PlayStation TV Guide

We didn’t think that we’d be reporting on another hardware launch so soon after the PlayStation 4, but Sony likes to keep us on our toes. Announced to a standing ovation in Japan last year, the PlayStation TV – also known as the PS Vita TV overseas – is due out this holiday in Europe and North America, complete with a snappier name – and a jet black exterior. The diminutive device, which has a handful of functions as outlined below, has been designed as a new contender in the emerging set-top box market, which already hosts household names such as Apple TV, Roku, and Amazon Fire TV. The twist here, however, is that the Japanese giant’s solution can, of course, play games – over 700 of them. Here’s everything that you need to know about the magnificent microconsole.

PlayStation TV DualShock 3 Bundle

What is the PlayStation TV?

Originally intended as a means for Sony to break into the fledgling on-demand television market in Japan, the rapturous response to the PS Vita TV’s Eastern announcement has prompted the platform holder to bring the miniature machine overseas. PlayStation TV employs the same operating system as the PlayStation Vita, so includes almost all of the same functions as the handheld – the major difference is that it outputs to a television screen in 480p, 720p, and 1080i via an HDMI output.

As a consequence, the microconsole is capable of playing some – but not all – PlayStation Vita titles, as well as various PlayStation Portable games, PlayStation Minis, and PSone Classics. In total, this equates to about 700 games, with many more to be made available in the future. Of course, as its name suggests, it’s much more than a game machine, with applications such as YouTube supported [Update: Actually, the list of compatible video apps is sparse right now], as well as MP3 playback and web browser functionality. You will need either a DualShock 3 or DualShock 4 controller to operate the console, which may or may not be sold separately depending on the package that you purchase.

When can I buy a PlayStation TV?

Size doesn't matter

The diminutive device will launch on 14th October in North America, and will be available in a couple of guises. The standard unit – which comes with a console, HDMI cable, AC adaptor, and AC power cord – will cost you $99.99, while the limited edition bundle will come with all of the above, in addition to a DualShock 3, a copy of The LEGO Movie Videogame, and an 8GB memory card for $139.99. Wal-Mart is going one step further, and offering a copy of Sly Cooper: Thieves in Time on top of the limited edition bundle for free.

Over in Europe, the slimline system will release on 14th November, and will only be available in one guise. Retailing for £84.99 (or €99.99), the unit will come with an HDMI cable, AC adaptor, AC power cable, and a PlayStation Network voucher granting you access to three games: Worms Revolution Extreme, Velocity Ultra, and OlliOlli.

Which controllers does the PlayStation TV support?

The PlayStation TV is compatible with both the DualShock 3 and DualShock 4. In some games and applications, the controller mapping may vary, but be aware that the Options and Share buttons on the latter controller reflect Start and Select respectively. Where touch controls are required, a Touch Pointer feature allows you to use one of the controller’s analogue sticks to mimic touch inputs. On the DualShock 4, you can also use the peripheral’s touchpad to operate this function if you prefer.

Does the PlayStation TV need a memory card?

The console comes with 1GB of internal storage out of the box, but if you’re planning to download plenty of games, then you will need to buy some additional storage space. The PlayStation TV supports the same memory cards as the Vita, so make sure that you’ve got some spare cash, as those things are expensive.

PlayStation TV FAQ

Does the PlayStation TV have Wi-Fi?

Yes, of course. The PlayStation TV has an integrated 802.11 b/g/n Wi-Fi receiver for wireless web access, as well as an Ethernet port for those that prefer to connect directly. Other ports include HDMI Out and a USB 2.0 insert, as well as Bluetooth access for wireless headsets.

Which games can I play on the PlayStation TV?

As mentioned previously, the PlayStation TV supports some – but not all – PlayStation Vita, PlayStation Portable, PlayStation Minis, and PSone Classics titles. In total, there are over 700 games compatible with the device, which should keep you occupied for some time. In general, you’ll find most of this software on the PlayStation Store, but the device does also come with a card slot for physical Vita releases. The full list of games, per region, can be located through here:

How does PS4 Remote Play work on the PlayStation TV?

PS TV Help

One of the PlayStation TV’s headline features is Remote Play compatibility, which will allow you to beam your PS4 into different rooms. While performance will depend on the quality of your Internet connection, in most circumstances, the miniature machine will allow you to play your next-gen games on various televisions around the house. Set up works identically to the Vita, with the functionality accessed via an application pre-installed on the system’s main menu.

It’s worth noting that Remote Play does work better if your systems are wired, as this reduces Wi-Fi interference. However, we’ve enjoyed a quality experience on the Vita using wireless connections, and that’s unlikely to change here.

Will I be able to use PlayStation Now on the PlayStation TV?

Yes, you will – but only in North America for now. The PlayStation Now open beta is scheduled to launch on the PlayStation TV alongside its release on 14th October, and will provide you with access to around 150 PS3 titles, which you’ll be able to purchase or rent for varying fees. Keep in mind that you’ll need a decent Internet connection (Sony recommends between 5-12 Mbps) to utilise this feature as intended.

Will I need a PlayStation Plus subscription for PlayStation TV?

No, but you will get added benefits if you are a member. As the PlayStation TV is essentially a stationary alternative to the Vita, being an active PlayStation Plus subscriber will entitle you to all of the same perks as regular handheld owners. This includes access to the Instant Game Collection – though do be aware that not all giveaways will be compatible – as well as PlayStation Store discounts, cloud save storage (1GB), and automatic updates. You will not need a membership for online gameplay.

Don’t worry if you already own a PlayStation Plus subscription, as you won’t need to re-subscribe to unlock any of the above perks, as long as you’re using the same PlayStation Network login details.

Do you have any other questions about PlayStation TV? Are you planning to pick up the diminutive device when it deploys? Tune in to the comments section below.

[source blog.us.playstation.com, via blog.eu.playstation.com]