For someone who grew up using all three PSP systems, it’s an absolute thrill to potentially see the emergence of a new one in the 2020s. This comes through as an influx of rumors is stirring around the existence of a new PS Vita system, with the codename “Q Lite” being initially indicated by Insider Gaming. But once the ball dropped, the internet has been ablaze with discussions about whether such a device makes sense in today’s gaming industry. And, indeed, I’m one of the many concerned that Q-Lite might not be what PSP fans such as myself are hoping for. Not only that but even if it was, its chances of success are slim.
New Sony Handheld Might Just Be a Fancy Controller
Before we commence, let’s go over the main features that Q Lite is reported to deliver. We know it’s suspected to be a handheld system, but it’s looking more like a secondary controller to the PS5 for Remote Play. Instead of the imagined Vita 2 pipedream from Sony fans, it appears that the Q Lite will function more like a GamePad than a complete handheld device.
Moreover, it’ll act as an advanced controller for the PS5. It’s built to deliver up to 1080p and 60FPS through a stable internet connection, allowing Sony fans to sit and relax with their favorite PlayStation titles. Players can expect some of the common aspects of a handheld device to appear, though, such as volume control.
Let’s go over our pros and cons on the matter to question if the Q Lite is ready for the 2020s.
The Pros
Tech has advanced immeasurably since the previous Sony handheld. The Japanese giant has been delivering high-quality content with its PlayStation consoles and VR headsets. Including a new handheld device might provide a great companion device for the ultimate PlayStation experience.
Consider that, just as with the Wii U, a secondary player has the luxury of having a screen of their own while a game goes on. It creates a more immersive experience for the gaming party, expanding the reach to more than a single screen. All great things.
Sure, it’s nothing particularly revolutionary regarding technology, but this time, the capabilities of the PS5 (or the PS4, at the very least) could offer some enjoyable new thrills. Imagine AR functionality with a built-in camera, capturing and producing new imagery to toy with; secondary/support control from another player while one wears a VR headset (like two pilots in different areas of a ship); allowing another PlayStation player to instantly log in with preferred settings – all little ideas that come to mind.
The Cons
In recent years, the Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, mobile devices, and streaming services have basically filled the void, or rather desire, to play games while players are on the move. Nintendo and Microsoft services come to mind, including Sony’s PlayStation Plus service, which offers cloud streaming for PC users. While limited, the range has spread, though the attention is primarily aimed at the list of streaming services.
Fans of PSP remember fondly the jailbroken days of the handheld systems, which was the fuel that saw the console skyrocket in popularity. By comparison, its successor, the PS Vita, never enjoyed such functionality. This contributed to its short lifespan, eventually being left to collect dust for modders to take hold of. The same fate might transpire for the Q Lite if it were to go into production, as it’s highly unlikely Sony would leave the door open to such modification.
Moreover, if the rumors are true that the Q Lite will only be a cloud-based streaming device, its usages are further limited. Sony fans won’t be able to take their triple-A games with them as they head outdoors unless there’s access to a beefy 5G connection. That makes sense in some regions, but its capabilities will be severely limited in others. In any case, this concept basically becomes merely an extension of the PS5; or, perhaps, the upcoming PS5 Pro.
PlayStation Q-Lite’s Success Depends on Unique Features
There’s no doubt that Switch and Steam Deck are dominating handheld gaming. With that in mind, is another handheld device really a suitable fit? Consider the popularity of Switch soared during the pandemic, which is now over. Not to mention, the streaming ecosystem is seemingly set to be dominated by the mobile industry.
Given these factors, I’m skeptical that a traditional PlayStation portable console would make sense. I’m also unsure that a PSP-like Cloud device could compete in such a saturated market. The reality, then, is that Sony’s Q-Lite will need something unique that appeals to a broad audience. It must deliver performance and functionality not available anywhere else, which is no easy feat. What that would look like, I’m not quite sure.
When the PSP first appeared, it blew players’ minds, being able to carry around such a powerful device. The PS Vita was the next step in compatibility and performance, but it ultimately flopped without jailbroken functionality. As popular as the PlayStation brand was during the PS3/PS4 era, players didn’t want or care about raw performance.
It seems that Sony would be wise not to attempt to compete directly with consoles like the Nintendo Switch and the Steam Deck. Simply offering high-performance gameplay didn’t work before and isn’t likely to this time around. Consider this poll from Push Square, for instance: not many fans aren’t liking the idea of a Remote Play Handheld device.
It has also been proven before that Sony games don’t really fit handheld systems in the same way as Nintendo’s. Whatever Sony is cooking for its upcoming handheld, it needs a point of difference that doesn’t rely on graphics. Whether it can deliver remains to be seen, but you best believe I’m on board for the ride!
All screenshots are from the official PlayStation Vita trailer, and Greatness is Portable with PS4 and PS Vita footage.