Sony’s newest handheld gaming device is called the PlayStation Portal, and I got to play an early version at a private demo. I also tried out the matching earbuds, now called the Pulse Explore, an updated headset called the Pulse Elite, and a new wireless connectivity feature that all three of these devices will use: PlayStation Link. The Portal looked and felt great, and ran well in my brief experience, but it remains to be seen if this handheld is worth the price.
First announced in May as Project Q, the PlayStation Portal Remote Player will cost $199 and preorders are set to start “soon,” Sony said, with a launch date sometime later in 2023. The Pulse Explore earbuds are also launching later this year, alongside the Portal, for the same $199 price. The Pulse Elite headset will come shortly after for $149.
The 8-inch LCD screen looked good, but I would have preferred an OLED display.
Speaking of DualSense, the controls on either side of the handheld replicate the PS5 controller completely. Unlike a Switch and its detachable Joy-Cons, the controls are fixed to the display (like with a Steam Deck). The haptics, triggers, microphone and so on that you’re used to on your PS5 are all present here. The touchscreen now serves as the touchpad. Players can access it with either thumb. The headphone jack and USB-C charging port are on the back of the device.
Games like Astro’s Playroom and Returnal felt exactly the same as I remembered them playing directly on the PS5 console. The one noticeable difference is that the analog stick pads are a little smaller than on the DualSense. The rep told me they’re actually the same sticks found on the PSVR2’s controllers.
If you want matching earbuds, the Pulse Explore will be available for $199 as well.
The new Pulse Explore earbuds will launch with the Portal, while the Pulse Elite headset will launch soon after. Both these devices will feature planar magnetic drivers, known for high audio fidelity. Both the Explore and Elite felt good. The earbuds were light and comfortable and come with a case to store and charge them.
The headsets can connect to the Portal using PlayStation Link or Bluetooth. In addition to the headsets, your purchase will also get you a USB dongle that plugs into the PS5. This lets the console connect to multiple headsets, or even your PC. Sony will also be selling the dongle separately, so players can move from their PS5 to a PC with the push of a button.
