Sony Interactive Entertainment LLC (SIE) is once again embroiled in controversy. Following criticism over price hikes for PlayStation 5 and PS Portal hardware, reports are now circulating about the introduction of a "30-day license verification" mechanism for digital games. This system would prevent players from accessing purchased games if they haven't connected online for an extended period, quickly drawing significant community attention and dissatisfaction.
According to foreign media reports, multiple PlayStation users on both PS5 and PS4 platforms have observed new license restrictions on some digital games. This mechanism reportedly requires players to log into their account or connect their console to the internet at least once every 30 days. Failure to do so would result in the system temporarily revoking the game license, preventing the game from launching until re-verification through an online connection.
Current information suggests this measure only affects games purchased after a system update in March 2026, with previously acquired digital content seemingly unaffected for now. However, this design still causes unease among players, with many viewing it as a new form of Digital Rights Management (DRM) restriction that diminishes their actual control over purchased content.
Discussions around this issue have quickly drawn parallels to Microsoft's controversial policy when the Xbox One launched in 2013. That system, which required players to connect online every 24 hours, faced strong backlash and ultimately forced the company to retract the measure. If Sony proceeds in a similar direction, it risks a repeat of that past controversy.
Some players have already inquired with official customer service, and based on the responses, it is speculated that this mechanism is not a system error but rather a planned feature. However, as of now, Sony has not issued an official statement, leading to further speculation.
via： TechRadar