The Sony PlayStation Classic is as simple and fun as you expect

The PlayStation Classic is an imitator, and Sony does not seem largely shameful of this fact. The device, a miniature retro console launched next month for $ 99.99, is about the same as NES's NES Classic and SNES Classic devices, with the exception of its slightly more up-to-date library of 20 PS1 games. from the notable shift from 2D to 3D graphics that represent many of these titles.

Nevertheless, if you are a fan of the trend of mini-consoles and a fanatic retro game, the PS Classic will satisfy most of your needs. Sony urged members of the press to visit its San Mateo, California office earlier this week to watch the console and play any of its games for a few hours. What I can tell you more obvious is that this device meets all expectations.

The console is well designed and adorable. It will be an instant collection thief for those who miss the aesthetics of the old school console and are already making a place on their shelf or in the configuration of their living room. In terms of how it works, it looks like Nintendo devices, up to a nearly identical carousel interface for game selection and backup management.

Similar to the Nintendo mini-consoles, Sony even reproduces some of the frustrating elements of the 32-bit game, including the lack of wireless game controllers. Certainly, you get a 1.5 meter longer cord for the two included PlayStation Classic Controllers, which is a huge advantage. And these controllers use the USB standard, not a proprietary connector.

But Sony says that controllers can not be connected to other USB devices, such as a PC or a PS4. And unfortunately, the controllers themselves do not contain any buttons that return you to the menu. You must physically press the PS Classic reset button to exit one game and open another.

The same problem exists on the NES Classic and SNES Classic, and it is very painful. A workaround has been to use retro Bluetooth controllers from a company such as 8bitdo, but it's hard to understand why Sony did not see this problem with Nintendo devices and did not try to fix it.

Another complaint that you could probably make about the device is that the games may not fit as well, at least not like the classic 8-bit and 16-bit that you get on the Nintendo consoles. I had a hard time getting my head around the controls for Cool boarders 2and I found the original Metal Gear Solid be obtuse alarmingly, having played it for the last time maybe 15 years ago.

Photo by Nick Statt / The Vege

Now, if you're an unconditional fan who remembers these games like yesterday, you'll probably be fine. But it should be noted that this era, although it is gold for some type of game lover, will not be as accessible as the generation of SNES hits. The edge We'll have a more complete assessment of the PS Classic lineup later this month when we get our hands on a proper exam unit and spend more time with the camera library.

That being said, the PS Classic is a small, loyal and well-made device, and it's easy to see how popular it will be among former PS1 owners. Given the likelihood that Sony is also making enough of these devices, the prospect of buying one in the future will be all the more justified, knowing that you will not have to watch sales closely. flash at Amazon or GameStop. (You can preorder a Classic PS now.)

The device begins trading on December 3 and the $ 99.99 purchase offers you two controllers, with some of the titles supporting local cooperation. Even as a dedicated Final Fantasy VII and Tekken 3 machine – a very fun machine to watch – it's not a bad deal.