Sony has confirmed that the only PS4 service behind a PlayStation Plus subscription paywall is the online multiplayer.
After Microsoft revealed that the Xbox One requires an Xbox Live Gold account for game DVR and other online features, Sony has reiterated which features will require a PlayStation Plus account.
PS4 gamers will only be required to subscribe to a PlayStation Plus account if they wish to participate in online gaming, all other features will remain available for free.
Services like Netflix, the game DVR and social media apps will still be useable to PS4 users without a PlayStation Plus account as it currently works on the PS3.
The Xbox One on the other hand will keep entertainment services locked behind an Xbox Live Gold subscription paywall.
Microsoft will only allow people with an Xbox Live Gold subscription to access game DVR, the new OneGuide custom TV guide, Skype and SmartMatch among other features on the Xbox One.
Recently, Sony explained the PlayStation Plus requirement for PS4 online multiplayer, saying it has ploughed a lot of resources into the online service to make it more valuable to gamers.
“The main pillar for the PS4 will be online play,” said Yoshida. “We’re developing many new ways to play and connect which requires a large investment of resources.”
The PlayStation Plus service costs £11.99 every 90 days or £39.99 per year. Anyone already subscribing to the service will see their membership automatically transfer to the PS4.
“Considering the cost, to try and keep such a service free and consequently lower the quality would be absurd. We decided if that’s the case, then it would be better to receive proper payment and continue to offer a good service.”
Sony has also confirmed that PlayStation Plus accounts cover all hardware platforms, meaning one account will suffice for a gamer’s PS Vita, PS3 and PS4 consoles.
PlayStation Plus offers subscribers access to the Instant Game Collection offering free downloads of new games, including DriveClub for the PS4.
Next, read our PS4 vs Xbox One comparison.
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Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
