Sony PSP: time to bin the iPod?

After enjoying the Sony PlayStation Portable for the last few months, we really don't know how we lived without it. Believe the hype, the long-awaited iPod 2.0 is here -- a device that astounds anyone who sets eyes on it.

Sony’s PSP really does have it all: a gloriously detailed LCD screen manufactured by Sharp, launch games that not only look the part but are genuinely engaging to play thanks to the excellent analogue control stick, and a case design that should keep Apple’s Jonathan Ives on his toes.

Despite its pocket-friendly size, its large and detailed screen has some of the most involving game play around. We’ve been missing Tube stops and deadlines, neglecting our pint to play Wipeout Pure and Ridge Racer in the pub, and generally holding forth about the future of handheld gaming. Imagine the first time you saw 3D graphics, or a flatscreen TV, and you'll be getting somewhere near the feeling you get when playing with this little monster.

Games aren't everything, and the best weapon in the PSP’s arsenal could be video playback. Our hot import American PSP came with a copy of Spider-Man 2 and a collection of movie trailers, and Sony’s conversion work is absolutely faultless. Also included in the pack is a 32MB Memory Stick -- just enough to hold a few converted DivX clips using PSPVideo9. Expect the gadget freak on a bus near you to be chortling over last night’s episode of The Simpsons really soon.

The PSP UK release date is still a murky business, but the rumour mill favours a September launch. Expect a full, drool-laden review soon, as well as our run-down of the must-have games for your little black precious. -GC