Playstation Network

Playstation Network is an online multiplayer gaming and digital media delivery service, due to become subscription based in 2011.

Type: Proprietary platform.
Launch: November 2006.
Pricing: Hardware from £249. Playstation Network free, but due to start charging £50/year in 2011. 3rd party services- LoveFilm free for LoveFilm unlimited customers, or £5.99 most basic package.
Services: LoveFilm, BBC iPlayer, PS3 web browser, PlaystationHome virtual world, games store and online multiplayer gaming, free music V.O.D. service.
Demographics: 3,000,000 UK PS3users. 92% male, 79% 18-34.  Considered to be slightly older demographic because of higher console price.
Developer information: Closed platform, no small indie development as seen with Xbox.  Websites can be optimised for PS3 browser.
Stakeholders: Sony.
Investment: Much less than Xbox Live as Sony haven’t invested in a centralised network infrastructure (although some game companies such as EA host multiplayer games).
Transactional Model: Direct payment to third parties (eg. LoveFilm) (rev share deal undisclosed).  Payment by debit card – no points system.
Website: http://uk.playstation.com/psn/

WANT TO KNOW MORE ABOUT PLAYSTATION NETWORK’S ROLE IN THE CONNECTED SET MARKETPLACE? CONTACT US BY CLICKING HERE.