If you really want a Sony PlayStation Vita that can connect to the Internet via 3G, then you'd best get yourself to a Sony Store right now and snatch up a discounted 3G Vita bundle. Joystiq reports that the company has cut the price on that model and is dumping them for comparatively cheap in what may point to plans to discontinue this version of the hardware outright in the future. Hang on to that 3G Vita, as it could become a collector's item. Meanwhile, the Wi-Fi version remains alive, well, and full price.
A majority of the Sony stores across the US have dropped the price of the 3G-compatible PlayStation Vita, down to $199.97. The base 3G bundle includes the handheld, an 8GB memory card and a voucher for a free PlayStation Network game – if you sign up for data coverage, that is.
That's a pretty good deal if you want a Vita (remember that the 3G model also includes Wi-Fi connectivity) and you don't have to continue to use the 3G service if you don't want it. I never understood why Sony included the 3G connectivity in the device to begin with. True multiplayer games cannot be played over the 3G connection, it introduces a recurring fee to the experience, and you have to deal with AT&T in the United States if you want to use the service (recall the audible groan from the audience at E3 2011 when Sony announced the AT&T partnership). I don't know about you, but I can wait until I get into a Wi-Fi zone before downloading content from the PlayStation Store. I don't need to check my e-mail or Twitter on the Vita. The Near app isn't exactly a compelling reason to subscribe to 3G service. I know that Sony intended to future-proof the Vita when it introduced the 3G option, but somehow I doubt that whatever future Sony saw coming, it's not going to happen.
