(We are on the new servers now and themes, artwork, and features will be restored this week).
While I thought the idea was interesting, I just did not see the need for a streaming device especially when the consoles themselves offer solid streaming of Netflix, Hulu, and the ability to download shows and movies in and of themselves.
Then I decided to really look at what was being offered and noted that the unit offers the ability to stream my games and content from my PS 4 in another room. Being able to play games and watch shows in the Master Bedroom without the need of a second PS 4 machine is of great appeal to me, especially if I am able to play multiplayer games on it by allowing one person to play on the console downstairs and another to play via the virtual device.
The $99.99 retail price is affordable enough to many and it is much cheaper than buying a second console and with the ability to use either the Dualshock 3 or 4 controllers, the pending Playstation Now will also play a factor for fans looking to play classic games.
Like with Playstation Now much of the success I believe will depend on the cost of renting and buying the games and movies as there are several options available for consumers so Sony needs to have a solid hook to entice people to get their entertainment content through them.
I have owned a PS 2, 3, and 4, and I can honestly say that I have never purchased a film or show from Sony as I have used Netflix or Disc Media for our movie and television viewing over there systems.
The service will not be available in all areas come this Fall but the requirement of a 5Mbps connection is not unreasonable for many consumers to meet.
The success or failure of the device remains to be seen as consumers will likely wait to see how much Playstation Now costs but the virtual streaming is a huge selling point that come the Holiday Shopping Season could give Sony a big boost over Microsoft.
I recently wrote how Microsoft will have Sunset Overdrive and The Master Chief Collection as their big holiday exclusives while Sony will mainly have Little Big Planet 3. Knowing that on paper this could give the edge to Microsoft as far as undecided consumers, the Playstation TV device could be a game changer especially if Sony offers a bundle as essentially they could sell the device as the benefits of two PS 4 systems for essentially half the price.
Time will tell, but for now Playstation TV is an interesting idea that many bear fruits not just now but down the road for Sony.
