PlayStation Home director Jack Buser says starting at the end of this month, a beta test for the service will be available. Gamers are invited to try out Home, though it's still under construction.

To be added to the beta program, gamers must download a new Home theme (pictured) slated for release today on the PlayStation Network. Sony will thin the herd of applicants "using a variety of criteria including activity on the PlayStation Network..." Sony Computer Entertainment Europe is likewise expanding its closed beta testing of the Home service, but it will choose gamers based solely on how "active" they've been on PSN and the PlayStation Store.

Home is Sony's attempt to set up a virtual online community consisting of PS3 users. Within the world of Home, players will be able to establish and decorate their own living spaces, chat, watch movies and play games together, and be exposed to a wealth of paid advertisements. Originally announced in March of 2007, Home was initially slated to launch that fall. An open beta test is expected to begin later this year.

Marooned Chic via gamespot.com »