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Sony to Release PS1 Classic Console – Just in Time for Xmas

by CrashOuch September 23, 2018 0 comments

The diminutive console will be less than half the size of the original iconic model and come pre-loaded with twenty
PSX-era titles.

Launching on December 3^rd, the console styling is taken from the so-called third generation of the original console, featuring text rather than symbols on the power and eject buttons. It comes with two original-style control pads (that means a cable and no analogue sticks, for you young’uns) as well as an HDMI cable and ‘virtual memory card’.

The titles confirmed for the console so far are Final Fantasy VII, Tekken 3, Wild Arms, Jumping Flash and Ridge Racer Type 4. Retailing at £89.99 in the UK, the console will take the unusual step of not including a power cable. There is also no compatibility with other Playstation consoles or access to the Playstation Network, a move that has already provoked the ire of some fans who would have preferred Sony to make a classic range available to download to the current PS4 console. This news also follows the announcement to halt production of the PS Vita in Japan next year, fuelling speculation that the PS5 will have a portability aspect akin to the Nintendo Switch.

Many retro gaming fans have been anticipating this release for some time, given the popularity of the classic Super Nintendo Entertainment System and Nintendo Entertainment System. Your humble writer wonders what the remaining fifteen titles will be and feels that Sony missed a trick by going straight for the epic Ridge Racer Type 4 and eschewing the series predecessor, Rage Racer. The inclusion of Final Fantasy VII was an obvious one, since the Remake is currently in the nether of development and because the title was the first Final Fantasy game to be released on the Playstation, way back in 1997. One thing we can be certain of is that a generation of new fans will be made this Christmas – if their parents ever let them have a go!

By Addy Carver (AKA Mage)