The Sony PlayStation 3 gaming console, or PS3 as it is commonly referred to, along with the PlayStation Portable, or PSP, Sony's handheld gaming device, offer features well beyond individual gaming and movie watching through the PlayStation Network. The PlayStation Network is an online service which opens the systems to features like multiplayer game playing, chat, and movie downloading just to name a few. To learn more about the features offered on these systems, visit: PS3 Features and
PSP Features.
Parental Controls
The PlayStation 3 (PS3) and the PlayStation Portable (PSP) come with parental controls options to help parents establish an age-appropriate gaming, communication, and multimedia experience for their children
PlayStation 3 (PS3)
Parents should be aware of three separate parental control settings:
1. Parental Controls for the PS3 Entertainment System: Parents can determine the age-appropriate level of games and movies that can be played locally, without use of the PlayStation Network. Game and movie settings are based on number-based levels so, when determining the appropriate setting for your children, play close attention to the level you select as they do not directly correspond to ratings established by the Entertainment Software Ratings Board or the Motion Picture Association of America.
2. Parental Controls for the PS3 Internet Browser: Parents can block access to the Internet browser, but it is an all or nothing option. There is no filter option and individual Web sites cannot be blocked.
3. Parental Controls for the PlayStation Network: Parents can create a Master (18+) account and then setup sub accounts for their children. Parental control settings can be established for each sub account to control access to content based on age, restrict audio and video chat capabilities (sub accounts can still send and receive text messages), and set monthly spending limits at the PlayStation store for the purchase of games, game add-ons, and movies.
These are great links to learn more about the PS3's parental control features:
PS3 Parental Controls
Knowledge Center | Support | Playstation.com
PlayStation Portable (PSP)
The PSP's parental controls are very similar to those of the PS3. Parents can determine the appropriate level of game or video content to be played on the device. Additionally, the PSP also offers the same browser and network controls. To learn more visit: PSP Parental Controls.
