PlayStation Announces PSN Account Optionality for Select PC Ports
Sony Interactive Entertainment has announced a significant change to its PC port strategy, making PlayStation Network (PSN) accounts optional for several PS5 titles released on PC. This decision follows previous criticism regarding mandatory PSN account linking.
PSN No Longer Required for Select Titles
Effective after the January 30, 2025 launch of Marvel's Spider-Man 2 on PC, players will no longer need a PSN account to access PC versions of several titles. This includes Marvel's Spider-Man 2, God of War Ragnarök, Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered, and the upcoming April 2025 release of The Last of Us Part II Remastered. However, it's important to note that this change doesn't apply to all PC ports; titles like Ghost of Tsushima Director's Cut and Until Dawn will still require PSN accounts.
Incentives for PSN Account Holders
While PSN accounts are no longer mandatory, Sony is incentivizing their use. Players who log in with their PSN accounts will receive benefits such as trophy support, friend management, and exclusive in-game bonuses:
- Marvel's Spider-Man 2: Early unlock of the Spider-Man 2099 Black Suit and Miles Morales 2099 Suit.
- God of War Ragnarök: Access to the Armor of the Black Bear set and a resource bundle (500 Hacksilver and 250 XP).
- The Last of Us Part II Remastered: 50 bonus points, and Ellie skin (Jordan's Jacket).
- Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered: Access to the Nora Valiant outfit.
Sony has indicated that further incentives are planned.
Responding to Player Backlash
This policy shift follows significant player backlash in 2024. The mandatory PSN account requirement for Helldivers 2 resulted in its delisting in numerous countries lacking PSN support. Similar criticism was directed at God of War Ragnarök's PC port. This latest announcement suggests Sony is adapting its approach to better cater to the PC gaming community. The limited geographical availability of PSN remains a concern for many players.
