First it was that Playstation 3 did not get red ring of death. Since ‘08 Microsoft has made huge strides in correcting this malfunction. Then it was PS3 had better graphics. But read any game reviews for games compatible with the Sony console and Microsoft’s video game system and you’ll find that the recent trend is that most games are developed better for xbox 360, featuring better graphics. Then the emphasis for PS3 was that it’s online service, Playstation Network, was free while Microsoft’s online platform, xbox live, cost $50 per year. But now Playstation 3 owners will soon be losing even more of their bragging rights if Sony follows through on plans to begin charging for Playstation Network. Sony Senior VP of Marketing Peter Dille, in an interview with video game megasite IGN, had this to say…
“…Will we charge for it or why don’t we charge for it? It’s been our philosophy not to charge for it from launch up until now, but Kaz [Hirai, Playstation CEO] recently went on the record as saying that’s something we’re looking at. I can confirm that as well. That’s something that we’re actively thinking about. What’s the best way to approach that if we were to do that? You know, no announcements at this point in time, but it’s something we’re thinking about.”
In the works are plans to offer several different subscription packages ranging friom $5 to $ 25 per month with differing features such as Early Access to All Store Content, Cross Game Voice-Chat Access, and Token Wagering (sounds like gambling). However the most promising proposed service would be Full Title Trial – 1st Hour Is Free (this would be the best demo service around, hands down) and PSP Minis (If this is compatible with PSP Go, the troubled handheld might just become successful). While it’s not certain if or when these subscription options will be offered, reports indicate that many features will be considered premium optional content, paying for it only if you want it, with currently free features (online multiplayer gaming) remaining free with any subscription option.
