PSP owners have had downloadable content through the PlayStation Store for some time now, but the rather hefty requirement of PS3 ownership acted as a $400 roadblock to many cash-strapped consumers. Sony has at last heard these cries, and answered by offering a limited version of the
PlayStation Store as a downloadable component for PCs.
While anyone is able to browse the store, those with a PlayStation Network (PSN) ID can sign in and begin downloading content immediately, for transfer to their PSP's memory card. Currently only two full PSP games are being offered (Syphon Filter: Contract Ops and Wipeout Pure) but over a dozen original PSOne titles are offered, along with game demos, game and movie trailers, and new wallpapers or themes.
The cost and size of the PSP games are variable -- currently, Syphon Filter costs $10.99 for a 67.5MB download, while Wipeout Pure rings up at $15.99 for 156MB.
The PSOne games thus far are a flat rate of $6.99, with the exception of Castlevania: Symphony of the Night costing $10.99. Purchasing a PSOne title will allow you to play it on both your PS3 and your PSP, provided you follow the instructions given on the PlayStation Store website.