Sony Corp. has finally released pricing details about its new subscription gaming platform, PlayStation Now. Launching in Canada and the United States on January 13, the all-you-can-game service offers either a monthly or bundled rate that will allow players try games via online streaming without having to download or buy physical discs.
PlayStation Now is similar to such all-you-can-watch video services like Netflix, Shomi or CraveTV, or the all-you-can-read Marvel Unlimited comic book service. Pay a fee, consume your media, you don't own it but you are able to enjoy it in the time provided. Sony is kicking off the launch with a seven-day free trial, after that the price is $19.99 a month or $44.99 for three months.
Gamers can play through a library of more an 100 PS3 games, but at launch only owners of the newer PlayStation 4 console will be able to access the service. On the one hand, PS4 users may need it more since the console is not backwards compatible with PS3 game discs. On the other hand, no details were given on when it will roll out to other devices.
Some of the details, and a promotional video, were published on Sony's PlayStation blog. Available titles include indie darlings such as Spelunky and Papo & Yo; Sony exclusives such as God of War and Uncharted; as well as such third-party hits as Saints Row, Bioshock Infinite and Dead Island.
Just keep an eye on your data cap if you're playing in Canada.