Sony has told TechRadar that the PlayStation Network is not moving to a paid-for model, with the basic service remaining free despite rumours to the contrary.
A slide from a presentation led some to question whether the PlayStation network was going to remain free.
The slide suggested that PS was a key advantage and would provide a 'new revenue stream from subscription'.
Currently, one of the big selling points behind the PS3 is the free networked games service – something that the Xbox does not offer.
New forms of content
A spokesperson from Sony Computer Entertainment Europe told TechRadar that, although new ways were being sought to offer premium services, the core offering would remain free.
"We're continually looking at offering new forms of premium content & services, that will further enhance consumers experiences & expectations of the PSN," said the spokesman
"However, the core offering will continue to remain free."
Hirai clarifies
The quotes echoed those of a statement by Kaz Hirai to clarify the slide.
"SCE will further increase sales by offering users new entertainment through the combination of hardware, software, peripheral and PlayStation Network," said the SCE boss.
"Especially in the online area, we are studying the possibility of introducing a subscription model, offering premium content and services, in addition to the current free services."
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hiawa23
November 19th 2009
1. I own both consoles, & if Sony did charge I would not pay for PSN. Xbox Live I have no choice since all my online gaming is on that, but honestly I like the way Live is setup which is integrated into the Xbox experience whereas PSN just feels tacked on.
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