Sony's PlayStation Network (PSN) Account Policy Shift for PC Ports
Sony has revised its PSN account requirements for select PlayStation 5 games ported to PC, offering both optional access and incentives for linked accounts. This change, effective after the January 30, 2025 release of Marvel's Spider-Man 2 on PC, impacts several titles.
PSN Accounts Now Optional for Some PC Ports
Players can now enjoy PC versions of Marvel's Spider-Man 2, God of War Ragnarök, Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered, and the upcoming The Last of Us Part II Remastered (April 2025) without a PSN account. However, titles like Ghost of Tsushima Director's Cut and Until Dawn still mandate PSN account linking.
Incentives for PSN Account Holders
Maintaining a PSN account unlocks several benefits:
- Trophies and Friend Management: Access standard PSN social features.
- In-Game Bonuses: Exclusive content for specific games:
- Marvel's Spider-Man 2: Spider-Man 2099 Black Suit and Miles Morales 2099 Suit.
- God of War Ragnarök: Armor of the Black Bear set and resource bundle.
- The Last of Us Part II Remastered: 50 bonus points and Ellie skin.
- Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered: Nora Valiant outfit.
Sony indicates further incentives are planned.
Addressing Past Backlash
This policy shift follows criticism regarding previous mandates. The requirement for a PSN account in Helldivers 2 led to its delisting in numerous regions lacking PSN support. Similar negative feedback surrounded God of War Ragnarök's PC port. Sony's decision to make PSN accounts optional for some titles reflects a response to player concerns about accessibility and data privacy. The limited geographical availability of PSN (approximately 70+ countries) remains a point of contention.
