When it comes to online console gaming, it pretty much goes without saying that Sony's PlayStation Network has, for many years, ranked a distant second behind Microsoft's Xbox Live in terms of services offered, stability, and goofy-looking avatars. In fact, I would argue that the gap in quality between the two services is so great that the only solace for Sony drones like myself is that we didn't have to pay for it.
It may not be long, however, before that old order comes crashing down. In a recent business presentation, Sony indicated that they're pondering the introduction of a premium version of the PSN, which will require a paid subscription. While the current level of service (including Facebook integration, Netflix video streaming, and barely-functioning internet browser) will remain free, those who do choose pay the as yet undetermined monthly fee will have access to some (also as yet undetermined) special content.
What sort of mystical wonders await those who cough up more of their hard-earned currency to the Sony electronics mega-empire? PlayStation 2 and Dreamcast games for download? A version of PlayStation Home that doesn't suck? The secret to transcending corporeal form and becoming one with the very essence of the cosmos? Whatever the case may be, 2010 promises to be the year when the age-old balance of console networking will be altered forever, and if our civilization is strong enough to survive the great upheaval, it just might be the dawning of a brave new era of pressing buttons to shoot stuff.
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