Sony's recent policy adjustments regarding PC gaming have sparked a range of reactions among the gaming community. Previously, the requirement to tether to the PlayStation Network (PSN) even for single-player games on PC caused significant frustration, especially given that the service isn't available in all regions, leading to restricted sales of modern releases.
In response to the backlash, Sony has announced some modifications to their policy. While they haven't completely abandoned the idea of requiring PSN tethering on PC, they have introduced certain relaxations. Specifically, the following games will not necessitate a mandatory PSN connection:
- Marvel's Spider-Man 2
- God of War Ragnarok
- The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered
- Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered
For those who choose to connect their PSN account despite the optional nature, Sony is offering exclusive in-game rewards:
- Marvel's Spider-Man 2 - Early access to the "2099" line of costumes for both Peter Parker and Miles Morales.
- God of War Ragnarok - Immediate access to the Armor of the Black Bear set and the first "Lost Things" chest at the game's start, along with a set of resources.
- The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered - Bonus points to unlock additional features.
- Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered - Nora Valiant costume.
Addressing investor inquiries in November, Sony's COO Hiroki Totoki acknowledged the opposition to the PSN connection requirement. He emphasized its necessity for maintaining security and order, particularly in service-based games. However, Totoki did not clarify how single-player titles like Marvel's Spider-Man 2 or God of War Ragnarök benefit from this security measure.
As gaming evolves, so too must the policies that govern it. Sony's adjustments reflect an attempt to balance user satisfaction with their strategic goals, but the debate over PSN tethering on PC continues.
