SCEA CEO Kaz Hirai Hints at PSP2 Touch Controls

[Tidusnake666]

Today, in an interview with the http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/12/22/clues-about-the-next-playstation-portable/ Sony Computer Entertainment president and group CEO Kaz Hirai dropped some tantalizing hints about the PSP2.

When asked about what kind of controls the next PSP might have, Hirai gave the following answer, to quote:

"Depending on the game, there are ones where you can play perfectly well with a touch panel, but you can definitely play immersive games better with physical buttons and pads. I think there could be games where you're able to use both in combination."

Hirai was also asked about reports of Sony Ericsson's PSP Go-like gaming phone, which may -or may not- be PlayStation branded.

"We don't want gamers to be asking, what's the difference between that and a PSP," said Hirai, without confirming the device's existence. "We have to come up with a message that users will understand. It would have to be a product that keeps the PlayStation's strengths intact."

Finally, Hirai expressed his belief that the increased interest in casual games will actually benefit Sony, traditionally a maker of more hardcore games. "We're seeing people who never had an interest in games join the gaming population," he explained. "That means that the gaming industry pie is getting bigger."


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Moved to the main page, and +Rep Tidusnake666!

[jokr2k10]

I really do think that Sony needs to just steer away from the phone/game system hybrid. Remember N-Gage? I know the iPhone has ALOT of games on it, but in the beginning it was marketed as a phone, not a game system. The games were made by third party companies to take advantage of the phones power later on.

The N-Gage was marketed as a portable game system with a phone built in. More you add to a device just means more to go wrong. Look at the DS, it has about 2.5x the sales of PSP and its a bare-bones game system (not including DSi which has a camera, etc…). The Wii is also out-selling the PS3 and Xbox360 almost 2 to 1 in some cases.

I am not saying Nintendo is better, I am just saying they are SELLING better, their focus is on GAME PLAY rather than so many features. (Honestly, who really cares about the PS3 playing 3D blu-ray movies and games? if the selection isn't there, it's not going to matter)

[heartagram62]

(Honestly, who really cares about the PS3 playing 3D blu-ray movies and games? if the selection isn't there, it's not going to matter)

I happen to think your wrong there, I care about the 3D blu-ray playback as this means I didn't have to upgrade my other blu-ray player when I got a 3DTV. There are some great features on the PS3 and SONY should keep them coming, I'm sure that I'm not alone when I say that.

[bub16]

well i won't be buying this then i can't handle touch screen/buttons.