Sony's PC gaming strategy shifts: No more mandatory PSN accounts for select titles.
Sony has announced a significant change to its PC gaming approach, eliminating the requirement to link a PlayStation Network (PSN) account for several of its PC titles. This shift, effective with the launch of Marvel's Spider-Man 2 on PC, addresses player concerns regarding the previous mandatory PSN account linking. Games like Marvel's Spider-Man 2, The Last of Us Part II Remastered, God of War Ragnarök, and Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered will no longer require PSN account connections. The impact on other single-player PC ports remains unclear.
However, Sony isn't abandoning its online ecosystem entirely. The company will offer in-game bonuses for players who do connect their PSN accounts. These incentives include early suit unlocks in Marvel's Spider-Man 2 and one-time resource bundles for games such as God of War Ragnarök. A full list of current PC incentives is provided below:
PlayStation PC In-Game Content Incentives:
- Marvel’s Spider-Man 2: Early unlock of the Spider-Man 2099 Black Suit and the Miles Morales 2099 Suit.
- God of War Ragnarök: Access to the Armor of the Black Bear set (previously only available in New Game+) and a resource bundle (500 Hacksilver and 250 XP).
- The Last of Us Part II Remastered: +50 points to activate bonus features, unlocking extras including Jordan’s Jacket for Ellie.
- Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered: Access to the Nora Valiant outfit.
Sony plans to collaborate with PlayStation Studios developers to introduce further benefits for PSN account holders on PC. The company also highlights that account linking provides access to features like trophy support and friend management.
The reception to Sony's PC releases has been mixed. While many welcome the availability of previously console-exclusive titles, the mandatory PSN account requirement drew significant criticism, particularly in regions where PSN is unavailable. This was notably highlighted by the temporary PSN requirement for Helldivers 2 on Steam, a decision Sony quickly reversed. The removal of this requirement for select titles represents a response to player feedback and a potential adjustment to Sony's PC gaming strategy.
