Nintendo DS Versus Sony PSP

There are two main competitors in the portable video game world today; the Nintendo DS and the Sony PSP.I have had the chance to own both the DS and the PSP and play a fair amount of games on each system. Both have their advantages and disadvantages of course and are appealing for different reasons. Obviously the systems are intended to attract different gamers.

The first thing that I, and I'm sure anyone, will notice about the systems is how they look. The winner in this category is definitely the PSP in my book. It is sleek looking. The glossy black color and ergonomic shape make this system look downright cool. The DS on the other hand looks a bit clunky. It is not ugly but does not look as streamlined as the PSP. As far as the feeling in your hands goes, the PSP wins again in this category. Your hands conform to the shape of the systems quite easily and allow for comfortable gaming. The DS is not as easy to hold but it is not bad.

Second, the systems have very different intended audiences. The PSP is obviously designed to attract male gamers in the upper-teens and twenties category. The DS's primary audience consists of young gamers. Because of this, each system provides very different experiences. The PSP offers more action packed and mainstream games. The DS is more focused on allowing for a different gaming experience than ever available.

It is hard to declare a winner in the category of games because it is much like comparing apples and oranges. Sometimes I'm in the mood for a shooter gamer or playing online while other times I like to play the innovative offerings of the DS. If I had to, however, I would choose the PSP as the winner in this area as well.

Third, the durability of the systems. I'm going to come right out and say the DS wins this category. The PSP, in my opinion, is too complicated and contains too many vulnerable moving parts than is healthy for a portable gaming system. I always feel nervous about carrying it in my pocket and have noticed the moving parts getting worn out slowly over time. The DS seems to be very well built. It has the simplicity in design that the PSP lacks even though it has the dual screens. Don't get me wrong, the PSP is not going to fall apart quickly but it may be a concern in a couple years.

So which system do I recommend to the potential buyer? Let me put it this way. If you are the type of person who is concerned with graphics and enjoys action games I would recommend the PSP. The great potential for homebrew is also a selling point. If you want a different experience and some fun, simple games go with the DS. Both are fun and worth the price.