Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Sony Says PlayStation Only Needs One-Time Online Check for Digital Games

The clarification follows user reports of 30-day expiry notices after a March system update.

Overview

  • Sony told U.S. outlets that a single online check confirms a digital PS4 or PS5 game license and no recurring check-ins are required.
  • Players reported that, after the March update, some PS4 games showed a 30-day timer in the UI and some PS5 titles would not start offline once that period passed.
  • Reports have been uneven, with many accounts unaffected and games installed before the update often appearing to work as usual.
  • Possible explanations under discussion include a temporary license during the 14-day refund window or an unintended side effect from a recent security fix.
  • Sony did not explain why expiry dates appeared or when the one-time check occurs, leaving key details about timing and which installs are affected unresolved.