Sony's recent announcement simplifies access to several PlayStation 5 titles ported to PC. Effective after the January 30, 2025 release of Marvel's Spider-Man 2 on PC, a PlayStation Network (PSN) account will no longer be mandatory for select games.
Sony Makes PSN Accounts Optional for Some PS5 PC Ports
Playing Without a PSN Account: Marvel's Spider-Man 2 and More
This change affects several popular titles, including Marvel's Spider-Man 2, God of War Ragnarök, Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered, and the upcoming PC release of The Last of Us Part II Remastered in April 2025. However, it's important to note that other single-player PC ports, such as Ghost of Tsushima Director's Cut and Until Dawn, will still require a PSN account.
PSN Account Incentives Remain
While PSN accounts are no longer required, Sony is incentivizing players who choose to log in. Benefits include trophy support, friend management, and exclusive in-game bonuses:
- 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 for Kratos (previously only available in New Game+) and a resource bundle (500 Hacksilver and 250 XP).
- The Last of Us Part II Remastered: 50 bonus points to unlock extras, including Ellie's Jordan's Jacket skin.
- Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered: Access to the Nora Valiant outfit.
Sony also indicates further incentives are planned, with PlayStation Studios continuing to develop additional benefits for PSN account holders.
Past Backlash and Regional Considerations
This policy shift follows past criticism. The mandatory PSN account requirement for Helldivers 2 on Steam, resulting in the game's delisting in numerous regions lacking PSN support, sparked significant negative feedback. Similar issues arose with God of War Ragnarök's PC port in 2024. The current PSN availability in approximately 70 countries highlights the limitations faced by players in unsupported regions.
