Aug 23, 2011
When it first launched on December 11, 2008, PS Home wasn’t much… but it was definitely an interesting concept. An virtual forum for gamers to gather, meet and game. Its come a long way and, love it or hate it, you can’t deny its still an ever evolving and interesting concept.
I’ve always defended Home, myself. I see it as a great evolution to the online gaming community. Something that takes a little bit of what Nintendo tried to do, a little bit of what Microsoft tried to do and takes it a step further. I love being able to pop into Home with a group of friends and game launch into Street Fighter IV, visit a new area and play some free games, meet new people into the games I’m into and even virtually attend such things as E3 and EVO 2011.
This Fall, however, Sony is promising a huge overhaul to the Home scene including a new hub area and, as they put it, “districts” that are divided up by game genres. And, according to the Home’s Director, Jack Buser, they’re doing away with the Central Plaza, Mall, etc. entirely to make room for this remodeling project.
Pictured below will be the hub. Jack Buser comments that it will have a futuristic feel to it that is very clean looking and easy to navigate. There will be an activity board to keep you up to date on the goings-on around the Home community, games and many other things to partake in before heading to other districts.
The Action District, pictured below, will have a more gritty feel and atmosphere to it with its sprawling urban area. They say they’re going for a more FPS feel to it and will be a great place to gather with other action fans into shooters, horrors and other fast paced thrill rides.
Also, the Sportswalk will feature quote “up-to-the-minute major league scores and highlights” as well as plenty of games to tickle your fancy as a sports fan.
There will also be an Adventure District for you brave explorers… or at least games who enjoy exploring from the comfort of your couch. It will be set within a lush, beachfront jungle and feature tons of games.
Finally, there’s the Pier Park. This district features an amusement park, carnival and many other things with outdoor arcade games, featuring a waterfront boarkwalk and a party area that links you to many indie developers and their games. Also, you ARE able to ride the ferris wheel.
The core experience of Home is set to change Fall 2011. I’m not crazy about Home, but I have to say, this update looks superb.
Source: PlayStation Blog