2007: PlayStation 3 Online
Brave new world for Sony fans
How much of Gran Turismo HD will be free?There are two things “Everybody” seems to want. One, at least according to eighties legends Tears for Fears, is to rule the world. Secondly, it’s not a mystery that just about anyone loves the idea of something for nothing. “Free.” What better buzzword exists?
That’s what drew in many potential PlayStation 3 owners when Sony announced that its next console would feature absolutely no fees for standard online play. That trumps Microsoft’s well-established Xbox Live, which has charged $60 a year to all users since it was first launched during the 2002 holiday season.
Neither the console nor the interface is popular yet.Free is good. But, at what price?
Unfortunately, the cost may be quality. As of now, the PlayStation 3’s online interface is a billy goat compared to Microsoft’s sexy online screens. That’s not really anything to worry about, and most gamers given the choice between $60 and no $60 will surely take the latter anytime.
However, more problematic may be reports that the PS3 online network simply isn’t efficient. That’s a bit more worrying, and the problem seems large enough that it appears on any number of Sony fan forums. Most speculate that the company was ill-prepared for one million new owners to log on all within a one month period, and the stress is simply too much for an unproven network.
Another possible issue may simply be that Sony gamers are all “n00bs” when it comes to online play. Game network capable routers, Ethernet ports - it may all be new to Ratchet and Clank junkies.
Sony’s been online before. SOCA was huge. So should ’07 be for PS3’s network
Our Take: Despite early growing pains, it’s likely the PS3’s network will evolve and improve. It may never reach the level of effectiveness showcased by Xbox Live, but for $60 less a year it may very well prove worthwhile. Of course, the future appeal of PS3’s online community will depend on how 2007 titles are integrated into the network, most notably Gran Turismo HD. Unfortunately, two of the other big hitters for PS3 - Mercenaries 2 and Metal Gear Solid 4 - are not currently being developed with online multiplayer in mind. That means no competition in the ultra-popular shooter arena for Gears of War, Bioshock, or Halo 3.