Sony is finally getting its very own xbox.com in the form of a web version of its until now PlayStation-bound Sony Entertainment Store. The service offers the same films, TV shows, and more importantly, full downloads of retail games on release day as the console store, but is still in testing and not officially announced yet.
“Regarding that – we are testing a new web store,” PlayStation blog wrote. “We look forward to announcing and launching to the PlayStation/Sony community shortly.” The web SEN Store also seems to be suffering from a curious omission at present, as purchases are not downloaded automatically to your console of choice even after being added to the download queue, the download still needs to be initiated manually. Otherwise, Sony’s web store looks just about ready for prime time.
Features of the New Web Store
The new web-based Sony Entertainment Store aims to bring a seamless experience to users who prefer browsing and purchasing content online. This move is seen as a strategic effort to compete directly with Microsoft’s Xbox.com, which has long provided a robust web platform for Xbox users. The web store will offer a wide range of content, including the latest films, TV shows, and full game downloads available on release day. This is a significant step forward for Sony, as it expands its digital ecosystem beyond the confines of the PlayStation console.
One of the most exciting features of the new web store is its user-friendly interface, designed to make browsing and purchasing content as straightforward as possible. Users can easily search for their favorite games, movies, and TV shows, read reviews, and make purchases with just a few clicks. The store also integrates with users’ existing PlayStation Network accounts, ensuring that all purchases are linked to their profiles.
Current Limitations and Future Improvements
Despite its promising features, the web-based Sony Entertainment Store is not without its limitations. As mentioned earlier, one of the most notable issues is the lack of automatic downloads. When users purchase content through the web store, they must manually initiate the download on their console. This extra step can be inconvenient, especially for those who are accustomed to the seamless experience offered by other digital platforms.
However, Sony has acknowledged this issue and is likely working on a solution. The company has a history of listening to user feedback and making necessary improvements, so it is reasonable to expect that automatic downloads will be implemented in the near future. Additionally, the web store is still in its testing phase, which means that further enhancements and features are likely to be introduced before the official launch.
Another area where the web store could improve is in its integration with other Sony services. For example, incorporating features from the PlayStation App could provide a more cohesive experience for users. This could include notifications for new content, personalized recommendations, and the ability to manage downloads remotely.
The introduction of the web-based Sony Entertainment Store marks a significant milestone for Sony and its digital ecosystem. While there are still some kinks to be worked out, the store shows great promise in providing a comprehensive and user-friendly platform for purchasing digital content. As Sony continues to refine and expand the service, it is likely to become an essential part of the PlayStation experience.
Source Eurogamer
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
