Hands-on: Super Stardust Portable

by Andrew Yoon { Jul 21st 2008 at 2:45PM }

What is Super Stardust Portable? Well, it's exactly what it sounds like. It's a PSP version of Super Stardust HD, ready to play anywhere you go. The PSN download-exclusive title is making the big jump from PS3 to PSP, and Housemarque (developers of the original SSHD) have succeeded in creating an authentic Stardust experience for the handheld.

There are obviously going to be two big questions on everyone's mind regarding SSHD. Firstly, the controls. PSP may not have a second analog stick, so how will this work? Well, you simply use the face buttons to shoot in the direction you'd like. It may take a little while to get accostmed to, but SSHD vets will be boosting, bombing and shooting in no time. (ProTip: To do a circular attack with the Gold Melter, press all the face buttons at once.) Secondly, the graphics. While the visuals are obviously toned down from the PS3, the PSP version is able to render a surprising amount of enemies on screen while maintaining a silky smooth framerate. It may not be PSP's best looking game, but for a quick pick-up-and-play title, SSP offers more than enough detail.

Gallery: Super Stardust Portable

Surprisingly, the team at Housemarque has added all the content featured in the subsequent SSHD expansions into the PSP game. Expect the terrifying red enemies which will fill the entire screen in a matter of seconds. Thankfully, there are also nukes at your disposal, which sends a shockwave through the entire planet, destroying everything in its path.

For those that are unfamiliar with Super Stardust HD, be aware that the original PS3 game earned such an overwhelming response from fans for a reason. Navigating your ship around an endless stream of falling asteroids and enemies is just good old fashioned fun. The careful balance of weapons and bombs adds a bit of strategy to an otherwise reflex-driven game. Check out PS3 Fanboy's review to find out more about the original.

Tags: e308, housemarque, joystiqfeatures, super-stardust, super-stardust-portable

Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)

Extinction @ Jul 21st 2008 3:00PM

Please add the option to let the analog act as aiming and the buttons act as moving! Along with ad-hoc multiplayer, trophies and custom soundtracks!

bryansurvive @ Jul 21st 2008 4:28PM

i was thinking the same thing. except the custom tracks.but i agree as well.

bryansurvive @ Jul 21st 2008 3:02PM

i like it and dont at the same time. i cant wait to hear more about this. whats the release date on this?

Jimmijam @ Jul 21st 2008 3:46PM

Perfect for a portable title! Just enough of a quick play on my commute, looking forward to it.

BTW, is there any ad-hoc or infrastructure on this thing? On the PS3, there's the co-op mode and, of course, the ridiculous rankings.

Kiltman67 @ Jul 21st 2008 4:28PM

Bit nervous about how the controls are going to turn out and if they'll be able to get anywhere near analog like with the face buttons. Everyday Shooter always stood out to me as a great game spoiled by clunky controls and I suspect this'll be the same.