Almost two decades after its release, the PSP still boasts a functional GPS app, a feature that many nostalgic fans may have forgotten about. Despite the era of standalone GPS devices fading into obscurity, the PSP's navigation capabilities have managed to withstand the test of time, even in a market dominated by smartphones and in-car navigation apps.
Despite Sony's withdrawal from the handheld gaming market, except for the recent PlayStation Portal device, the PSP remains a beloved console with a successful commercial run. Although it didn't match the sales figures of the Nintendo DS family, the PSP validated the demand for potent, on-the-go gaming devices. However, its successor, the PS Vita, failed to capture a substantial audience, ultimately leading to Sony's departure from the handheld gaming arena.
The Persistent Functionality of PSP's GPS
In 2024, the PSP has found a practical purpose as a GPS device, drawing attention from retro gaming enthusiasts. An Instagram user, real_rodeo, shared an image of a PSP serving as a functional GPS on a car dashboard, showcasing its enduring utility.
At its launch, Sony marketed the PSP as an all-in-one media gadget, offering music, movies, TV episodes, and navigational capabilities. However, due to its delayed availability in the US and the requirement of an expensive add-on, the PSP's GPS feature failed to gain widespread adoption. Nevertheless, the console's exceptional library of first-party games cemented its status as a must-have for PlayStation aficionados during its heyday.
Amidst the resurgence of forgotten features, one PSP title is set for a revival. Persona 3, originally a PS2 game, is receiving a comprehensive remake by developer Atlus. This time, Persona 3: Reload will extend beyond PlayStation hardware, being one of the four games confirmed for Game Pass in February.
Furthermore, speculations abound regarding a potential comeback for the beloved PSP franchise, Patapon. Although glimpses of Patapon surfaced in a Sony trailer from CES 2024, details regarding the revival of this fan-favorite series remain shrouded in mystery.