PaulH
- edited
Sony Computer Entertainment Canada announced yesterday intentions to release a 3G/Wi-Fi PS Vita model in Canada on October 2, powered by the Rogers 3G wireless network. The PS Vita 3G model will let owners access a wealth of online features wherever there is a Rogers 3G wireless signal, keeping them connected to their content and friends.
Features accessible on-the-go with the 3G model include a wide range of social networking services, online turn-based multiplayer gaming (for compatible games), instant ranking and leaderboard updates, real-time community news, and downloadable add-on content.
Social networks that can be accessed on the PS Vita 3G model include Facebook, Twitter, foursquare and Flickr. Sony also has their own built-in location-based application called "near" which lets PS Vita owners see what games people in their vicinity are currently playing, which are the most popular, and lets you "gift" virtual goods to nearby gamers.
At launch, Rogers will off two data packages on a month-to-month basis with no long-term contract. The two data plans at launch include:
1. 250 MB for $15.00, 30-day data package which starts at the date and time of purchase
2. 5 GB for $35, 30-day data package which starts at the date and time of purchase
Both data packages can be activated directly on the PS Vita device via a seamless payment interface. The PS Vita 3G will come equipped with a special SIM card for use solely on the Rogers wireless network.
The new 3G bundle will also include downloadable vouchers for Gravity Rush and Unit 13, the former being one of the best games currently available for the PS Vita, and the latter a serviceable third-person shooter. Excellent deal, especially when you consider that US owners who bought the 3G model only got Super Stardust Delta (a $10 downloadable PSN game).
Box art for the PS Vita 3G/Wi-Fi (source: PlayStation Blog)
SCEC's General Manager, Stephen Turvey, thinks the PS Vita with a 3G connection will "completely transform the way Canadian gamers play on the go", by offerings new ways to interact with friends and game content.
US customers have been able to purchase a PS Vita 3G model since the console's launch on February 22, with AT&T being the American mobile connectivity partner.
While 3G access offers many benefits to the PS Vita, there are some limitations such as no ability to play real-time multiplayer (3G connections aren't fast enough), and PlayStation Store downloads are limited to 20MB (higher MB content has to be downloaded using Wi-Fi).
With today's announcement, we're less than three weeks before the launch of the PS Vita 3G model, so the wait won't be very long. If you feel that Wi-Fi is good enough for your gaming needs, be sure to check out the PS Vita Wi-Fi model, available now on futureshop.ca:
Take on opponents across the globe. Control every movement with the tap of a finger or blow up enemy fighters soaring through your living room. Some of your favourite PS3 brands, and some new titles developed just for PlayStation Vita let you discover a gaming experience with no limits. The world is in play.
