Which PlayStation Network Can I Use?
With multiple PlayStation networks available, it can be confusing to determine which one is right for you. In this article, we’ll break down the different PlayStation networks and help you decide which one suits your gaming needs.
PlayStation Network (PSN)
The original PlayStation Network, popularly known as PSN, is the basic online gaming service offered by Sony. It allows users to play multiplayer games online, download free games and demos, and connect with friends. PSN is free to sign up for and is available to all PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, and PlayStation Vita users.
PlayStation Plus (PS Plus)
PlayStation Plus is a premium subscription service offered by Sony that provides additional benefits over the basic PSN. For a monthly or annual fee, PS Plus subscribers get access to:
- Online multiplayer gaming
- Exclusive discounts on games and DLC (downloadable content)
- Free games each month, known as “Instant Game Collection”
- Cloud game saves and online storage
- Access to online tournaments and special events
PS Plus is available for PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, and PlayStation Vita, and costs \(9.99 per month or \)59.99 per year.
PlayStation Vue
PlayStation Vue is a cloud-based TV service that allows users to stream live TV and on-demand content to their console or mobile device. It’s available as a standalone service, separate from PSN and PS Plus. PlayStation Vue offers a range of channel packs and pricing plans, with costs starting at $49.99 per month.
PlayStation Now (PS Now)
PlayStation Now is a game streaming service that allows users to play a range of PlayStation games on their PC or PlayStation 4 console, without the need for a physical copy of the game. PS Now uses cloud technology to stream games instantly, without the need for downloads or installations. The service costs \(9.99 per month or \)14.99 per month for a more advanced plan.
PlayStation Community Forum
The PlayStation Community Forum is an online discussion board where PlayStation users can connect with each other, share tips and advice, and participate in online events. While not a separate network in itself, the forum is a valuable resource for users who want to interact with other gamers and get the most out of their PlayStation experience.
Which PlayStation Network is Right for You?
So, which PlayStation network should you use? It ultimately depends on your gaming needs and preferences. Here are a few questions to help you decide:
- Are you a casual gamer who just wants to play online multiplayer games with friends? PSN might be the way to go.
- Do you want access to exclusive discounts, free games, and online storage? PS Plus might be the better option.
- Do you want to stream live TV and on-demand content? PlayStation Vue is the way to go.
- Do you want to play a range of PlayStation games without the need for a physical copy? PS Now is the service for you.
Ultimately, you can use multiple PlayStation networks to enhance your gaming experience. For example, you could use PSN for online multiplayer gaming, PS Plus for exclusive discounts and free games, and PS Now for streaming a range of games.
