Sony's stunning new handheld, PlayStation Vita, goes on sale to the masses on February 23. You'll be able to choose from two different versions -- a wi-fi model and a 3G model.
There will be no shortage of great games at launch, including a bunch of great PSP games that, if the Japanese launch is anything to go by, will add plenty of value to a handheld with an already stunning lineup of exclusive titles.
Poll: Will you be buying 3G or Vita?
If you're undecided as to whether to pick one up at launch, use this guide to help you make a decision!
The Price
PlayStation Vita will launch in Australia, Europe, North America and Latin America on February 23, 2012.
The wi-fi model will set gamers back AUD $349.95 (RRP) and New Zealanders from NZD $449.95 (RRP), while the the 3G/Wi-Fi model will retail for AUD $449.95 (RRP) and NZD $549.95, respectively.
“PlayStation Vita is a revolutionary device, which will offer the best possible portable gaming experiences available on the market. Its impressive feature set is designed to provide the ultimate gaming experiences on the go. This, combined with social connectivity means there will be not only innovative new ways to play, but also new ways to connect with others,” said Michael Ephraim, Managing Director, Sony Computer Entertainment Australia and New Zealand.
Game prices vary in pricing depending on the game. The most expensive seems to be Uncharted: Golden Abyss and Rayman Origins at $68, which the cheapest seems Little Deviants at $38. The price range is generally between $40 and $70 across all retailers.
Wiki: Contribute to the PlayStation Vita Wiki Page
The Stores
The current major retailers are confirmed to been seeling PlayStation Vita:
EB Games
JB Hi-Fi
GAME
Dick Smith Electronics
Harvey Norman
Discuss: Talk about PlayStation Vita in the forums
MyGames.com.au will sell PlayStation Vita software.
Digital Distribution
PlayStation Vita, will provide two purchasing options for consumers: retail and digital. Sony has confirmed that every Vita game will get a simultaneous retail and digitally release.
"You can just leave everything on the Vita - it's a completely-self contained device," explained Sony's Chris Norden. "PSN is supported from day one, right out of the box at launch," he added.
3G or Wi-Fi?
The Wi-Fi model will require a wireless network connection in order to access online content and sharing. A 3G model can be purchase outright or on a plan via 3G provider Vodafone. Vodafone offers a $0 upfront 3G plan for $55 a month as an online-only pre-order deal with 1.5GB of data.
The Games
Army Corps of Hell
Asphalt Injection
BlazBlue: Continuum Shift II Extend
Dungeon Hunter: Alliance
Dynasty Warriors Next
Escape Plan
Everybody's Golf
Gravity Rush
Hustle Kings
Little Deviants
Lumines: Electronic Symphony
ModNation Racers: Road Trip
MotorStorm RC
Rayman Origins
Reality Fighters
Ridge Racer
Shinobido 2: Revenge of Zen
Super StarDust Delta
Top Darts
Touch My Katamari
Ultimate Marvel Vs. Capcom 3
Uncharted: Golden Abyss
Virtua Tennis 4 World Tour Edition
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