IGN Entertainment has today confirmed that its GameSpy technology is to once again provide a Sony console with online functionality. Having already supplied such functions for both PlayStation2 and PSP, the company is to help power the online platform on PlayStation3 and in the process become part of SCEI's Tools & Middleware License Program for the console.

"We are proud to continue to be a valued SCEI's tools and middleware licensee and look forward to accelerating the 'PLAYSTATION3' market success by speeding creation of terrific online titles," said Jamie Berger, Vice President and General Manager of IGN Publisher Services. "Since developers are already familiar with our technology and interfaces, including it in their titles should be quick, giving them more time to refine gameplay and take the best possible advantage of the 'PLAYSTATION(R)3' platform."

The GameSpy technology will also allow for the implementation of online persistence, which has already been seen in North America in Majesco's PSP title Infected, and will also allow developers to create other features including reward systems.

The news comes just hours after Sony's President of Worldwide Studios, Phil Harrison, made his keynote speech at this year's Game Developer's Conference in San Jose, California.

We'll have more news shortly...