Just when we thought all the relevant information to be had from GDC was out in the open, along comes this tidbit that could further open the door for budding developers in our mist. Untapped talent just waiting to be discovered? This is for you. According to Sony’s senior developer relations account manager Chris Eden, making games for the PlayStation Network is not only reasonably affordable at $1200 for the debug PS3 kit (including the freebie PhyreEngine) — but it comes with the satisfaction of knowing that Sony is going to back you up with their own promotional muscle, should your project get the green light. But don’t let that scare you into thinking that you’ve sold your soul to the devil for a quick buck, As Eden is quick to point out that your IP is still very much your IP:
“With the PlayStation Network, a lot of the land is still up for grabs. Sony wants to manage, but not own the platform. We don’t set or recommend prices, or have price slots. Sony just acts as a digital reseller, you’re free to set your own prices.”
So what about that support mentioned above? For starters, Sony marketers are willing to toss a few bones your way in the form of weekly updates via the PlayStation Blog/PlayStation.com, as well as in-store banner ads, those weekly/monthly emails that Sony sends us all, shout-outs through the PS3’s browser home page, and even the mighty XMB ticker, itself.
With an audience of around 2.8 million — that increases by around 100,000 each week — there will be plenty of eyes on your prize. Do us all a favor, and create that next killer IP that Sony’s we’ve been waiting for. We soooo need to see more awe-inspiring games on the PlayStation Network. As it stands right now, Live is kicking ass, taking names, and enjoying a sizeable chunk of our discretionary income. Wouldn’t it be nice to spread that money around some more? Nothing against Microsoft, but variety is the spice of life.
[Via Gamasutra — Thanks, Justin!]
