French "equipages", by contrast, are close-knit groups where members pay a yearly subscription to attend every hunt.

BBC: How long will France hunt with hounds?

Typically users pay a yearly subscription to use Live OneCare.

BBC: NEWS | Technology | Windows 'fails' active virus test

The average monthly subscription fee in Europe is decreasing yearly and some ISPs in Germany and Sweden are offering free Internet access.

CNN: Net access to grow 250 percent in Europe

Of course, Sony will probably still have to follow the precedent it set on PS3 by offering multiplayer and video streaming without a subscription, thus putting even more pressure on developing robust, valuable offerings to justify yearly fees.

FORBES: Playstation Plus Could be a Vital Part of the PS4