WonderSwan vs Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5)

The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) and the WonderSwan are two very different gaming consoles from different eras. The PS5 represents the latest in gaming technology, while the WonderSwan is a classic handheld device from the past.

General information

WonderSwan
Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5)
Introduction :
The WonderSwan was a handheld game console released by Bandai in 1999 in Japan. It featured a monochrome screen and a unique vertical design, making it stand out among other handheld consoles of its time. While it was not as popular as other handhelds like the Game Boy, the WonderSwan has gained a cult following among retro gaming enthusiasts and collectors, making it a sought-after classic in the gaming community.
Introduction :
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) is the latest generation of Sony's highly popular gaming console series. Released in 2020, the PS5 has quickly become a must-have item for gamers worldwide. With its powerful hardware, lightning-fast load times, and stunning graphics, the PS5 offers an immersive gaming experience like never before. Its innovative DualSense controller and exclusive game titles make it a standout choice for both casual and hardcore gamers.
Advantages :
  • Portable design makes it easy to game on the go
  • Unique vertical orientation for a different gaming experience
  • Long battery life for extended play sessions
  • Wide variety of games available, including popular franchises
  • Affordable price point compared to other handheld consoles
Advantages :
  • Faster loading times for games and applications
  • Improved graphics and performance for next-gen games
  • Backwards compatibility with PS4 games
  • DualSense controller with innovative haptic feedback
  • 4K Blu-ray player for high-quality media playback
Disadvantages :
  • Limited game library
  • Lack of third-party support
  • Small screen size
  • Short battery life
  • Limited accessories available
Disadvantages :
  • Limited backwards compatibility with older PlayStation games.
  • Higher price point compared to previous PlayStation consoles.
  • Limited availability due to high demand and production constraints.
  • Large size and bulky design may not fit well in all entertainment setups.
  • Limited storage capacity for games and media compared to other consoles.
Year launched : 1999
The WonderSwan was launched in 1999, offering a portable gaming experience with a monochrome screen. Despite facing tough competition, it gained popularity in Japan and had a variety of game titles.
Year launched : 2020
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) was launched in 2020, introducing cutting-edge technology and enhanced gaming experiences to players worldwide, marking a significant advancement in the gaming console industry.
Manufacturer : Bandai
Bandai, a Japanese toy and video game company, manufactured the WonderSwan handheld gaming console. Known for its unique design and library of games, the WonderSwan was a popular choice among gamers.
Manufacturer : Sony
Sony is the manufacturer of the PlayStation 5 (PS5), the latest gaming console in the PlayStation series known for its cutting-edge technology and exclusive game titles.
🔴 Popularity : Low.
The WonderSwan had limited popularity compared to other consoles, with lower sales numbers and a smaller market share. It is considered a niche console among collectors and retro gaming enthusiasts.
🟢 Popularity : High.
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) is currently one of the most popular and sought-after gaming consoles on the market. It has sold millions of units and has a significant share of the gaming console market.
Form factor : Handheld console.
The WonderSwan is a portable handheld console designed for gaming on the go. Its compact form factor allows for easy transport and gameplay anywhere, making it ideal for travel or commutes.
Form factor : Home console.
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) is designed as a home console, meant to be used in a stationary location for immersive gaming experiences on a TV or monitor.


Market and availability

WonderSwan
Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5)
Console markets :
Console markets :
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) is available in various markets worldwide, including North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. It has been released in multiple countries and regions to meet global demand.
🟢 Collectible : Yes.
The WonderSwan is considered retro and collectible due to its limited release and unique library of games. Its popularity among collectors and nostalgic gamers has driven up its value in recent years.
⚪ Collectible : Unknown.
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) is still a current generation console, so its status as retro or collectible is uncertain. However, with its popularity and limited availability, it could potentially become collectible in the future.
🟡 Console availability : Average.
The WonderSwan can be found on the secondhand market fairly easily, but availability may vary depending on the region. It is considered a collectible item for retro gaming enthusiasts.
🟡 Console availability : Average.
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) is currently available in limited quantities at retail stores, with occasional restocks. Secondhand market prices are high due to high demand and low supply.
🟡 Console cost : Average.
The WonderSwan can vary in price depending on its condition and availability. It is considered an average cost console compared to other options on the market, with prices influenced by its rarity.
🔴 Console cost : High.
The relative cost of the Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) is considered high due to its high demand, limited availability, and premium features. It may be more expensive compared to older console models.
🟡 Game availability : Average.
Games for the WonderSwan can be found through online marketplaces and retro gaming stores. Some titles may be harder to come by due to the console's limited release outside of Japan.
🟢 Game availability : Good.
Games for the Sony PlayStation 5 are readily available, with a wide selection of new releases and popular titles. Additionally, many older PS4 games are compatible with the PS5, expanding the library even further.
🟡 Game costs : Average.
The relative cost of games for the WonderSwan is average. While some games may be more affordable due to lower demand, others may be harder to find and therefore more expensive on the second-hand market.
🟡 Game costs : Average.
The relative cost of games for the Sony PlayStation 5 is average compared to other gaming consoles. While some titles may be more expensive due to high demand, there are also affordable options available.


