PSN Accounts for Playstation's PC Ports No Longer Required (For Some Games)

Sony Announces Optional PSN Accounts for Select PC Game Ports

Sony Interactive Entertainment has announced a significant change to its PC port strategy, making PlayStation Network (PSN) accounts optional for several PlayStation 5 titles released on PC. This decision, effective after the January 30, 2025 launch of Marvel's Spider-Man 2 on PC, addresses previous player concerns regarding mandatory PSN account linking.

Games Affected:

This change impacts several high-profile titles, including:

• Marvel's Spider-Man 2
• God of War Ragnarök
• Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered
• The Last of Us Part II Remastered (releasing April 2025)

It's important to note that other PC ports, such as Ghost of Tsushima Director's Cut and Until Dawn, will continue to require PSN accounts.

Incentives for PSN Account Holders:

While PSN accounts are no longer mandatory, Sony is offering incentives for players who choose to link their accounts:

• Trophies and Friend Management: Access to PlayStation's trophy system and friend lists.
• In-Game Bonuses: Exclusive content for each game:
  • Marvel's Spider-Man 2: Early unlock of Spider-Man 2099 Black Suit and Miles Morales 2099 Suit.
  • God of War Ragnarök: Armor of the Black Bear set and a resource bundle.
  • The Last of Us Part II Remastered: 50 bonus points and Ellie skin (Jordan's Jacket).
  • Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered: Nora Valiant outfit.

Sony indicates that further incentives may be added in the future.

Addressing Past Backlash:

This policy shift follows criticism received by Sony in 2024 for requiring PSN accounts for games like Helldivers 2, leading to its delisting in numerous regions lacking PSN support. Similar negative feedback surrounded the PC port of God of War Ragnarök. The limited global availability of PSN (approximately 70 countries) has been a major source of player frustration.

This move by Sony demonstrates a responsiveness to player feedback and a potential shift towards a more inclusive approach to PC gaming. The optional PSN account system offers players a choice while still providing rewards for those utilizing the PlayStation ecosystem.