Review: Sony PS Vita TV

When Sony introduced the PlayStation Vita TV (PS Vita TV) at their Pre-Tokyo Game Show press conference in 2013, it had been a surprise to many due to the fact that the new PS Vita model had also been announced at the same time. Being a PS Vita owner myself, I always wanted to play Vita games on the big screen and this device is the answer for me.

Fast and Easy
The PS Vita TV box comes with the device, HDMI cable and an AC adaptor and setting up this small, lightweight device is pretty straight forward. On its first boot up, the system will prompt the user to set the date, time, time zone, and Sony Entertainment Network account. The device however does not come with a controller and a memory card as they are sold separately. For those who want them as a bundle, fret not as Sony is also selling the PS Vita TV Value Pack (RM689), which come with a white PlayStation DUAL SHOCK 3 controller and a PS Vita 8GB Memory Card.

Same Interface, Different Controls
The PS Vita TV uses the same User Interface as the original handheld counterpart so most of the touchscreen controls are implemented on to the controller itself. Navigating between applications and pages is done using the Left Analog Stick and holding down the X button closes an opened application. The triangle button opens up Edit Mode to arrange the application grid listing as well as create new folders. Standby Mode is also available, making it possible to stop halfway and instantly continue where you left off.\

Upscaled Graphics
Playing PS Vita games on a 40in TV screen had been a stunning experience as the game’s resolution is upscaled to 720p. The downside of this feature is that not all PS Vita games can be played properly, such as Uncharted: Golden Abyss and Gravity Daze as their gameplay require the PS Vita’s touchscreen panels. In regards to this matter, SCEJA has opened a website listing all compatible Vita games for the device.

New Features
Probably the best feature the PS Vita TV has is being able to connect two Dual Shock 3 controllers, which allows for two player games from the PS One Classic library to be played. It can also play with other PS Vita handhelds via Ad Hoc, giving spectators a chance to see what you’re playing rather than looking over your shoulder.

Price RM469.00
Dimensions: 65 x 105 x 13.6 mm
Weight: 110g
CPU: ARM Cortex-A9 Core (4-Core)
GPU: IMG SGX543MP4+
Connectors: PlayStation Vita card slot, Memory card slot, USB 2.0 Type A, HDMI, LAN port (10BASE-T, 100BASE-TX)
Wireless Communication: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 2.1
Internal Memory Card: 1GB
AV Output: 480p, 720p, 1080i
Sound Output: LPCM 2ch

Value: 10/10
Features: 9/10
Performance: 9/10
Design: 10/10
Usability: 9/10

Verdict: A great alternative to play PS Vita games at home.
Total Score: 9.4/10