PlayStation Now Beta Invites Reportedly Being Sent Out

Sony is reportedly sending out invites for beta testing of its new PlayStation Now service. The beta test will allow “access to test PlayStation’s game streaming service before its full launch and the opportunity to provide your regular feedback to the PlayStation Now team,” but does not mention which titles will be available beyond a description of the service as providing “access to a library of popular PlayStation 3 titles.” Users who accept the invite will be given a beta voucher and further instructions within a few days’ time.

During the consumer electronics show in early January, Sony Computer Entertainment President and Group CEO Andrew House announced the new online service for its latest console. The service is Sony’s latest attempt at making the PlayStation and Sony network more accessible to gamers. The next-gen PS4 launched on Nov. 15. It has sold 4.2 million units worldwide by Dec. 28 and 1 million systems within the first 24 hours of its release, breaking new records for the multimedia conglomerate.

Sony plans to release PlayStation Now sometime during summer 2014 in the U.S., but the company wasn’t able to yet confirm a timeframe for the service’s European debut. “When it comes to broadband provision, Europe is a considerably more complex region, with a huge number of different providers and varying connection speeds from country to country. In short, we need a little more time to ensure a smooth and successful roll-out," Sony stated in a blog post earlier this month.

Users will have the option to buy chosen titles on an individual basis or pay for a subscription that will enable them to peruse a wide range of classic and new games. PlayStation Now’s repertoire will include older PS3 and PS2 games and upcoming PS4 titles. PlayStation Now will be available on the PlayStation 4, PS Vita, various tablets and some televisions, starting with Sony’s 2014 Bravia TV models. House feels that PlayStation Now will “introduce the world of PlayStation to a world of non-console owners, smartphones, TVs and other devices,” adding that you’ll eventually be able to “play your favorite PlayStation 3 games on a tablet.”

PlayStation Now’s online data will be hosted in the cloud, allowing players to take games and information with them. Players will have to log into their Sony Entertainment Network accounts on any compatible device to gain access to their purchased games and saved progress.

Will you subscribe to PlayStation Now? Were you chosen for the beta testing? Leave a comment below.