10 Biggest PlayStation Risks (That Totally Backfired)
5. Botching The Vita
Speaking of killers, Sony tried to break into the market with their "DS killer" AKA the PlayStation Portable in 2004/5. It didn't topple Nintendo's handheld empire, yet it didn't deter Sony from trying again.
The Vita had the potential to be something great. Dual thumbstick control, superior graphics and a host of PS3 and 4 compatibility.
On paper, it was an impressive bit of kit. First party games like Uncharted and Killzone: Mercenary were great showcase titles, whilst retro fans could play their digital PSone archive on the go.
It should have been Sony's redemption, such that if it didn't beat the DS' ranks, it could join them. Nintendo were doing their 3D thing, Sony could gone for the "technical powerhouse" angle instead. Instead, a convoluted online payment system for multiplayer and a proprietary memory card gimmick were the first detrimental hurdles for the handheld.
Despite selling moderately well, the lack of support from Sony towards the PS4's launch saw the Vita's flame start to burn out. As such, it's regarded as a failure in the mainstream's opinion, and Sony have never tried again in the handheld market.