Despite PSP and PSVita Failures, Sony Isn't Done With Handheld Consoles Yet

The Nintendo Switch is currently the undisputed king of the handheld console platform (not to be confused with the mobile platform). So it’s only a matter of time before either Microsoft (Xbox) or Sony (PlayStation) releases their own potential usurpers. Microsoft already announced theirs, and Sony also has one in their sleeve—a PS handheld console to rival the Nintendo Switch or its successor. Apparently, it can also play PS5 games.

The information came from Bloomberg. Their unnamed sources claimed that Sony is looking to expand its market once more to the handheld console platform but with their PlayStation games in mind. Regardless of exclusives, this will put the hypothetical device in direct competition with the Nintendo Switch and the handheld Xbox.

You will need to curb that excitement, however. Like Microsoft’s upcoming handheld Xbox, Sony’s unnamed and rumored handheld console is likely still years away from a working prototype or model.

“Sony’s portable device is likely years away from launch and the company could still decide against bringing it to market, the people said, asking not to be named discussing private plans,” according to Bloomberg.

Even worse, its status is still up in the air. And there are a couple of reasons why Sony could cancel these leaked plans or at the very least, deny the rumors. This isn’t exactly Sony’s first time in the handheld console scene.

Remember the PSP and the PSVita? Not Many Do

Sony notably had a couple of forays into the handheld console scene, namely with the PlayStation Portable (PSP) and PSVita. Both were also in direct competition with Nintendo’s DS handheld console family.

Both also failed to become popular or take a strong foothold in the market. Lots of factors played into its failure, such as Nintendo’s innovation and fanbase, the odd UMD format, and poor video game quality.

With handheld gaming tech improving further, however, as was proven by devices like the Steam Deck and Asus ROG Ally, Sony could very well have another shot, especially if they’ll be bringing in ports of the PS5-exclusive games. Visuals and hardware robustness are two of the Nintendo Switch’s glaring weaknesses, after all.

And with the sales and financial success of Sony’s PlayStation Portal, that might provide them enough motivation for another handheld console.