PlayStation Now is the first-time a gaming console manufacturer has delivered a streaming service to a console. The service allows PlayStation gamers to access an expanding library of PS3 games via their PlayStation 4 system. Up until today, PlayStation Now was in a private beta for select customers. Starting later today, the service will now be in Open Beta for all customers in the United States and Canada.
PlayStation Now titles will be part of the PlayStation Store. Gamers will be able to stream over 100 titles at various prices and time durations. Times currently are 7 days, 30 days, 90 days or a 4 hour rental.
In order to use the PlayStation Now service, you must have a reliable broadband connection as it will be necessary for visual and gameplay quality. Games accessed through PlayStation Now will come with cloud saves, trophies, friend lists, and leaderboards. If the game has a multiplayer aspect, you can play online with other PlayStation gamers regardless if they are using the PS Now service or own the disc.
PlayStation is soliciting feedback for the service, especially in the early days, as there is still work to be done with the service. Look for deals around 4-hour rentals to emerge soon. These deals will be in the range of $1.99 for four hours. Also, the team at PlayStation is strongly considering a subscription model but they are not ready to release any further details around this topic.
For further information on how the PlayStation Now service works, please watch the above video.
Source: PlayStation Blog