Requirements for PS3 Online Play

Ethernet

• Online gaming is useless without the "online" portion. In order to get your PS3 hooked up for online play, you need to already have an Internet provider and an ethernet modem or router to connect to the PS3. You'll also need an ethernet cable long enough to hook your PS3 to your modem or router. The modem will be provided to you by your Internet service provider, while the router and the cable you will need to purchase and set up yourself.

A PSN Account

• Much like Xbox Live, the PlayStation Network requires a unique I.D. and account for each of its members. You will need to start up your PS3 and go into the "PlayStation Network" menu. From there, you will create a new account and fill out your personal information including name, date of birth and street address. You will also be prompted to create an I.D.--which essentially the PS3 version of Xbox Live's gamertag--before you can activate your account. It is important to note that there are two types of accounts available; master accounts and sub accounts. Master accounts are just what they sound like, accounts on which no restrictions are imposed. Sub accounts are subject to master accounts, and the master accounts they are attached to have authority to impose restrictions--such as which games can and cannot be played, and limited chatroom and video restrictions--on the sub accounts. These are primarily used by parents to regulate what their children are exposed to.

Online-Compatible Game

• The other key component of "online gaming" is the game. Most multiplayer games these days--especially first person shooter games such as the "Call of Duty" series--come with options to play multiplayer online. The methods of connecting to multiplayer will vary from game to game, but typically there is an option under the Multiplayer menu that will allow the player to connect to game servers where he can play with others who own the game. While the most common types of games you will find that support online play are retail games, there are also several demos and small games available for download on the PlayStation Network that may also include online multiplayer support.