Bally Astrocade vs PlayStation Portable (PSP)

The Bally Astrocade and PlayStation Portable (PSP) are two gaming consoles from different eras. The Bally Astrocade, released in the 1970s, was known for its advanced graphics and unique controllers. On the other hand, the PSP, released in the 2000s, revolutionized portable gaming with its sleek design and impressive game library.

General information

Bally Astrocade
PlayStation Portable (PSP)
Introduction :
The Bally Astrocade, released in 1977, was an early home video game console known for its advanced graphics and sound capabilities. While not as popular as other consoles of its time, it has gained a cult following among retro gaming enthusiasts. The Astrocade is considered a classic console and has become a sought-after collectible for those interested in vintage gaming technology.
Introduction :
The PlayStation Portable (PSP) was released by Sony in 2004 and quickly became a popular handheld gaming console worldwide. Known for its impressive graphics and extensive game library, the PSP was a classic among gamers. While it may not be as widely used today due to advancements in technology, it still holds a special place in the hearts of many gaming enthusiasts and collectors.
Advantages :
  • The Bally Astrocade has a unique design that stands out.
  • It offers a wide variety of games to choose from.
  • The console has a built-in BASIC programming language.
  • It has a sturdy build quality that can withstand wear.
  • The Astrocade has a unique controller with a built-in trackball.
Advantages :
  • Portable and lightweight, perfect for gaming on the go.
  • Wide variety of games available for all types of gamers.
  • Affordable price compared to newer gaming consoles.
  • Easy to mod and customize with homebrew software.
  • Ability to play retro games through emulation.
Disadvantages :
  • Limited game library with mostly obscure titles
  • Poor graphics and sound quality compared to modern consoles
  • Limited controller options and accessories available
  • Lack of online multiplayer capabilities
  • Fragile hardware prone to overheating and technical issues
Disadvantages :
  • Limited graphics capabilities compared to newer consoles.
  • Small screen size may not be ideal for all gamers.
  • Limited game library compared to other consoles.
  • Battery life may be shorter compared to newer models.
  • Lack of online multiplayer support for some games.
Year launched : 1977
The Bally Astrocade was launched in 1977, offering innovative gaming experiences to players. It was one of the early contenders in the home console market, showcasing the potential for interactive entertainment in households.
Year launched : 2004
The PlayStation Portable (PSP) was launched in 2004, offering a portable gaming experience with impressive graphics and a wide range of games for gamers on the go.
Manufacturer : Bally
The Bally Astrocade games console was manufactured by Bally Manufacturing, a company known for arcade games and pinball machines. The Astrocade was their foray into the home gaming market.
Manufacturer : Sony
Sony is the manufacturer of the PlayStation Portable (PSP), a handheld gaming console that was popular for its portability and extensive game library. Sony is known for its innovative gaming technology.
🔴 Popularity : Low.
The Bally Astrocade had limited sales and market penetration compared to other consoles of its time. It is not as well-known or widely used as more popular consoles from the same era.
🟡 Popularity : Average.
The PlayStation Portable (PSP) had a decent level of popularity during its time, with a significant number of units sold. However, it did not dominate the market like some other consoles, resulting in an average level of popularity.
Form factor : Home console.
The Bally Astrocade console is designed as a home gaming system, meant to be set up in a living room or entertainment area for a traditional gaming experience.
Form factor : Handheld console.
The PlayStation Portable (PSP) is designed as a portable gaming console, allowing users to enjoy gaming on-the-go. Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry around.
Official website : https://www.ballyalley.com/


Market and availability

Bally Astrocade
PlayStation Portable (PSP)
Console markets :
The Bally Astrocade was primarily available in the United States during the late 1970s. It had limited distribution in other countries, making it less common in international markets compared to other consoles of the time.
Console markets :
The PlayStation Portable (PSP) was available in various markets worldwide, including North America, Europe, Japan, and other regions. It was a popular handheld gaming console with a global presence.
🟢 Collectible : Yes.
The Bally Astrocade is now considered retro and collectible, with a niche market of enthusiasts seeking out this unique console for its historical significance and nostalgic value.
🟢 Collectible : Yes.
The PlayStation Portable (PSP) is now considered retro and collectible among gaming enthusiasts. Its unique library of games and portable design have increased its value in the market.
🟡 Console availability : Average.
The Bally Astrocade is relatively rare in the secondhand market, with limited availability. Collectors may find it challenging to locate one in good condition, but patient searching can yield results.
🟡 Console availability : Average.
The PlayStation Portable (PSP) is moderately available in the secondhand market, with a decent selection of used consoles and games. However, finding brand new PSP consoles may be more challenging.
🟡 Console cost : Average.
The Bally Astrocade is considered to have an average cost in the second-hand market. While not as expensive as some rare consoles, it may still require some investment to purchase.
🟢 Console cost : Low.
The PlayStation Portable (PSP) is considered a low-cost option compared to newer consoles due to its age and discontinued production. However, prices may vary depending on availability and condition in the second-hand market.
🟡 Game availability : Average.
Games for the Bally Astrocade can be found through online marketplaces and retro gaming stores. While not as widely available as newer consoles, there is still a decent selection for collectors and enthusiasts.
🟡 Game availability : Average.
While new PSP games are no longer being produced, there is still a decent selection available through online retailers, secondhand markets, and digital downloads. Collectible and rare games can be harder to find.
🟡 Game costs : Average.
The relative cost of games for the Bally Astrocade is average. While some games may be harder to find and more expensive due to its rarity, there are still affordable options available in the second-hand market.
🟢 Game costs : Low.
Games for the PlayStation Portable (PSP) are relatively inexpensive due to the console being older and games being readily available in the second-hand market. This makes it a budget-friendly option for gamers.


