5. Gaming As A Social Network
The idea of 'Sharing' is a huge theme for the PS4 and console gaming is now the next platform for a 'Social Network'. The idea that the PS4 can be a hub for a kind of social network of gaming is very interesting. Social Networks have exploded over the last decade so it makes sense that Sony would want to buy into the hype. The new Dualshock 4 prototype sees the fabled 'START' and 'SELECT' buttons removed in favour of two new additions. 'SHARE' on the left and 'OPTIONS' on the right. The PS3 took online gaming to the masses, because it was free and because it was easy. Now Sony want gamers to share the single player experience with one another. Instead of waiting for that water-cooler moment at work or at school, gamers can now share videos of their play throughs as well as live streams to their friends. At one point it was suggested that a friend could take over your game, remotely , and complete a level or sequence you were stuck on. It seems that Sony are at the forefront of the social gaming experience. The PlayStation Network will still allow for anonymity in gaming, but now players will also be able to create their own personal profile with their real name for their friends to see and interact with.