PS2 heads online in Aust - News - Business

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This story was printed from ZDNet Australia.
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PS2 heads online in Aust

By Staff writers, ZDNet Australia
November 01, 2002
URL: http://www.zdnet.com.au/news/business/soa/PS2-heads-online-in-Aust/0,139023166,120269581,00.htm

Sony Computer Entertainment Australia has revealed its plans for online gaming for the PlayStation 2, Australia's best-selling contemporary games console.

PlayStation 2 (PS2) owners wishing to play online will have to purchase a Broadband Gaming Pack, which will include an Ethernet Network Adaptor for the PS 2, an online game and a start-up disc featuring demos of upcoming online games. The price of the pack has not been finalised, but is expected to be similar to a PS 2 game, according to Sony.

Trials are expected to commence in early 2003, with the service becoming generally available by mid-2003. Users will connect to the network through their normal broadband connection, the cost of which is widely expected to inhibit take-up.

As opposed to the closed network approach of Xbox, in which Microsoft will maintain control over the network, including bandwidth to third-party games, the Sony system will entail games publishers and ISPs providing the hubs for interactive gaming.

"Our philosophy is to have a very diverse and inclusive platform that will enable content companies, games publishers and ISP portals to provide consumers with the broadest selection of new online experiences and entertainment from a variety of sources," said Chris Deering, president of Sony Computer Entertainment Europe in a statement.