PlayStation 3 'Home' Test Service to Start

Yuri Kageyama - Associated Press

TOKYO - Sony's ballyhooed but often delayed online "Home" virtual world for the PlayStation 3 video game console began accepting 10,000 gamers Thursday to try a test service.

Applications for the "beta test" version of "Home" will be accepted through Aug. 11, and the test will begin later that month, Sony's game unit said in a release.

Sony has twice delayed the start of its real-time interactive computer-graphic world, which is expected to be similar to Linden Lab's "Second Life."

In the so-called "metaverse" in cyberspace, players manipulate digital images called "avatars" that represent themselves, engaging in relationships, social gatherings and businesses.

"Home" had been initially promised for last year, but it was delayed twice. No date was given, but Sony had promised a test service for last summer, with the service starting in the fall.

Sony Computer Entertainment spokeswoman Yoko Sakaki said those who wish to take part in the test service must have a Japanese PlayStation 3 online account.

"Players will be able to start with basic clothing and a home space," she said.

Similar "beta tests" will be offered in the U.S. and Europe in the next few months, Sony said.

Among the other areas in "Home" are places resembling an arcade, where avatars will be able to play Bandai Namco's "Namco Museum" games, including PacMan and other games.

Winning in the games will allow participants to accumulate points for adding clothes and furniture for their virtual home areas, Sakaki said.

Millions of people now enter "Second Life" on personal computers, moving avatars - or computer graphics images of themselves - in a virtual universe.

Major companies are also setting up shop in "Second Life," and analysts see potential for such virtual worlds as a communication tool and real-life business.

Earlier this month, Internet search leader Google Inc. unveiled a similar three-dimensional software service called "Lively."

Sony's PlayStation 3 hasn't scored the massive success of the Wii console from rival Nintendo Co., which makes Pokemon and Super Mario games.

Nintendo has now sold a cumulative 29.6 million Wii machines worldwide since its arrival in late 2006. PS3 sales have lagged at fewer than half of the Wii at 14.4 million. More than 19 million Xbox 360 consoles have been sold so far worldwide, according to Microsoft.

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Copyright 2012 by Associated Press