Review: Playstation Portable Go Messenger service

Go Messenger is a new software add-on for Sony’s Playstation Portable (PSP) games console that allows users to communicate with each other in various ways: via video, voice and text chat or messaging.

The software itself is free, but a number of crucial elements need to be in place before you can make full use of what Go Messenger has to offer, namely a PSP, access to a wireless internet connection and – if you want to use the video and voice functions – Sony’s Go Cam PSP camera accessory with built-in microphone (sold separately for about £35).

You’ll also need to find some similarly equipped friends for PSP-to-PSP communication, though it is also possible to chat with users of BT’s PC-based Softfone VoIP software. Setup is somewhat fiddly. We had to update our PSP and download new software before we could even register. Even then we experienced some inexplicable network problems during the initial logon.

Once it’s up and running, though, Go Messenger works pretty well. The main interface is quick, logical and easy to use. It’s unlikely to be of much interest to anyone over 15, particularly the texting element, which is a drag on the Playstation’s software keyboard.