2018
SONY

PLAYSTATION CLASSIC

MINI
PLAYSTATION CLASSIC

📜 History & Legacy

The PlayStation Classic, released by Sony in 2018, was a dedicated console designed to emulate the original PlayStation. This miniature recreation aimed to capitalize on the nostalgia surrounding the iconic console that revolutionized the gaming landscape in the mid-1990s. The device came pre-loaded with 20 games intended to represent a diverse selection of the original PlayStation's library. However, the PlayStation Classic faced significant criticism due to its emulation quality and game selection.

Reception of the PlayStation Classic was generally negative. Critics pointed to inconsistent frame rates in many games, use of the inferior PAL versions for some titles, and an overall lack of polish in the emulation. The limited game selection also drew criticism, with many fans lamenting the absence of key titles. Despite its shortcomings, the PlayStation Classic serves as a reminder of the original PlayStation's groundbreaking impact on the video game industry, even if the execution fell short of expectations. The console's legacy is more as a cautionary tale in capitalizing on nostalgia rather than a celebrated retro revival.

⚙️ Specifications

  • ❖ CPU: ARM Cortex-A35 Quad Core
  • ❖ GPU: Mali-450 MP4
  • ❖ RAM: 1 GB
  • ❖ Storage: 16 GB NAND Flash
  • ❖ Video Output: HDMI
  • ❖ Audio Output: HDMI
  • ❖ Controllers: Two wired PlayStation replica controllers
  • ❖ Power: Micro-USB

🎮 Top 10 Games

  • ★ Final Fantasy VII
  • ★ Metal Gear Solid
  • ★ Resident Evil: Director's Cut
  • ★ Tekken 3
  • ★ Grand Theft Auto
  • ★ Oddworld: Abe's Oddysee
  • ★ Rayman
  • ★ Syphon Filter
  • ★ Destruction Derby
  • ★ Jumping Flash!

💡 Curiosities

  • ? The PlayStation Classic's internal hardware was significantly more powerful than the original PlayStation.
  • ? Some of the included games were the 50Hz PAL versions, resulting in slower gameplay compared to the NTSC versions.
  • ? The console's menu interface was very basic and lacked advanced options.
  • ? Hacking the PlayStation Classic was relatively easy, allowing users to add more games.
  • ? The power button on the console served as a virtual "disc change" button for games that required it.
  • ? The included controllers lacked analog sticks, limiting gameplay in certain titles.
  • ? The packaging closely resembled the original PlayStation's packaging, aiming for a nostalgic unboxing experience.
  • ? The price was considered high at launch, especially given the emulation issues and limited game selection.
  • ? The PlayStation Classic was discontinued within a year of its release.
  • ? The use of open-source emulator software caused some controversy regarding licensing.