Sony is officially rolling out PlayStation Vue streaming TV service. Compatible on PS3 and PS4, PlayStation Vue will be available to those in New York, Philadelphia, and Chicago with plans to grow to other major cities over the year. With lots of channel options and different pricing structures available, cord cutters might have a new champion on their side, all be it in currently limited areas. After the jump, full details on PlayStation Vue.

PlayStation Vue at its core is cable TV without the cable obligation. All that’s required to get the service beyond a PlayStation console is internet. Then through an app, think Netflix or Crackle, you’ll be able to access a host of of  channels, including live shows. Best of all, Sony will have a variety of options which allow you to customize your channel experience. So what Networks can we expect? They include:

• CBS
• Fox
• NBC
• Discovery
• Scripps
• Turner
• Viacom
• AMC

In total, Sony is giving you access to nearly 85 channels with networks like Viacom owning channels such as MTV and Comedy Central. Most notably absent from the list is ABC which also means no Disney channel or ESPN. As is with such things, the two companies could eventually come to an agreement which would then give cord cutters the most varied option yet. As far as packages go, Sony breaks them down into three categories:

• Access  – $49.99
• Core – $59.99
• Elite – $69.99

As you’d expect, each category as its own set of channels that come with them though judging from the list, ‘Access’ might just be enough. The category breakdowns are as follows:

With PlayStation Vue, beyond being able to scroll through live television, you’ll also have the ability to record shows at will. Thanks to the cloud based DVR implementation, you won’t have to worry about hard drive limits on your console or conflicting shows. Instead, you’ll be able to record as many shows as you’d like and have access to all episodes of the show that have aired in the last 28 days. Vue will also have the last three days of “popular programming” available for immediate streaming without the need to record. It’s unclear at this time how those shows will be selected. After it’s arrival in  New York, Philadelphia, and Chicago, PlayStation Vue will expand to other large US cities though Sony has yet to reveal which cities those will be. Vue will also be coming to iPad later this year with no announcement for Android at this time. It’s also worth noting that PlayStation Vue will require no longer commitment and is on a month-t0-month basis.

Discuss:

Do you find PlayStation Vue compelling?

[Via Sony]