New digital purchases on PlayStation now require connection every 30 days

Recently purchased digital games on PlayStation Store have started to exhibit different behavior. Compras made after March 2026 undergo a license check that requires an internet connection every 30 days. The timer does not appear clearly on the PS5, but users confirm that it runs in the background.

The system affects both PS4 and PS5. Jogos acquired before March remains without the deadline. Quem is offline for long periods and may temporarily lose access until you reconnect the console to the PlayStation Network. The change came along with recent firmware updates.

License Verificação appears in details of new games

Usuários noticed the counter on the game information screen on PS4. The “Valid Period” field shows days remaining until the next check. On PS5, the interface does not reveal the timer, but reports indicate that the countdown happens equally.

Várias accounts tested the feature on consoles kept offline for over a month. The game simply stops opening until a connection restores the license. Ativar the console as primary does not bypass the requirement.

• Jogos purchased after March 2026 require checking every 30 days
• Previous Compras remain without visible timer
• PS4 shows counter on details screen
• PS5 tracks in the background without direct alert
• Conexão restores access immediately after the deadline

Sony has not yet released an official statement about the change. The company’s Suporte mentioned in conversations that the measure exists, but official details remain pending.

Reação from gamers and retailers highlights preference for physical media

GameStop published a quick note about the case. The network reinforced that physical games do not face the same limit. The message uses Sony’s own slogan to make fun of the situation.

Muitos players have expressed concerns about travel, areas without stable internet, or use in regions with unstable connections. Outros recalled old promises of full digital ownership. The discussion reignited old debates about DRM and offline access.

Especialistas in game preservation follows the topic closely. Accessibility-focused Contas tested several titles and confirmed the pattern in recent purchases. The volume of reports has grown in recent days on forums and social networks.

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Comparação with past DRM controversies in the console market

In 2013 Microsoft planned frequent online checks for Xbox One. The negative reaction was strong and led to a retreat in policy. Sony used the moment to highlight PlayStation’s advantages at the time.

Agora the scenario was reversed. The 30-day deadline is longer than previous proposals, but it still causes inconvenience. Diferente of subscriptions such as PlayStation Plus, which have always had limits, games purchased outright gain this extra restriction.

The case also raises questions about silent updates. April’s Firmware brought small improvements, but the package size and backend changes suggest larger adjustments to the licensing system.

What changes for those who play and possible next steps

Jogadores with a regular connection probably won’t notice a difference. The console automatically checks the license when starting online games. The problem arises in scenarios of prolonged offline use, such as traveling or living with limited internet.

Quem prefers physical media and avoids the timer altogether. Varejistas already highlights this in campaigns. Para who has a large digital library, the current advice is to maintain at least one monthly connection.

Sony received a request to position several vehicles. Atualizações on the topic should appear if the company clarifies whether it is a bug or an intentional feature. Enquanto this, the behavior only affects new purchases.