Top Story: DC Universe Online coming soon to PSN

11.03.2011
This morning's Top Story is the news that Sony's PS3-based MMO will soon be getting a downloadable release via PSN.

According to a new post on the , will be getting a downloadable release via the PlayStation Store "soon." Sony hasn't given a firm release date as yet, but has revealed three pricing options for the game. The base game costs $59.99 and includes 30 days of play time, the same as the retail version. Monthly fees for the game after that are $14.99. Alternatively, those who are in it for the long haul can pay $77.99 for a 6-month subscription package or $134.99 for 12 months.

It's worth noting that with the 6 or 12 month packages that you still have to purchase a copy of the game -- so to play for 6 months you're actually paying $137.98, and for 12 months you'll be handing over $194.98. This is a saving over what you'd have to pay if you were paying monthly, however -- 6 and 12 months paid monthly would cost $89.94 and $179.98 respectively. You'd better be sure you want to spend that long in the DC Universe before you commit that amount of money, however.

The value of purchasing the title as a digital download is somewhat questionable. The game also costs $59.99 at retail, and certain retailers are already discounting it somewhat. , for example, is selling the PS3 version for $56.00. It's also interesting to note that the PC version's list price is $10 cheaper than the PS3 version.

The parity in pricing between the retail and digital editions of the PS3 version is, however, in keeping with the PC version, which costs the same both on store shelves and via digital outlets. With the of Mass Effect 2's day-and-date release on PSN, too, it's likely we'll be seeing more games getting simultaneous releases at retail and via digital services for the same price.

STAT CHECK -- 7:35AM PST, Mar. 10, 2011