Sony looking at charging for PlayStation Network (PSN)

The free-ness of the PlayStation Network (PSN) has undoubtedly been one of the saving graces for the PS3 network, but how much longer can Sony fans expect this free ride to last?

In a recent interview Peter Dille, the head of PlayStation Network (PSN) added fuel to the rumours of introducing a fee for the service.

One of Sony’s major selling points when it comes to the PS3 is that the online is free, when compared to its nearest competitor the Xbox360. As some of you may remember back in November rumours surfaced about a charge for the PSN. Since then BBT’s received an email questionnaire about “premium content” – which would include a possible charge.

Rough outlines of a charging scheme surfaced already, but now Peter Dille, in an interview with IGN, has said:

“Will we charge for it or why don’t we charge for it? It’s been our philosophy not to charge for it from launch up until now, but Kaz recently went on the record as saying that’s something we’re looking at. I can confirm that as well. That’s something that we’re actively thinking about. What’s the best way to approach that if we were to do that? You know, no announcements at this point in time, but it’s something we’re thinking about.”

If the rumours are to be believed the PSN will not charge for anything that you can already get for free. This includes online gaming and the web browser. But it will be very interesting to see what you will get for your money, and whether the “premium content” will be able to rival Xbox live.

Some of the content that might be included in paid-for PSN access include trials of all full games, and the ability to share these trials with friends. Call us hopeful, but it might also include access to Free PS classics, cross game chat (similar to the party system on the Xbox360) etc.

We’re keen to get the full run-down, but Sony’s keeping schtum for now, perhaps we’ll find out more at this year’s E3?

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