Incredible amount of entertainment for your money.
Aside from cosmetics, the God of War edition of the Playstation Portable is a PSP-2000 model. I looked specifically for this version, because not only is it the only red one we can get stateside, but it is also a guaranteed TA-088v2 motherboard - the last version that can be used for flash-based homebrewing. Unlike other used PSP-2000s on the market (which may have the TA-088v3, or may not), this one is guaranteed. What is the difference you ask? Enabling homebrew on a TA-088v3 or later motherboard is still possible, but there are limitations, including:
a. Must have official firmware version 5.03 or lower, or there is no chance of using customized firmware (CFW).
b. Loads CFW into the system RAM, not the actual flash memory, meaning that every time you shut down the PSP, you must re-enable it. Keeping it in sleep mode is fine, but this can still be a hassle.
CFW aside, the differences to the other models is minimal.
Compared to the PSP-1000, this version feels more flaky and cheap, as the design in mind was to keep things compact+lightweight. The PSP-1000 is certainly more durable. However, the speaker location is improved from the 1000, the "square button degrading due to slamming into the motherboard internally" problem has been fixed, and the WLAN switch is moved to a better and less-likely-to-be-broken location. Also, the 2000 has the addition of mic input (sold separately through a special headset) and also TV-Output capability, allowing you to play PSP games on your TV at 720x480 resolution via composite cable. Other than durability, the design is overall significantly improved. The LCD screen is the exact same, but the internal RAM increases from 32MB in the 1000 model to 64MB in the 2000 model. Also, as the PSP-2000 comes with a 1200mAh battery as compared to the 1000's 1800mAh battery, you can expect 4-6 hours of battery time full charge instead of the 8hrs that 1000 produces. Additional batteries with larger storage capacities are available from 3rd parties.
Compared to the PSP-3000, the feel is pretty much exactly the same. However, the 3000 has a much improved LCD screen (the scan-line problem many early 3000 models faced has been dealt with) that is not only brighter but also provides a much higher contrast and color range. Also, the 3000 has a built in mic that the 2000 doesn't. All other features are the same, including TV-Output.
Aside the model differences, the system is amazing. It is capable of not only games, but also music, video, internet browsing, Skype, and connecting to your PS3 wirelessly and playing PS3 games while away from the PS3. The only gripe that might be had is comfort - hand cramps may occur after prolonged play if you haven't adjusted to the system (however, there are accessories to alleviate this problem if desired).
Even with all of these functions, 95% of the reason you're going to buy this console is about the games. The library is huge, and expanding. There are many games for fans of all genres, and multiplayer ad-hoc is available for many games as well. For a few select ones, you are able to play on the Playstation Network against people around the world, and with a PS3, you can also play certain games designed for ad-hoc multiplayer only (such as Dissidia: Final Fantasy) and play vs. people gathered on PSN. The entertainment possibilities are endless.Read full review
