from the PS3 were possible wirelessly. Also on the wish list, I hope that there were more legal 'digital copy' movies available for the PSP.

Rating:
It's a 4.5 stars plus, rounded up to 5.

I have owned the DS light, my daughters have DS and DSi. I got bored with the DS last year. I just found the games were uninteresting and just decided to sell it one day and stick to the big consoles like Xbox 360, PS3 and Wii.
This year I had no idea what I wanted for my birthday. I already have more games then I can play in my lifetime....so I was not thinking of another handheld. I decided to try the PSP anyway, since it gave me something to do while my wife plays with her IPhone (two old Tech-freaks).
I am so glad I gave the PSP a try ...it is like carrying a PS2 everywhere you go, with the addition of Internet and Skype. I got so much of a kick out of it, that my daughter decided to buy one. Now, my daughter is a gamer...she grew up with the stuff, while I was a teen when "Pong" came out, so she would be a real test..after her first week , I asked her which she preferred better, her DSi (She loves Mario, Zelda and Harvest Moon type stuff) or the PSP. She said PSP hands down without hesitation!
She was very impressed with the quality and the technology. She also (Like Me) found the games refreshing..not boring.

Conclusion:
IF you want a system for the pre-teen crowd..then stick with a DSi. IF you want a system to keep you entertained to your adult years (and then some ;-) ) your choice has got to be a PSP!!
!!

I never owned a PSP before today and I must say that I am very happy with my purchase.

Pros: Looks, Function and Games.

Cons: Wobbly UMD and Battery door. Slight defect with screen I can live with I guess. Noticeable scan lines. Speakers aren't very loud and it's a finger print magnet.

Sure, I listed more cons then pros... But they aren't that big of a deal. Just something you should know about ahead of time.

Overall this bundle is great. It's only $9 more then the core pack. You get 2 free games, movie and 1 GB memory stick. You can't go wrong.

So much power in such a slim handheld, you gotta love it. The new screen is so much better & richer in color. You will not be dissatisfied with this bundle. (Would have been even nicer if it came with the usb cable) I very highly recommend.

I bought this for my son and now we both use it almost every day.
Adding a 16gb pro duo card makes this the best portable device for your music, videos etc.
Upgrading to the media Manager for PSP helps a bit to convert basic files. I can now listen to my podcast and certain files are automatically converted.
You will need to purcahse a program to convert your personal DVDs to the MP4 format to see them on your PSP.
Also the S Component cable to view the display on your TV along with a starter kit as this is not included in the 17 in one starter kit.
Again Amazon had the best price, the wait was worth it.

Someone stole my old PSP, so we bought this one as a replacement. From form factor to display to game action, it's a great game system. And watching movies on it is far better than on my iPod or phone. You need to learn to rip your dvds onto a memory stick and load up on flicks! (I reco an app called Handbrake...google it.)

One downside to this particular package...the voucher for the free game is expired. And i could not figure out a way to get it otherwise. As it was one of the reasons we chose to buy this pack, I feel it's a bit of false advertising, if you will. Amazon should note this.

I purchased two PSP 3000 Limited Edition Ratchet & Clank Entertainment Packs several weeks ago. To be honest, the system is better than I had expected.

The screen on the PSP 3000 is definitely an improvement over earlier models. While I believe it is the same size, the brightness and color quality are both much improved.

I only used previous models briefly, so I can't comment on how the rest of this model compares (buttons, etc.), but I have no complaints about this latest hardware release.

Most potential buyers are familiar with the qualities of the PSP, so I won't go into great detail about the technical aspects. If you are used to handling a Nintendo DS Lite you might find the overall feel of the PSP to be "cheaper" or less durable. I'm not sure that the PSP would hold up to some of the drops our DS Lites have experienced. Hopefully I won't have to find out.

The included Ratchet & Clank game is a great "starter" game for your PSP and is universally fun to boys and girls, both young and old.

Since the PSP has been around a while you'll find a great selection of very reasonably priced older games - many in the $14.99 - $19.99 range.

If you've been considering a PSP, I would highly recommend the new 3000 model. If you already have a functioning earlier PSP model, I doubt that it's worth the upgrade. But this screen sure is sweet...

Just bought psp for myself. So far, I love it. Yes you can see scan lines if you view it realy close to your face but otherwise it is not a problem. Currently playing Ratchet and Clank and graphics look realy good. Overall 9/10. Good buy for anyone how like play station. Better porduct than I anticipated.

Extremely disappointed, purchased this for Christmas. After only a couple months, the unit went dead. Will not turn on, does not show any light while attempting to charge, etc.
Am in the process of trying to get service for unit. Right now, I am out the money and unit is useless to me. Will post update later.

UPDATE ON EARLIER REVIEW:

WENT THROUGH 2 UNITS THAT WERE SENT OUT BY SONY. HERE WAS THE ISSUE:
WE FOUND OUT THAT EVERY TIME WE WOULD PLUG THE UNIT INTO OUR CIGARETTE LIGHTER OUTLET IN OUR VEHICLE, THE UNIT WOULD GO DEAD AND NEVER WORK AGAIN.

WE SENT THE 2ND DEAD UNIT BACK TO SONY-AGAIN,AND WHEN WE GOT OUR 3RD UNIT WE MADE A POINT TO NEVER PLUG IT INTO THE VEHICLE AGAIN AND THIS UNIT IS STILL WORKING. SONY WAS VERY GOOD ABOUT SENDING THE UNIT OUT, IT WAS AN ONLINE PROCESS AND IT CAME VERY QUICKLY. SO FAR, NO MORE PROBLEMS. SO, DO NOT PLUG YOUR UNIT INTO A VEHICLE'S CIGARETTE LIGHTER FOR POWER. CHARGE IT AT HOME BEFORE LEAVING ANYWHERE.

I WOULD SAY EVERYTHING IS GOOD NOW, BUT I STILL FEEL FOR THE VERY SMALL AMOUNT OF TIME MY SON ACTUALLY USES THIS, THE PRICE PAID WAS JUST WAY TOO MUCH MONEY. I FEEL IT SHOULD SELL FOR AROUND $99 INSTEAD OF WHAT I PAID. HE USES IT MOSTLY FOR LISTENING TO MUSIC.