PlayStation Home Ho-Hum

Mike Bantick
Wednesday, 17 December 2008 05:00

Opinion and Analysis

It is probably a generational thing, and sure it is still a beta, but why did we really wait so long for PlayStation Home.  Well it looks like hackers have a new target at least.

I like talking to people, I like playing games against people, in general, I like people.

But, social networking leaves me a little cold, though the prospect of PlayStation Home was intriguing.

Having waited over a year for the release, we now have the open beta to romp around in.

In case you did not know, PlayStation Home is the 3D world interface into the PlayStation Network. 

Using a customised avatar, ‘players’ are able to explore different locations such as the Home Square, Home Theatre, Bowling and Shopping locales.

Each location is a chance for PlayStationites to meet other PlayStation Network avatars, view some advertising, look at film trailers, go bowling, check out some advertising, dance, shop for avatar clothing whilst viewing some advertising and generally hang out, and look at some billboards.

Okay, turning down the cynic meter now.  There is a great deal of potential social interaction to be had here, including setting up and launching multiplayer PS3 games, showing off your virtual apartment and in game trophies.  Later, when the virtual stores open proper, your avatar will have access to premium (read, pay for) furniture and clothing to truly express your digital self.