In short
Let's go deeper
Let's say it clearly: the PlayStation Portal, at the launch, he had left me a bit... meh. It seemed more like a luxury whim for those who don't know what to do with money than a really useful device.
Un DualSense with a screen in the middle and too many limitations, so much so that I wonder: “But who buys this stuff?”.
Instead... surprise.
Two years after its launch, with the new features of Cloud Gaming, the Portal has finally found its place in the market.
Sony has done the miracle: now this device is not only useful, but it can even be considered a Game Changer for certain types of players.
Let's see how and why.
Design: brut (t) alist, but functional
Let's start with the design, which had already caused discussion at launch. It's always him, that DualSense divided in two with a screen in the middle.
It can't be said to be an aesthetic masterpiece, but in the end the look fades into the background.
Where the PlayStation Portal It really shines in its construction quality: the grip, even if larger and heavier than the original controller, is well suited to mobile gaming sessions.
Sure, inches sometimes end up covering part of the screen, but it's an acceptable compromise considering its small size and portability.
Weight? Still above average, but if you have a Decent fiber If you make yourself comfortable on the couch or in bed, you will soon forget about this 'little problem'.
The real change: Cloud Gaming
And here comes the good part. With the 4.0 firmware update and the introduction of Cloud Gaming (Beta), the PlayStation Portal transforms.
You no longer need your PS5 to play: a subscription is enough PlayStation Plus Premium and a decent connection, and a world of more than 120 PS5 games opens up to you directly from Cloud.
The tests are clear: if you have at least 13 Mbps of connection (preferably FTTH), play in 1080p at 60 fps without a hitch.
Titles such as Spider-Man: Miles Morales and Control fluids like oil flow, even when using an LTE hotspot.
Of course, the catalog Cloud It is still limited compared to the full library of PS Plus Premium, but we are still talking about a solid selection that covers many tastes.
And for those who complain about the compromises of Cloud Gaming (such as latency or lack of functions such as voice chat in parties): yes, there are, but overall the experience is surprisingly stable.
If we think that two years ago this device was only a 'remote player' for the PS5, the step forward is enormous.
User experience: finally comfortable and practical
Configure the Cloud Gaming It's a walk
Go to the menu, activate the option from the settings panel, and voila, you're ready to play.
The new home screen makes everything more intuitive, with quick access to games Cloud and the ones you've played recently.
The ergonomics of PlayStation Portal, already good at launch, is confirmed to be solid.
The adaptive triggers and haptic feedback are “almost” 1:1 with the DualSense, giving a familiar feeling during gaming sessions.
But there is always that 'almost': the analogs remain a little too small and tall compared to Original DualSense, and it takes a while to get used to it again.
Limits and compromises (because yes, they still exist)
Obviously, it's not all roses and flowers.
La Portal Doesn't support the entire catalog PS Plus Premium, and games purchased individually from the store are off-limits for Cloud. In addition, it is not possible to pause a session and resume it later like you do with the PS5: once you close a game, you have to start saving it again.
Any other problem? The lack of a catalog search function Cloud, which makes everything a bit cumbersome if you want to find something specific.
Sony, you could work harder on this.
And then there's always the price. Even if it is now more justified, spending more than 200 euros on a device that, net of the new functions, is still limited, could discourage many potential buyers.
Recommended PlayStation Portal accessories
To make the most of the PlayStation Portal, there are some accessories that could make a difference:
- Sony Pulse Explore: compatible “Airpods like” wireless earphones thanks to proprietary technology PlayStation Link.
- Sony Pulse Elite: over-ear headphones, also based on PlayStation Link, designed for higher quality audio.
- Screen protector: essential to avoid scratches and keep the display impeccable, this one on the link is also opaque to avoid reflections
- Carry bag: perfect for protecting the Portal while traveling.
Unfortunately, for now the Press Explore and Elite they are the only compatible wireless options, since Sony introduced the PlayStation Link instead of the classic Bluetooth. A choice that makes you turn up your nose (IN 2024 IT IS AT THE LIMIT OF DECENCY), but that guarantees a stable and lag-free connection... according to them.
Who is Portal made for today?
The fundamental question is this: Does it make sense to buy it? The answer is... it depends.
If you are a gamer who travels often or who doesn't have a PS5, the Portal With the Cloud Gaming It's a fantastic solution for accessing PS5 games without flogging in. If you live in a house where the TV is always occupied by family members watching buddies or some video, then yes, this is your salvation.
But if you are looking for a real portable console, better to look elsewhere.
La PlayStation Portal it's not a Steam Deck or a ROG Ally. It is a niche device that now, with the Cloud Gaming, finally makes sense, but it's certainly not for everyone.
Conclusion: full redemption arc?
La PlayStation Portal had an interesting journey.
From a snubbed and criticized accessory, it has become a device that has found its purpose thanks to the Cloud Gaming.
It's not perfect, but now at least it's useful and has real value for a certain type of player.
If Sony continues to invest in Cloud and to expand the catalog, the Portal could have an even brighter future.
In the meantime, we can say that yes, now it makes sense.
And this, for a device that already seemed dead at launch, is a miracle.
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