UMD â??never really got goingâ??, says Team 17

Team 17 Studio Head Martyn Brown has praised Sony’s newest PSP console, adding that the platform holder has made a wise move in embracing digital distribution.

Speaking to Develop, Brown said that the PSP Go “is a bold and exciting move” for the platform.

“As ever, Sony’s design is desirable and has a great image,” he added.

Brown – who saw Team 17 develop two Worms Open Warfare games for the PSP as well as a handheld edition of Lemmings – did not offer the same level of praise for Sony’s UMD format.

“I think it’s fair to say that the UMD as a media format never really got going,” he said, “and I think it’s clever for Sony to embrace digital distribution.”

He added that Team17 has already made its own transformation into digital titles. “I’m sure we’ll be supporting the new PSP with engaging digital titles in the future,” he added.

During its E3 press conference on Tuesday, Sony stated that it would continue to support the UMD format, despite concerns arising over its sustainability.