How to Choose a Next-Generation Handheld Console

If you're like me, you love gaming so much that you have to take it with you when you're going to be away from your consoles. Nintendo and Sony each offer a portable handheld gaming system, but which should you buy? Both provide a variety of features and exclusive games, so it's all in determining which will fulfill your portable gaming needs.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Think of who you are buying this for. A Nintendo DS offers more games suitable for young children and beginner gamers, while a Sony PSP mostly offers games suitable for teenagers and experienced gamers.

2. Consider if you'd prefer your handheld to do more than gaming. The PSP can play MP3s and videos, including UMD format movies and TV shows that you can purchase at any video retailer.

3. Be aware that the DS and the PSP offer different quantities of particular genres if you prefer certain genres of games. The DS is inundated with puzzle games, such as "Brain Age" and "Tetris DS," and family adventure games such as "Legend of Zelda" and "Super Mario Bros." Look for the PSP if you prefer first-person shooters, sports games or heavy role-playing games. Likewise, if you prefer particular game franchises of either Nintendo or Sony, take that into account as well.

4. Take into account whether or not you have other games that will play on a handheld. For example, Game Boy Advance games will play on the DS. Also, if you already have a PlayStation 3, you can play PS3 games on a PSP. It may be more beneficial and cost-effective if you purchase a handheld that can play games you already have.