The Vita gets a lot of flak, but it already has a surprisingly deep and quality library of games. With it’s ability to also play PSP and PS1 classics (and make them look better than ever), and the free game support from PS+, the Vita offers something for everyone. Let’s take a look at 7 of the handheld’s most redeeming qualities.

1. Quality

Currently on Metacritic 64 Vita games are rated 75 or higher, which is the Metacritic threshold for generally favorable reviews. In comparison Nintendo’s 3DS has 60. A multitude of genres are represented in the Vita’s highest rated games including titles such as Persona 4, Little Big Planet, Rayman Origins, Soul Sacrifice, Uncharted: Abyss and Killzone: Mercenary.

2. Quantity

With access to the Playstation store and its vast library of PSP and PS1 titles coupled with the future PS4 remote play it becomes almost 4 consoles in one. Many of the PS1 and PSP games can be purchased for around $10 USD and feature some all time classics like FF7, Patapon, Monster Hunter and God of War. The traditionally smaller file size of the PS1 and PSP games give players the option to carry around dozens of titles at once.

3. Specs

The hardware is peerless in the realm of handhelds and its power rivals home consoles with impressive battery life for what it can do. It features a gorgeous OLED screen, liberating input options, beautiful rendering and a powerful processor which makes games and video content look brilliant. The OS is fluid and sensible, and very efficient. With Netflix already present, it has media potential for future, via more streaming services such as Crunchyroll and Sony’s proprietary Movies and Music Unlimited plans.

4. PS4 Integration

Sony has declared widespread support for Remote play with the PS4 which is an exciting opportunity if implemented correctly. There has also been statements declaring integrated functionality as a potential controller for the PS4 much like the Wii U. While in some cases up to the developers to take advantage of the features such as Cross Buy and Cross Play, when making a prospective purchase consideration of future potential is certainly a factor.

5. Indie Games

Has emerged as a surprising but very comfy haven for the momentum building indie game scene. Bolstered by Sony’s commitment to independent development, the console is awash in thoughtful, creative and unique games like Guacamelee, Dragon Fantasy and Hotline Miami. The big, more bombastic console experiences people were expecting have not been there with regularity but with titles like Uncharted and the new Killzone there are certainly options for ‘splosions.

6. Playstation Plus

Plus supports the console with game discounts and offers monthly freebies that include some of the Vita’s best games and biggest names. Games like Uncharted, Gravity Rush, Machinarium, BlazBlue, and Ninja Gaiden have all been past free Vita offerings, with dozens more free PSP and PS1 titles. Countless other titles are discounted on a regular basis. If your tastes are flexible, you could buy a Plus subscription and never have to buy another game.

7. Cost

Price drop now puts it south of $200 USD which is an approachable price for a handheld and only about $20 more than the competing 3DS. A new lighter and cheaper model is also due to be released in Japan and may also find its way to the Western market. Furthermore, the expensive memory cards, which had been a sticking point for consumers, have received price drops bringing a 16GB card to a very manageable $39 USD, which is down from $60.

One thing that has hindered the Vita is the impression that it is missing that killer app that sells consoles. One can make a case for Persona 4, even though it is a remake, the update makes it fresh and it is one of the greatest games you can play, but being a deep JRPG with micromanagement aspects, it is not a game that will appeal to all. Tearaway has the potential to be the killer app in the able hands of Media Molecule, as they are designing the game to maximize the multitude of input options. A new Monster Hunter (the PSP version is playable on the Vita) or similar game, and a Pokemon type game (although Persona fills that role partially) would do wonders for the system. The cost of memory cards has also been a prohibitive factor but the aforementioned price drop has removed a bit of the barrier.

Sony has diligently stuck with the Vita and are slowly but surely removing the obstacles that has held it back so far. I have owned mine for almost a year now, and don’t regret the purchase at all. I live a very mobile life and it keeps me connected to the hardcore gaming I love. With the PS4 set to launch beginning November, the current price drops make this a perfect time to take the leap and purchase a brand new Vita.

And remember, if you decide to take the leap into Vita territory or if you already own one and want to grab some more games, visit our Amazon shop here on the site! PS4’s may be sold out but the Vita’s are stocked and ready to fly!

Photo via Wikipedia

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