E3 2010 | PlayStation Plus: Sony launches new premium PSN service

Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. (SCE) today announced that it will offer PlayStation Plus, a new subscription service package on PlayStation Network.

In addition to the current free to use existing features and services, PlayStation Plus brings offerings including exclusive services and content on June 29, 2010, worldwide.  Sony says that PlayStation Plus will further enhance the PlayStation Network, which has recently achieved a cumulative number of registered accounts of over 50 million globally.

By accessing the PlayStation Store via PS3, PlayStation Network users will be able to purchase membership to PlayStation Plus, providing members with new options to expand and enhance their gaming experience and enabling them to gain an exclusive set of features and content.  For users’ convenience, PlayStation Plus will be available in different subscription options of 30 days, 90 days and 365 days.

PlayStation Plus features include:

• Full game trial

Members will have access to full versions of designated PS3 and PlayStation Network titles including PS one Archives (PS one Classics).  The titles on offer will be available for download on PlayStation Store for a stated period and change every month.  Members will be able to play the full version of the game for a designated period and even after the trial period expires, users will be able to continue playing the game by purchasing the game on-line.

• Games

Member will be able to play the full version of designated PS3 downloadable and PlayStation Network titles including PS one Archives (PS one Classics) and minis  with no limit of time as long as membership is effective.  These games will become available exclusively for PlayStation Plus members at no extra cost.

• Special content

Content such as avatars and custom themes many of which are exclusive will become available for PlayStation Plus members at no extra cost.

• Discounts

Members will have access to exclusive discounts on designated PS3 and PSP (PlayStation Portable) titles.  Titles will vary every month on PlayStation Store.

• Early access

Members will have early access to designated new game beta trials, game demos and video content prior to public distribution.

• Automatic content downloads and updates

PS3 will automatically download and install designated game demos and game updates and also download the system software update data.  PS3 will automatically start up at a designated time to download content and will turn off after the download has completed.