Sony Refutes Stereotype: Gaming CAN Be Social!

Ever since gaming became possible, its detractors have hurled the same criticism against those who partake: gaming is anti-social. Sony dissents. By changing their PlayStation Home product for the PS3 from a closed beta to an open party (as of December 11, 2008), it is now easier than ever for gamers to connect, communicate, and congregate.

PlayStation Home is a free application that is downloadable through Sony and accessible through the starting menu. Once inside, each user has the freedom to create his own avatar and explore the virtual landscape. Included in these landscapes are specific environments dedicated to specific games, as well as corporate sponsored games and spaces. Did I mention you can also create your own apartment in the community?

Like a visual message board, the PlayStation Home makes it easier to locate and converse with gamers around the world, not to mention all the multiplayer games that will undoubtedly be born through this virtual community. In addition to modern video games, community members can meet up to go bowling, play pool, or just shoot the breeze.

PlayStation Home makes obsolete one of the most voiced (and possibly strongest) criticisms against the video game lifestyle. In addition to this, it also facilitates the meeting of people with common interests in a customizable virtual reality. It is rare to be able to point to what “the next big thing” will be, but I have very high expectations for PlayStation Home.