Sony brings reality-show 'The Tester' to PlayStation Network

In what is being seen as good news for PlayStation 3 (PS3) owners, Sony Corp. announced on Feb. 2 that it is launching its competition reality series The Tester on PlayStation Network on Feb. 18.

Sony’s strategy
The move will enable PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Portable fans to download the exclusive eight-episode reality series that pits 11 video game fans against each other for the chance to work as a game tester for Japanese tech giant’s American arm SCEA.

Sony says its latest move is part of the strategy to provide content beyond games on its immensely popular gaming console.

“With the addition of the original series “The Tester,” we further establish PlayStation Network as the preeminent destination for digital entertainment in the living room or in the palm of your hand,” said Peter Dille, SVP of marketing for PlayStation Network.

What’s the plan
In the series, 11 contestants from across the country will compete with one another to see who’s the best at testing out games.

Contestants will be followed over eight episodes as they battle it out in a series of challenges that involve oversized human hamster balls and paintball guns.

The winner will get a job as a real game tester at SCEA San Diego with a $5,000 signing bonus.

Sony’s press release detailing the move
In a press release Sony said the cast members of the show will compete “in grueling physical and mental challenges to win a position as a game tester at SCEA and a $5,000 signing bonus, all under the scrutiny of a panel of judges, including actor/comedian and diehard gamer Hal Sparks.”

“The Tester will follow contestants over eight episodes as emotions run high, alliances form and they battle with brain and brawn,” the press release added. “While donning giant slingshots, paintball guns, and human hamster balls, contestants will be put to the test in a series of elimination challenges shaped around the skills necessary to be a game tester, including dexterity, communication skills and mental prowess.”

The show’s 11 contestants range in age from 22- to 36-year-old, and include people from all walks of life--from a student, to a writer, to a cheerleading coach, to a paramedic, to a used car salesman.

When and where are free downloads available
Created by Sony, in collaboration with 51 Minds, “The Tester” will be hosted by model Meredith Molinari, and will feature special guest appearances by gaming industry professionals like David Jaffe, the mastermind of the “God of War” franchise.

New episodes of the show will be available on PlayStation Store for free each Thursday from Feb. 18 through April 8.