PlayStation 3 Online

PlayStation 3 owners looking for online play and downloadable content can log onto Sony's free PlayStation Network service through a broadband Internet connection. Sony may have launched its online service several years after Xbox Live, but the PlayStation Network service already offers a robust feature set, including multiplayer gaming support, online communications, and a PlayStation Store for content downloads.

All users can create a unique PlayStation Network ID that functions as a screen name for friends lists and online messaging. Each system can support multiple IDs and you can log into your account from different systems. Parents can also set their children up with protected "subordinate" accounts that have access restrictions to make sure little Johnny doesn't get into any trouble. You can send or receive text messages, as well as participate in voice and video chats if you have a microphone and USB camera.

The PlayStation 3 Web browser isn't going to replace Firefox, but it's serviceable.

The PlayStation 3 has a fully functional online Web browser built into the system. You can use the browser to surf the Web just like on a normal PC, but you might want to plug in a USB keyboard for typing in URLs and filling out forms.

The PlayStation Network also functions as the hub for all PlayStation 3 multiplayer gaming. Games, such as Resistance: Fall of Man, have dedicated PlayStation Network servers that can handle games with up to 40 players. You can check your friend lists to see what everyone is playing and send each other game invites to get new games going. The PlayStation Network provides full multiplayer gaming and matchmaking support free of charge for all games except massively multiplayer online games that may require a separate subscription. That's a good deal considering that Microsoft forces Xbox 360 players to pay for Xbox Live Gold if they want to get access to online multiplayer game modes.

Download demos, videos, and games from the PlayStation Store.

Sony isn't charging any online subscription fees, but there's plenty of money to be made by offering users a variety of downloadable content through the PlayStation Store. The store is an online shop similar to the Xbox Live Marketplace where you can download videos, game demos, game add-ons, and complete games. A lot of content, such as movie trailers and game demos are free, but expect to pay for the good stuff. The full-game downloads are mostly smaller, arcade-style games such as Calling All Cars or older PlayStation 1 games such as Crash Bandicoot. Sony has also started offering select PlayStation 3 Blu-ray disc games, such as Warhawk, for download from the PlayStation Store. Popular game add-ons include map packs, as well as additional game modes for games like Resistance: Fall of Man and MotorStorm.

Sony is also preparing to launch PlayStation Home, a virtual online world. The service is free and anyone with a PlayStation 3 can create a customized personal avatar to log into the world. You can interact with other players through text chat, voice chat, and emotes, in-game gestures, such as a simple wave or an elaborate dance. You can play in-world casual games, such as billiards, or jump into full PlayStation 3 games from within Home.

Meet up in the central lounge area to interact with other Home users.

Home will consist of public lounge areas but will eventually include specialized public spaces, such as a cinema area where you can download video content. You will have your own private space, such as a virtual apartment, which you can use to entertain guests. Sony, of course, will let you customize your avatars and living spaces with unique items bought online or earned through PlayStation 3-related activities. You will also get you own trophy room, which will function as a virtual representation of your in-game accomplishments.