Everything you need to know

The PlayStation Vita is finally upon us. We've put together an enormous guide to Sony's new console — what it can do, what you need to know and much, much more. We'll update this guide regularly so be sure to check back for new information over the coming days and weeks.

Still on the fence about Vita? You might want to check out The Positives and Negatives of PS Vita and our PlayStation Vita review too.

Page 1: Hardware Choices
Page 2: What's In the Box
Page 3: Launch Games
Page 4: Your Questions, Answered

Hardware Choices

3G and WiFi Models

The PS Vita comes in two flavours: an always-connected 3G model and a WiFi-only model that requires players to connect to a hot spot or their home wireless Internet connection to enjoy online features. Both models include the same online apps like Party and Near. The base WiFi model costs around $250 / £230 / €250, while the 3G models costs $300 / £280 / €300. Both consoles come with identical WiFi capabilities.

3G Monthly Data Plans

In the UK, Vodafone will be providing 3G coverage, while AT&T will cover it in the USA.

UK Vita users can use any 3G-compatible SIM right out of the box — there's no need to unlock your Vita if you want to use your existing SIM card.

3G Prices

To get the Vodafone plan you have to buy the PS Vita for £279.99 at a UK Vodafone store. This gets you:

• PlayStation Vita 3G model
• A free 4GB Vita memory card
• A free 3G SIM on Vodafone.

Top up the SIM with £5 and you'll get 250MB of data for 30 days, plus a free download of WipEout 2048.

In the US and Canada, AT&T is offering two different plans:

• 250MB of monthly data for $14.99
• 3GB of monthly data for $30

Launch Bundles

There are several special launch bundles available, depending on territory and availability.

PlayStation Vita First Edition Bundle
Available in: United States, Canada. Price: $349.99

Released on 15th February, one week before the Vita's official launch. Includes:

• PS Vita 3G + WiFi console
• Free Little Deviants game
• Limited edition case
• 4GB memory card

PlayStation Vita 3G + WiFi Launch Bundle
Available in: United States, Canada. Price: $299.99

Released on 22nd February. Includes:

• PlayStation Vita 3G + WiFi console
• 8GB memory card
• AT&T DataConnect Pass plan
• Free selected PSN game

The PSN game is a redeem code you must use before 31st March 2012.

Page 1: Hardware Choices
Page 2: What's In the Box
Page 3: Launch Games
Page 4: Your Questions, Answered