PSP 2000 Review: Is This Handheld Still Worth It in 2020?

TL;DR

The PSP-2000 remains relevant in 2020 due to its impressive game library and portability, though it sacrifices battery life for a slimmer design. While many users appreciated its aesthetic improvements over the original, the reduced battery capacity sparked debate. If you're looking for a used handheld, prices can be around $20 on eBay, making it an affordable option for classic gaming.

Transcript

welcome back everyone finally we get to talk about another Sony console and the last one I talked about okay the ps3 was the last one but the psp-2000 was actually the first PSP that I owned I think like three years ago and I reviewed that back in 2017 and funny enough that actually at one point ended up being one of my most viewed videos of that y... Read More

Key Insights

• 🎨 The PSP-2000 was a design overhaul from the original PSP, prioritizing visual and portability enhancements that appealed to gamers in 2007.
• 💖 Despite its slimmer profile, the reduced battery size sparked debate among users regarding the balance between form and function.
• 🧘 Sony's strategic focus on aesthetics helped differentiate the PSP-2000 from competitors, enhancing its market position against the Nintendo DS family.
• 🎮 The console supports a vast library of timeless games, further contributing to its sustained popularity and relevance even more than a decade post-release.
• 👤 User sentiments about the glossy texture versus the matte finish illustrate personal preferences affecting overall satisfaction among gamers.
• 😑 The PSP platform's legacy continues, with many gamers expressing nostalgia and appreciation for its standout graphics and game quality.
• 👀 Available for reasonable prices on platforms like eBay, the PSP-2000 remains accessible for new gamers looking to experience classic handheld gaming.

Questions & Answers

Q: What were the major design improvements of the PSP-2000 compared to the original PSP?

The PSP-2000 featured a slimmer and lighter design, being 33% lighter and 19% slimmer than the original. It also transitioned to a glossier finish, which some users appreciated while others preferred the matte texture of the original. Furthermore, the positioning of the Wi-Fi switch and UMD slot was altered, contributing to its improved usability.

Q: How does the battery life of the PSP-2000 compare to the original model?

The PSP-2000's battery life was notably reduced due to a 33% decrease in battery size. Users typically reported 4.5 to 7 hours of gameplay depending on screen brightness settings. This trade-off had its critics, with some feeling that a larger battery could have been accommodated without sacrificing size.

Q: What was the target audience for the PSP-2000, and how did it position itself against competitors?

The PSP-2000 targeted gamers looking for a portable yet powerful console, primarily competing with the Nintendo DS Lite and DSi. Sony aimed to attract users by enhancing the console's visual appeal and game performance, showcasing a clean design that aligned with the trends of other successful handhelds at the time.

Q: Are there any notable accessories that complemented the PSP-2000's features?

Yes, one significant accessory was the PSP Extended Life Battery Kit, which included a 2200mAh battery. This accessory aimed to extend gameplay time, addressing concerns about the original battery limitations. It exemplified Sony's acknowledgment of user feedback and desire to enhance the overall gaming experience.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The PSP-2000, released in 2007, was 33% lighter and 19% slimmer than its predecessor, making it more portable. However, this compactness came at the cost of a reduced battery capacity, which was controversial among users.

• The design changes included a glossier finish compared to the original PSP and adjustments to the Wi-Fi switch and UMD slot, indicating Sony's intent to visually enhance the console to compete against rivals like the DS Lite and DSi.

• Despite its age, the PSP-2000 retains a remarkable game library with classics still appealing to gamers today, showcasing the enduring legacy of the handheld console and its competitive graphically advanced games.