Technology

WonderSwan
Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5)
Architecture : 16-bit.
The WonderSwan uses a 16-bit architecture, providing decent graphics and gameplay capabilities for its time. While not as powerful as later consoles, it still offered a good gaming experience.
Architecture : 64-bit.
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) uses a 64-bit architecture, providing powerful performance for gaming and multimedia experiences. This advanced architecture allows for high-quality graphics, fast loading times, and seamless gameplay.
CPU : NEC V30MZ
The WonderSwan uses the NEC V30MZ CPU, which is a 16-bit processor known for its efficiency and performance in handling games on this handheld console.
CPU : AMD Ryzen Zen 2
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) uses an AMD Ryzen Zen 2 CPU, featuring 8 cores and 16 threads. This powerful CPU provides high performance for gaming and multitasking on the console.
Memory : 256 Kb
The WonderSwan has 256 Kb of memory, allowing for storage of game data and system operations. While small by today's standards, it was sufficient for the games of its time.
Memory : 825 Gb
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) comes with 825 Gb of memory, providing ample storage space for games, apps, and media content, ensuring a smooth gaming experience without the need for frequent storage management.
Video output : Composite
The WonderSwan has composite video output connections, which can be used to connect to older TVs or modern TVs with the appropriate adapters.
Video output : HDMI
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) is equipped with HDMI output connections, which are commonly used to connect to modern TVs and monitors for high-quality video and audio transmission.
⚪ Graphics Processing : Unknown.
The specific details about a dedicated GPU in the WonderSwan are not readily available. Further research may be needed to determine the presence and capabilities of a dedicated GPU in this console.
🟢 Graphics Processing : Yes.
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) is equipped with a dedicated GPU, the AMD RDNA 2-based custom GPU, offering advanced graphics performance and ray tracing capabilities for an immersive gaming experience.
⚪ Internet connected : Unknown.
The WonderSwan's internet connectivity is unknown. It does not have any notable details such as Ethernet or Wi-Fi capabilities mentioned in its specifications.
🟢 Internet connected : Yes.
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) is internet connected, featuring both Ethernet and Wi-Fi capabilities for online gaming, streaming, and downloading games and updates.
Game media format : Cartridge.
The WonderSwan primarily uses game cartridges as its game format. These cartridges are inserted into the console to play games, making it a convenient and portable gaming device.
Game media format : Download.
The primary game format for the Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) is digital downloads. Players can purchase and download games directly from the PlayStation Store onto the console's internal storage.


Gaming

WonderSwan
Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5)
Controllers : 1 controller / 1 player
The WonderSwan typically supports one controller for single-player gameplay. It does not have built-in multiplayer capabilities, requiring additional consoles and copies of the game for multiplayer experiences.
Controllers : 4
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) supports up to 4 controllers for multiplayer gaming, allowing for a more immersive and competitive gaming experience with friends and family on a single console.
⚪ Online multiplayer : Unknown.
The WonderSwan's online multiplayer capabilities are not well-documented, and it is unclear if it supported online play. Further research may be needed to determine its multiplayer functionality.
🟢 Online multiplayer : Yes.
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) allows players to enjoy multiplayer online gaming with friends and other players around the world, offering a dynamic and engaging gaming experience.
🟡 Number of titles : Average.
Game titles for the WonderSwan were released in a decent manner, with a variety of popular titles available. However, due to the console's limited popularity, finding certain titles may be more challenging.
🟢 Number of titles : Good.
Game titles for the Sony PlayStation 5 have been released consistently with a good variety of exclusive and third-party titles available. The console's popularity ensures a strong market for new and used games.
🟢 Featured games : Yes.
The WonderSwan has notable exclusive games such as 'Final Fantasy' titles, 'Gunpey', and 'Rhyme Rider Kerorican'. These games are iconic within the WonderSwan community.
🟢 Featured games : Yes.
The Sony PlayStation 5 has exclusive games such as Demon's Souls, Spider-Man: Miles Morales, and Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, which are highly acclaimed and showcase the console's capabilities.


When choosing between the Sony PlayStation 5 and the WonderSwan, it ultimately comes down to your preference for modern gaming experiences versus retro gaming nostalgia. If you’re looking for cutting-edge graphics and gameplay, the PS5 is the clear choice. However, if you have a soft spot for vintage handheld consoles, the WonderSwan may be the perfect fit for you.