The PlayStation gaming community is in an uproar following reports of a new digital rights management (DRM) policy that could require online access every 30 days. Títulos purchased from March 2026 would be subject to this periodic verification, temporarily blocking access if the console remains offline beyond the deadline.
Mudança affects recent PlayStation purchases Store
Segundo information released by users, digital games purchased from March began to display an “expiration period” in the console’s library. The system would work as follows: if the PS4 or PS5 does not connect to the internet within 30 days, the license expires and prevents the game from starting until the connection is reestablished.
Modder Lance McDonald, known for his changes to Bloodborne, amplified the discussion by commenting on the matter on social media. The information quickly gained traction among streamers and content creators, generating widespread concern about the future of access to digital games on the platform.
A customer support service confirmed that this was not a technical error. Conforme reported, the requirement would be a rule applicable to the most recent purchases, affecting PS4 and PS5 without distinction. Jogos purchased before March 2026 would remain accessible normally, even without a connection.
Como runs the new check
- 30-day Prazo applied to all digital purchases post-March 2026
- Console offline beyond the deadline results in temporary access blocking
- Reconexão to the internet restores the license automatically
- Configuração of “main console” does not eliminate the requirement
- Old Títulos are not affected by the policy
The restriction would work regardless of which console is set as primary on the account. Isso means that even users with a traditional primary console setup would need to check the connection periodically to maintain access to purchased games.
Xbox One’s controversial Precedente generates comparisons
The reaction was immediate and critical. Jogadores compared the measure to the controversial DRM policy that Microsoft presented during the launch of Xbox One in 2013. At the time, the requirement for constant online verification generated such rejection that Microsoft abandoned the idea after intense community pressure.
The irony does not go unnoticed: Sony itself led public criticism against Microsoft for this measure, using offline freedom as PlayStation’s competitive advantage. Agora, approximately 13 years later, may be implementing a similar system. Muitos players point out the contradiction on social media, rescuing old videos and communications where Sony attacked its rival’s position.
Posição’s official Sony has not yet been released
The company has not made an official statement on the matter so far. Information circulates mainly from reports from users in the community and customer support services. Esse silence increases uncertainty about whether the policy will actually be adopted on a large scale or whether it merely represents a regional test.
Analistas marketers point out that implementation on a global scale would depend on clear communication from Sony. An official position should clarify timelines, exceptions, and possible alignment with other digital platforms. Enquanto this, distrust in the community grows.
The situation reflects growing tension between producers and consumers over digital property models. Jogadores argue that buying a game should mean permanent ownership, while companies invest in verification systems to protect copyrights. PlayStation’s 30-day DRM could fuel this debate in the coming months.