PS Vita Slim – Software and Interface

Aside from the new screen and design tweaks, the PS Vita Slim’s insides are functionally identical to the original Vita’s. The software is the same too. You get the functionality of the original, but enclosed in a slightly different body.

You can read more in our original PS Vita review, but for those not familiar with the PS Vita yet, Sony’s handheld console has been greatly enhanced by the launch of the PS4. It’s now better at non-gaming tasks, and can run things like Netflix and Skype.

The web browser pales in comparison to what we’re used to from a smartphone, but it is a useful tool for looking up gaming news and even cheats if that’s your thing as it can run alongside any game you’re playing. The extra Friends, Messages and Party apps help you communicate and set up gaming sessions with your PlayStation Network pals.

There are social media apps for Facebook and Twitter, but as they aren’t as accomplished as the smartphone alternatives and we rarely find ourselves using them. However, the Vita’s virtual keyboard is very responsive and easy to use, especially when compared keyboard of the Nintendo 3DS – which can be a struggle.

One of the best features of the Vita is its relationship with the PS4. Remote Play lets you play all your PS4 games on the handheld, streaming directly over a Wi-Fi connection. You can even access your PS4 game library from outside your home, as long as the PS4 is left switched on at home and your Vita is connected to a strong Wi-Fi connection.

Read more: PS4 Remote Play is Sony’s killer feature and it’s not even new

Should I buy the PS Vita Slim?

The PS Vita Slim is a solid buy, but only if you don’t already have the original model. The changes are mostly cosmetic and not appealing enough to make upgrading essential. Plus, there are the screen issues to consider.

However, if you have not yet made an investment in a PS Vita, now is a great time to do so. The new model is considerably lighter and thinner and the original, and the 1GB of internal storage is a great way for new gamers to kickstart their Vita experience.

If you have a PS4, Remote Play is a fantastic feature for both consoles, while the PlayStation Plus Instant Games Collection is a great way to gradually accrue games without paying much money. The handheld itself, though, is less than a bargain at launch.

Verdict

The PS Vita Slim is still the same beast as the original, but it has been put on a diet, given a bit of a facelift and a new LCD screen. It’s still a great handheld, but not an essential buy for people who already own a Vita.

Trusted Score