Playstation Network

The Playstation Network is the Playstations multiplayer format. Unlike Microsoft's Xbox, the Playstation Network is free to users. All that is required is an internet connection. The Network allows all gamers to compete with or against each other online. Shooters are one of the popular genres of game that takes full advantage of online play. In order to attract more people, Sony has added several features to the Playstation Network. Users now have the ability to watch videos, stream music, and even get packages such as the NFL Sunday Ticket. Although these packages are not free, they are still very alluring to consumers.

One drawback that Sony has faced is safety. In April of 2011, the network was hacked and had to be taken offline for 44 days. Sony spent $170 million to fix the problem. Also, in October 2011, they were again hacked. In this instance, they did not have to go offline, but did have to suspend 93,000 accounts.

Even with these security issues, Sony has done its best to resolve the problems and is doing what it can to give users the best online experience they can get, with Xbox Live being the biggest rival.