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.
What a joke! Anybody who does a lot of PC online gaming will know that service quality varies widely depending on the server you choose to join. Leaving this decision in the hands of developers is asking for trouble! Who honestly believes that any developer will focus as much attention on Australian game servers when they can make much more money from the American and European markets? I for one feel far more comfortable having one company accountable for my online gaming experience. Microsoft are the only ones who have a significant online strategy... the other consoles treat it as a last minute add-on to try and compete.