Sony's PlayStation Vita launches this month, meaning there's going to be a ton of new games and accessories, plus the hardware itself, that you'll have to pony up the dough for. Let GameRevolution take you on a guided tour of everything you need so your day one handheld experience is the best it can possibly be.
So you've preordered a PlayStation Vita…. Wait– YOU HAVEN'T?! GET ON THAT RIGHT NOW! Seriously, there are a few awesome preorder deals, including Sony's PlayStation Vita First Edition Bundle:
PlayStation Vita First Edition Bundle: … includes PlayStation Vita 3G/Wi-Fi Hardware, 4GB Memory Card, Little Deviants Game, Special Edition Case, 250 MB DataConnection Pass, and free PSN Game Download, and get your PlayStation Vita a week early.
$349.99
PlayStation Vita 3G Launch Bundle: … includes PlayStation Vita 3G/Wi-Fi Hardware, 8GB Memory Card, 250 MB DataConnection Pass, and free PSN Game Download.
$299.99
PlayStation Vita Wifi: … PlayStation Vita Wi-Fi Only Hardware.
$249.99
Why do two out of three Vita bundles include Memory Cards? Because Sony's proprietary memory cards are an absolute essential to getting everything out of your PlayStation Vita. It can be a little disappointing that in this modern word of flash storage and internal hard drives, the Vita takes a step back, but you can't blame the electronics giant for combatting piracy any way they can.
Memory cards will store your game saves and any games you download, which includes full retail PlayStation Vita titles you download from the PS Store, as well as PSN games and DLC. Here's the rundown of options–we recommend you go with a larger card since space will fill up fast if you're also storing music and movies for on the go entertainment.
4GB: $19.99 — 8GB: $29.99 — 16GB: $59.99 — 32GB: $99.99
If you're dropping this many bills on an expensive piece of electronic hardware, you might consider picking up a few accessories to protect your investment. When you're spending this much on an item with a touch screen, you know you just have to get those screen protectors.
PlayStation Vita Protective Film – Two Pack: If you've got an iPhone or other touch-screen device, you know how gunky and ugly a screen can get after even light play. The Vita's gorgeous screen will certainly be dimenished after a long session of touch screen controls.
$9.99
PlayStation Vita Travel Pouch: There's no way you're fitting this thing in your pocket, and again, you're spending a lot of money. Don't just throw it in your bag to play contact sports with every other device you've got. The travel pouch comes with a compartment for the system's power adapter (5-hour battery life everyone!) and a handful of game cartridges.
$19.99
PlayStation Vita Cradle: If you're going to set up shop and watch movies on the plane or at home, you might want to invest in the cradle so your hands are free to do what they please… like eat greasy food. Once again, screen protectors… seriously.
$19.99
PlayStation Vita USB Cable: Got a bunch of music and movies already downloaded that you'd like to enjoy with the Vita? Get a USB Cable, use it, and be happy.
$14.99
Up next? The best games to buy at launch!
Sony's PlayStation Vita launches this month, meaning there's going to be a ton of new games, accessories, and the hardware itself you'll have to pony up the dough for. Let GameRevolution take you on a guided tour of everything you need so your day one handheld experience is the best it can possibly be.
With the hardware and accessories in your hands, you'll obviously need something play! Here are the best PlayStation Vita games to spend your money on at launch, along with two PSN games to mix things up with:
Uncharted: Golden Abyss: An Uncharted experience on the go? You might not think it possible, but somehow they've packed the tech needed to bring Nathan Drake and his adventure to life in your hands. I honestly didn't think it would work either, but even GR's own Anthony Severino attests that Golden Abyss is neck and neck with the PlayStation 3 games in terms of adventuring experience. Rounding out the launch day package is a set of touch controls that let you climb, brawl, and interact with Drake directly on screen.
$49.99
Lumines: Electronic Symphony: This should be a no-brainer. If you had a PSP, you'll know that Lumines was one of the only reasons you ever needed to own a PSP. Get your music-driven puzzle game on! All those colors will look fantastic on the Vita's screen, but the potential for DLC tracks and an ever-evolving Lumines experience means you'll want to get in on the ground early with this on-the-go title from Ubisoft.
$39.99
Rayman Origins: So it's clear that we love this game, right? That's clear by now. OK, just making sure. Why should you buy it on the Vita? Those drop-dead gorgeous 2D graphics will look absolutely stellar on the Vita's high-resolution OLED screen. If you need a game other than Uncharted that'll show off the handheld's gorgeous graphics, Rayman Origins will definitely do the job. Oh, and it's really fun to play too.
$39.99
Little Deviants: Yes, yes, it's true. The PlayStation Vita can certainly hold its own when we're talking hardcore games, but you really need to justify all this money you just spent and mom or your meatheaded friend just aren't getting it. Maybe if they played something on the machine they'd understand. Put Little Deviants in their hands and watch them smile fiendishly as they slowly realize they don't want to give you back your PlayStation Vita. Tons of new ways to play, including heavy use of the both touch surfaces will put a smile on anyone's face though.
$29.99
EA SPORTS FIFA Soccer: When it comes to international video game phenomenons, FIFA Soccer really doesn't stop. Already addicted to futbol on your home console? EA is happy to let you take it on the go with you on the PlayStation Vita. That's really it, you know what you're getting into here right?
$39.99
Super StarDust Delta: Looking to download something from the PSN? Wanna make sure you put those two analog sticks to good use? Start busting asteroids and more space junk in Super StarDust Delta. The PSN-only title is also only available for the PlayStation Vita. One of the best games on the PS3's PS Store has made the jump with you to the new portable. Seriously, we love busting space-rocks.
$9.99
Plants Vs. Zombies: Wait… they're going to have Plants Vs. Zombies on the PlayStation Vita?! Are you kidding?! Oh man, I can't wait to play that game!
$9.99
That's it! Enjoy your PlayStation Vita!