Today, SCEJ released the official website for PS Home, along with new screenshots and a large amount of information. PS Home is Sony's 3D online community developed for the PS3 to compete with similar features on Xbox 360 and Wii, and even rival PC online games like "Second Life." Compared to "Second Life" and Xbox Live, PS Home offers richer content, a more user-friendly experience, easier login and use, and more complete functionality utilizing the technology and capabilities of the PS3.
PS Home builds a fully 3D world where users can wander around, communicate with others, watch HD videos, play some mini-games, and even decorate their personal space with achievement trophies earned in games.
The software will be available for free download via the network, and after installation, an independent icon will appear in the XMB system. By running the program, players can access various services such as online gaming, online shopping, and communication with other players. Home integrates all these needs of the player together.
The world of Home is colorful, with a bright color palette that gives a warm and natural feel.
Players will have their own avatar in Home, similar to the Mii characters in Wii. However, unlike Mii, the virtual avatars (character customization) in Home will be much more diverse. Players can set up different parts such as the head, torso, legs, feet, and accessories. The materials provided in the game are extremely rich, allowing each player to create a unique image. Most of these materials are offered for free, but some require completing specific PS3 games to obtain. Sony also mentioned that future avatars will have better facial designs.
After creating their character, the first stop for players will be the Central Lounge in Home, where they can communicate with others through a keyboard or Bluetooth phone. Virtual avatars can perform actions such as clapping. The walls around the lounge will serve as advertising boards for Sony or other manufacturers, where players can see various PS3 game promotional posters.
Players will have their own residence (apartment space) within the community, which is essentially the "home" in Home. From house size, furniture arrangement to wallpaper decoration, everything can be customized freely by the players. Players can download different items for their homes via the PSN network, and many of these items are not just for show but can actually be used. For example, picture frames can display photos stored in the player's console; the virtual Sony Bravia TV can indeed play videos, and the volume increases as the virtual character gets closer to the TV.
Players can communicate with other players in various forms such as text, voice, or video within their home, somewhat similar to a personal blog.