PlayStation DRM Now Requires Monthly Online Check-Ins: What Gamers Need to Know

PlayStation’s New DRM Policy Resurrects Controversial Online Requirements

Gamers who recall the backlash against Microsoft’s Xbox One launch in 2013 will recognize the uproar over mandatory online connectivity. While the sentiment for preserving offline play has persisted, Sony’s latest Digital Rights Management (DRM) solution appears to be pushing the industry further toward always-online requirements.

Under this new policy, PlayStation users must connect to the internet at least once every 30 days to avoid losing their game licenses. Failure to comply will disable the license, preventing games from launching in offline mode until the license is reactivated by reconnecting to the internet.

This requirement has reportedly been in place for some time, primarily affecting PlayStation 4 users. However, developer Lance McDonald suggests that every new digital purchase on both PS4 and PS5 may now be subject to this rule. As he stated:

"Every digital game you buy now requires an online check-in every 30 days."

How Does This PlayStation DRM Work?

DRM systems requiring periodic online validation are not new. For example, Denuvo, a widely used DRM solution in mainstream gaming, often demands online revalidation to issue a new token for offline play. These tokens typically expire after a few weeks, necessitating periodic reconnection.

While Sony’s new policy may operate similarly, there’s also speculation that it could be an unintended bug. However, if intentional, this move could signal a broader shift toward more invasive DRM measures in the future.

What This Means for PlayStation Gamers

Players who prefer offline gaming may face growing limitations as Sony’s DRM policy becomes more entrenched. The requirement to check in every 30 days could disrupt the gaming experience, especially for those with unreliable internet access or in regions with limited connectivity.

The policy’s rollout raises questions about Sony’s long-term strategy for digital ownership and offline play. As DRM becomes more aggressive, gamers may need to adapt to a landscape where constant connectivity is the norm.