Sony Computer Entertainment Japan has unveiled an upcoming PSP service that will let users invite friends into virtual rooms to "enjoy real time communication”.

Likened to PS3 virtual world Home, the community service lets users design 3D avatars and "my room" spaces. They can also post blogs, gather together, chat and play “mini games”.

While it will be free to download and use, “additional paid services and content will become available”.

Players will be able to launch PlayStation Room directly from the PlayStation Network section of the XMB when it’s introduced in a firmware update this winter.

Prior to its official release, SCEJ says it will run a closed beta test to tweak the service.

All PSP models will support PlayStation Room.

Picture: Joystick