Technology

Bally Astrocade
PlayStation Portable (PSP)
Architecture : 8-bit.
The Bally Astrocade uses an 8-bit architecture, which was common in gaming consoles of the late 1970s. This architecture allowed for simple graphics and gameplay compared to modern consoles.
Architecture : 32-bit.
The PlayStation Portable (PSP) uses a 32-bit architecture, allowing for impressive graphics and gameplay capabilities. This architecture was common among handheld consoles during its release, providing a solid gaming experience.
CPU : Zilog Z80
The Bally Astrocade uses the Zilog Z80 CPU, a popular 8-bit microprocessor known for its use in various gaming consoles and computers during the 1970s and 1980s.
CPU : MIPS R4000
The PlayStation Portable (PSP) uses a MIPS R4000 CPU, which was a popular choice for portable gaming devices at the time of its release. It provided sufficient performance for gaming on the go.
Memory : 4 Kb
The Bally Astrocade has a memory of 4 Kb, which was considered impressive for its time in the early 1980s. This limited memory capacity influenced the types of games that could be developed for the console.
Memory : 32 Mb
The PlayStation Portable (PSP) has 32 Mb of memory, allowing for storage of games, saves, and other data. While limited compared to modern consoles, it was sufficient for its time.
Video output : RF
The Bally Astrocade primarily uses RF connection for video output, which may require an RF modulator to connect to modern TVs that typically use HDMI or composite inputs.
Video output : Composite
The PSP has composite video output connections, which can be used to connect to older TVs or with the help of a composite to HDMI converter, to modern TVs for gaming on a larger screen.
⚪ Graphics Processing : Unknown.
The Bally Astrocade's GPU information is not readily available or well-documented. Further research may be needed to determine if it has a dedicated GPU and any notable details about its performance.
🟢 Graphics Processing : Yes.
The PlayStation Portable (PSP) features a dedicated GPU, the Sony CXD2962GG Graphics Processing Unit, which enhances graphics performance and allows for more visually impressive games to be played on the console.
⚪ Internet connected : Unknown.
The Bally Astrocade is an older games console and does not have built-in internet connectivity. It does not have Ethernet or Wi-Fi capabilities for online gaming or browsing.
🟢 Internet connected : Yes.
The PlayStation Portable (PSP) is internet connected through Wi-Fi, allowing players to access online multiplayer, download games, browse the web, and more. It does not have an Ethernet port.
Game media format : Cartridge.
The primary game format for the Bally Astrocade is cartridges. Players can insert game cartridges into the console to play a variety of games.
Game media format : .
The primary game format for the PlayStation Portable (PSP) is the Universal Media Disc (UMD), a proprietary optical disc format specifically designed for the PSP system.


Gaming

Bally Astrocade
PlayStation Portable (PSP)
Controllers : 4 controllers / 4 players
The Bally Astrocade supports up to 4 controllers, allowing for 4 players to enjoy multiplayer games simultaneously. This feature promotes social gaming experiences and friendly competitions among friends and family.
Controllers : 4 controllers / players
The PlayStation Portable (PSP) supports multiplayer gaming with up to 4 players using multiple controllers. This allows for exciting multiplayer experiences on the handheld console.
⚪ Online multiplayer : Unknown.
The Bally Astrocade is an older console that does not have built-in online multiplayer capabilities. However, there may be third-party options available for online multiplayer, but this information is not widely known.
🟢 Online multiplayer : Yes.
The PlayStation Portable (PSP) allows multiplayer online gaming through its Wi-Fi capabilities. However, the availability of online multiplayer may vary depending on the game and server support.
🟡 Number of titles : Average.
Game titles for the Bally Astrocade were released in an average manner, with a decent selection available. However, due to its limited popularity, finding specific titles may be more challenging compared to more mainstream consoles.
🟢 Number of titles : Good.
Game titles for the PlayStation Portable were released physically on UMD discs and digitally on the PlayStation Store. The console had a strong library of games with many popular titles available.
Featured games : .
🟢 Featured games : Yes.
The PlayStation Portable (PSP) has several exclusive and iconic games such as 'God of War: Chains of Olympus', 'Patapon', and 'Monster Hunter Freedom Unite', making it a standout handheld console for gaming enthusiasts.


When choosing between the Bally Astrocade and PSP, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and gaming needs. If you’re a fan of retro gaming and enjoy collecting vintage consoles, the Bally Astrocade may be a unique addition to your collection. However, if you’re looking for a more modern and portable gaming experience with a wide range of titles, the PSP would be the better choice. Consider your gaming preferences and collection goals before making a decision.