If you believe the marketing hype, downloaded games intended for the original PSP will play on the Vita just fine. There are supposed to be some titles that are dually-compatible and have special features or better graphics when played on the Vita, the way some games run at a higher resolution on an iPad as opposed to an iPhone. I doubt that any of that software is going to be available in the west at the time of the JPN-region launch though.
NCSX replied to me today, saying preorders will begin on October 15th and will have shipped to you on/around the 17th. Win and Win!
The fact that a handheld system is region free makes me not want to import it, only the games. I'm a patient man, so having it on day one no longer interests me. If you do import it, I'd like to hear your thoughts on the Vita.
Again, seriously wait and check out other import shops like buygame2.com. NCSX tends to have higher prices since they factor in cost to ship stuff from japan to them into the price.
NCSX is really overpriced, but are pretty reliable in sorting out any problems you might have. If you find a reputable place, go with a Chinese retailer. They'll get things out to you cheaper, but you'll have to do your homework to find one who is good.
It's not up yet since they are not taking pre-orders at the current time. It probably wont go up till after pre-orders start in japan (mid October) or until December when they find out how many units they will get. If you need more solid info, just email them and you will get a response in 24/48 hours.
Thanks a lot for the info.. I also will try with a friend of mine who goes many times in japan for work.. I'll ask him how would cost it to me including shipping.. But, about japanese battery policy, if I choose EMS, can I receive my Vita still sealed with its original battery?? Besides, can I choose airmail and ask my friend to not mention which it is an electronic gadget (but a book or some other stuff)?
There's no point for me to import the PSP Vita if it's region free and just a couple months away from its U.S. release. Besides why pay shitloads just to be an early adopter ? Especially in this economy.
Technically: No. It's also not an EMS policy. It is a JP Post policy. Boat, SAL, EMS -- they all forbid the shipment of Lithium batteries. Having said that, I have gotten things through, but I've had to bullshit on the customs form. It's possible, you just have to hope they don't run it through the Xray machine on the way out.
Someone should go to JP for vacation and bring back a bag full of Vitas.... Lithium issue solved - but who's going?
They would have to go twice. Once in October for the pre-order, then again in December to pick up the units. There isn't going to be a huge supply of units for launch and what is there will sell out quickly.
Ok Ok.. I really think I'd pass this time.. there's too many things going released in those months.. when I realize I bought all I have to, it would be already february and Vita would be in our store xD
