Sony recently released some of its exclusive titles to PC platforms like Steam and the Epic Games Store. This is great news for players who don’t have a PlayStation console but still want to play Sony titles like Ghost of Tsushima and Horizon Zero Dawn. However, due to a controversial requirement from Sony, not all players may be able to enjoy the multiplayer modes.
Sony Requires a PSN Account for Some PC Titles
Screenshot by Marissa Zupancic — no attribution
Some Sony games available for PC require a PlayStation Network (PSN) account, particularly for online multiplayer features. A PSN account is your free online identity for accessing Sony’s PlayStation ecosystem, including PlayStation consoles and the PlayStation Store. It lets you connect with friends, download games and DLC, and track your gaming progress.
Traditionally, PSN accounts have been linked to Sony’s PlayStation consoles. However, with the recent push of some PlayStation titles to PC, Sony has also introduced the requirement for a PSN account to play online multiplayer in certain PC games.
Sony’s websitelists its full catalog of PC games. Titles include thewildly successful Helldivers 2, iconic series like The Last of Us Part I, and family-friendly games like Sackboy: A Big Adventure. Notably, not all of Sony’s titles are currently available on PC platforms, but the company intends to port other games, like God of War Ragnarök, in the near future.
Why Are PlayStation Network Accounts Problematic?
Sony’s requirement for a PSN account has caused some controversy, as PC gamers are not accustomed to needing a console-specific account to play PC games online. However, the main issue with the requirement for a PSN account arises in regions where PSN is unavailable.
Currently, PSN support is limited to roughly 70 countries, leaving out a significant portion of the world, particularly in Africa, the Middle East, and various islands. This means gamers in these regions who purchase a Sony PC title with online multiplayer may be entirely locked out of that functionality due to their geographical location.
It’s important to check whether Sony offers PSN in your country before you buy a Sony PC title, as some titles require an account to play multiplayer game modes. This issue rocketed into the spotlight following Sony removing the mandatory PSN linking requirement from Helldivers 2 after community backlash.
How to Check if a Sony Game Requires a PlayStation Network Account
If you’re wondering whether a PlayStation game requires a PSN account, you can check the requirements onSony’s website. For example, if you click on Ghost of Tsushima, a small text explains that you must have a PSN account to play the online multiplayer mode.
The Steam page for Ghost of Tsushima also notes the PSN requirement for online play.
Additionally, the bottom of the Predator Hunting Grounds page explains that players must have a PSN account to play online.
By considering the PSN requirement, you can avoid surprises and ensure a smooth purchase of your next Sony PC game. Happy gaming!
