The Xperia PLAY is a special device. Not because it was highly anticipated (which it was) or long overdue (which it also was), but because not since Nokia released the “NGage” almost 10 years ago has their been a true “gaming” phone out on the market; and frankly, gamers wanted it.

You see the Xperia PLAY literally picks-up the pieces on all the shortcomings of the aforementioned device: it runs Android 2.3, rather than Nokia’s now defunct “Series 60 Symbian OS” (which powered the NGage); plays Sony PlayStation 1 games, newer PSP games, and of course Android games, rather than now fully defunct Sega Genesis (which the NGage worked with); doesn’t take physical hardware to play games (CD’s, cartridges, etc), like the NGage did; and most of all — this is the nail-biter — it’s actually a pleasant gaming experience. Most of all. because of the smooth Android 2.3 integration, non-gamers may actually enjoy it as well — though, that’s what the “arc” is there for.

All comparisons aside, the PLAY — like its Xperia linemate “arc” — is a knock-out of the park for Sony Ericsson, and Rogers was smart for picking it up. So, as we work on our in-depth written review, take a look at our even more in-depth video overview from Gilbert P of KissMyAppsTV.

Watch below:

[click here for mobile friendly viewing]

I think it’s pretty safe to say that Gilbert really loves this phone. Do you own one? Leave a comment letting us know your thoughts! Look forward to the full written review in the coming days.