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Step 1
Identify who the portable game console is for. How old are the people who will play the device? What kind of games will those people enjoy?
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Step 2
Set a budget. Know how much you want to spend on the console and games.
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Step 3
Game Boy Micro. This very small console is not as graphically stunning as other options, but it is the cheapest at under $70. It can fit in a pocket, making it easy to transport, but it might be too fragile for young children. The Game Boy Micro plays Nintendo Game Boy Advance games.
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Step 4
Nintendo Game Boy Advance SP. With a price under $80, it is an excellent choice for those on a budget and has a large, bright screen. It does not have headphone jack for sound. It’s fold-up style makes it easy to transport, but it is significantly bigger than the Micro. There is a large library of Game Boy Advance games available, but most of the games are targeted to children. Most Game Boy Advance games sell for $25 or less.
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Step 5
Nintendo DS Lite. The Nintendo DS features two screens that allow games to be interactive in a way other consoles can’t. Many games require the gamer to use the console in interesting ways, like drawing bridges for characters to cross or blowing on the console to blow up balloons. The graphics are a step above the Game Boy Micro and Advance SP but below the PSP. The DS also has Wi-Fi capabilities, meaning you can connect with other gamers. The DS has a wide assortment of fun and challenging games. It will also play Game Boy Advance games. The DS costs $129.99. It is larger than the Game Boy Advance. DS games typically are less than $35.
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Step 6
Sony PlayStation Portable. The PSP is the best portable game console in terms of graphics. It’s single large screen plays movies as well as games, making it ideal for older gamers. There are also more adult games available for the PSP, although the overall library of games is smaller than that of the Nintendo DS. Some people have complained that the PSP does not last as long between charges as the Nintendo consoles. Newly released games are generally around $40, but some PSP games can be found for much less or much more. Movies are generally less than $20.
