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Valleywag
Build a virtual world, and they will come. That's the mantra behind Sony's jump into Second Life-style social networking. Unable to match Microsoft's 7 million-strong online user base for the Xbox 360, Sony is hoping to lure users in by building its own 3D metaverse. Home is like a prettier, stripped down version of Second Life that will, Sony promises, be void of the latter's rampant lawlessness. At most, you might get away with posting a raunchy picture you've uploaded to your imaginary digital crib.
Leave aside the question of whether Sony will be able to attract anyone to such a nothing-goes environment. What may turn more users off is Sony's police-state enforcement of Home rules. Home director Peter Edward promises violators will be dealt with swiftly, and permanently:
Ultimately we know a user's details, we know machine details and we know where they live.Sony will have more than just users' account information — it will tie the user's online identity to its network connection and PlayStation 3 console.
Edwards explains that griefers who abuse Home will be exiled for good; your PS3's access to Home will be remotely disabled. Someone would have to move to a new house and buy a new PS3 in order to reenter the world. Well, that's one way to boost lagging console sales.
