Key information
In 2009, Sony attempted a major strategic shift toward a digital-only ecosystem with the launch of the PSP Go. By removing the optical disc drive, the company aimed to modernize its portable gaming division, yet the console faced significant resistance from both retailers and consumers, ultimately becoming a notable commercial failure.
The device featured a sliding design with 16 GB of internal flash memory and a proprietary M2 memory card slot. However, it was criticized for its 249 € launch price, which was higher than the PSP-3000 despite offering a smaller 3.8-inch screen. Furthermore, the console required expensive proprietary accessories and replaced standard USB ports, rendering previous peripherals incompatible.
Retailers like the Dutch chain Nedgame boycotted the system, citing concerns over the loss of physical game sales and the used market. Consumers were equally frustrated by the inability to transfer existing UMD libraries to the new hardware. Technical limitations, including slow Wi-Fi download speeds and a limited PlayStation Store catalog, further hindered adoption, resulting in poor initial sales figures.
Sony officially ceased production of the PSP Go on April 20, 2011. This experience influenced later hardware strategies, leading the company to reintroduce physical media for the PS Vita and offer both standard and digital models for the PS5, providing consumers with more choice.
