After the success of Nintendo Switch and Steam Deck, and after its own PSP, Sony entered the portable console market with the PlayStation Portal. However, this device has some characteristics that may not please all players.
For reference, the PlayStation Portal is just a remote breeder for the PS5 console. The device requires a stable internet connection and provides a means of transmitting PS5 directly to the portable console.
Is PlayStation Portal worth it? What do you need to know before buying the remote breeder
Sony has positioned its portal device as a way to play its PS5 without needing a TV – which makes it perfect for those who share TVs with family or friends, or for those who want to play in other rooms, away from the console.
Therefore, it is important to note that the PlayStation Portal is purely a Remote Play device, so it does not play games locally through integrated cartridges, discs or storage, as the switch or Steam Deck do. This means that it depends on an internet connection and a PS5 console to work, and the gaming experience depends strictly on the Wi-Fi power power.
In other words, given the PlayStation Portal function as a PS5 streamer (it just mirrors the console), it does not play games natively or transmit them from the cloud, and has no support for standalone games. The device was exclusively designed so that you can play your PS5 games on your own console, but elsewhere – especially in your home.
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How does the PlayStation Portal work?
The PlayStation Portal configuration is simple. Just follow the instructions that appear on the screen to activate Remote Play with PS5, and the portal will automatically connect to this system whenever you boot and pair with Wi-Fi. Once connected, you will have remote access to your PS5 using the screen and portal controls.
The gameplay transition from a PS5 console to the PlayStation Portal does not require users to redo their control scheme. Instead, all buttons are in the same place, which makes the alternation between playing on a console and the portal completely perfect – fortunately, muscle memory is easily transferred.
PlayStation Portal: Price and availability
The PS Portal arrived in Brazil on June 28, 2024, costing R $ 1,499. Currently, the device can be found in stores such as Amazon and kabum for R $ 1,439.10. For cost-effective purposes, considering that both work without the need for another console, the Nintendo Switch costs around $ 1,994, while a Steam Deck costs about $ 3,500.