PS Vita: General Discussion

[spacysam]

I have pre-ordered a Vita 3G because I like the idea of being able to play it anywhere, anytime - but this might not have been the best option…………….

After reading an article from IGN’s Tech guy Scott Lowe I think I might change my mind –

Scott points out the oblivious things to being with, the extra cost, the monthly contracts etc but there seems to be another thing I had not taken into account.

The Vita's 3G Functions are Limited - In order to regulate network strain, Sony will only allow for basic functions to be accessed over 3G, such as web browsing, PSN messaging, asynchronous multiplayer (i.e. turn-based games) and leaderboard access. If users want to play with other players online in realtime or download a larger game (assumed to be 20MBs or more) from the PSN, they will be required to connect to a Wi-Fi network.

Now I don’t mind not being able to download big games, but I would have thought we would be able to play people.

Mobile Hotspots Are More Bang for Your Buck - By paying for the 3G PS Vita and a data plan, you are spending money for service for only one device when you could just as easily power multiple devices via a mobile hotspot. Just about every smartphone released in the last year comes equipped with a mobile hotspot feature, which for an additional monthly fee can convert 3G and 4G connections into Wi-Fi that can be used by anything from notebooks to game consoles, including the PS Vita.

Now I have looked in to this & I have found that you can do PAYG on these hotspot devices…. Plus if the Vita is locked to Vodafone, this option means you can go with any provider you like! What's more, mobile hotspots are identified as standard Wi-Fi networks by the PS Vita, so even if you're using a 3G or 4G connection you will have access to the full range of online-enabled features of the system. So while the 3G model's networking won't allow you to download games or play realtime multiplayer over a network, a mobile hotspot will.

So what are your thoughts…… stick with the 3G version or buy a W-Fi only one & a hotspot?

[goonerrob1104]

i have pre ordered the wifi only but am really tempted to go 3g just know something will come out that uses it

still undecided

[KushMonkey]

I've pre-ordered the 3G.

[II_DeL_II]

3g for me- i love a constant stream of useless info beamed to me anywhere on the planet-reminds me im neither alone nor do i have to check for a pulse! 

[Spirit0fLight]

Proper GPS in the 3G & the fact you get Wipeout really makes the extra worth it.

[Gambe1984]

As above, the proper GPS and free wipeout is making this really tempting. But ive currently pre-ordered a wifi model simply because i cant see me taking it out the house much.

[linkj1993]

Im still undecided, and really anoyed because of my undecisiveness or whatever. I would like the 3G version but dont know if its gonna be worth it, or if the wifi only version will be just as good, i got 7 games down for pre order but wouldnt mind wipeout on the system, its all just a kerfuffle in my head, i want it allllll!!!! Lol

[DavyC]

Hey guys,  I thought I would resurrect this thread to see what everyone decided to go for?

Personally, I went standard Wifi.  I bought mine in Switzerland (where I live) and to be honest the only time I think I would use the 3G would be travelling back to the UK to visit family, in which case you would get thumped with excessive roaming data charges.  If I really need to connect I can use the mobile hotspot option via my phone, but thats just me, what flavour did you go for?

PS loving the little black beauty so far!

[MacronX]

There's no way I would buy the 3G. I have an iPhone 4S with mobile hotspot. If I want to get my Vita, my iPad or my laptop online anytime, anywhere then I just connect them to my iPhone.

Given the incredibly limited feature set Sony are providing over 3G then there is no way it would be worth the extra cost or the monthly bill to me.

[CrustyJockStrap]

No interest in wipeout or 3G so went with the Wifi!