Source: Tom's Guide US | Keywords: PSP, Game, Rentals, PlayStation, Network | Themes: The Internet, Software, Digital Entertainment, Audio/Video Players
the latest firmware update suggests that PSP owners will be able to rent games.
There's speculation that the new firmware released for Sony's PlayStation Portable handheld console hints to game rentals. Version 6.00 arrived yesterday without much fanfare, renaming "Network Update" to "System Update," adding a security patch, and throwing in a few new colors to the XMB. Again, the firmware update doesn't scream "install me now," however many users who actually installed the firmware have discovered a hidden Easter egg.
Or did they? Based on the new firmware, a new feature has been added, allowing games to be "grouped and displayed in folders based on their expire date." If the hint didn't catch on, digital rentals usually have an expiration date, and will not play once that date has been reached. Unless the consumer renews the rental, the file is unplayable and must be deleted from storage.
Obviously, this new feature points to an upcoming (possible) game rental service on the PSP. At this time, there's no official confirmation from Sony, but it may be that the rental service will roll out on the PlayStation Network when the PSPgo hits the market. With this feature already embedded into firmware 6.00, the service should also be compatible with current PSP models using large memory sticks.
Is a rental service for the PSP a good thing? Sure it is, especially for those gamers on the go who want to watch a good movie while lounging on the hammock, or to get a good taste of a new game before shelling out the big bucks. Perhaps the underdog of the current console market will finally get some of the spotlight next month.
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Sounds promising. That may be the tipping factor to getting me to get one. I Like titles on the Nintendo DS but hate the ergonomics (or lack thereof) but being able to try PSP ones withought paying full price would be very nice.
Sony always "leaks" stuff this way. I am going to say it's safe to assume a rental system is in the works. I welcome it!
you need internet for that, or is the game/movie downloadable from a 3G connection at 128kbits/sec?
i want an ala-cart all you can eat rental service, similar to netflix model. 3 downloads at a time for a montly service fee.
I'm not big on rentals, but it sounds like a good idea, that many will enjoy.
If the price is right, this would be big for titles that are only worth it for single player/story/campaign mode. Or maybe they could make this into a try before you buy thing, wherein if you want to buy the game you could (discounted the rental price).
you need internet for that, or is the game/movie downloadable from a 3G connection at 128kbits/sec?
Mayble it'll just be over Wifi? Mind you, second-hand PSP games are now so cheap that it would be cheaper to buy than rent in many cases!
Another way to make a buck.
I'm skeptical. While it would be great to try before I buy, companies aren't thinking about that these days. Companies, not realizing that demand drives prices, can't understand why people don't pay more for the same product they are already getting. I mean, movie companies seem to think $1 per viewing is too little for a movie (this Redbox is evil). $1 per song is too little (thus iTunes is evil). And $15/month for as many moves you can move through the mail 3 at a time is too little (thus Netflix is evil). Not only that, but not getting more money when a product that's already been paid for is resold is really bad (thus Gamestop, Thrift-stores, used book stores, etc.. are true evil)
No, expiration won't be for the purpose of giving more to the consumer. Rather, they'll probably use it to turn off games they don't want you playing anymore (why play Madden 2009? Madden 2010 is already out!!!).
I hope they do bring rentals to psp then the homebrew community will figure out a way for unlimited rental time or free rentals, so i don't have to download and hook my psp to my pc. i find that a real hassle.
but its sony, they over-price everything from DLC to tv shows on the ps store.
Yeah this is good now how about making one that has both "sticks".