GameStop Is Trying To Capitalize On PS5’s Reported New Online Requirement

Sony has quietly introduced a 30-day online license verification requirement for digital games purchased on PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 consoles, beginning with titles acquired after March 2026. The feature, first identified in the version 13.20 console update, requires players to connect to the internet every 30 days to renew the license on recently purchased digital titles. Those who fail to reconnect within this window will lose access to their games until the license is renewed through an online connection.

The change has prompted confusion and concern among players, as Sony has not made an official announcement regarding the new requirement. Customer support statements circulating on social media have sent mixed signals about whether this is an intentional feature or an unintended consequence of the update. However, a credible theory from game preservation sources suggests the DRM may be temporary, designed to combat potential loopholes in the purchasing system. According to this explanation, games issued with a temporary 30-day offline license would transition to a permanent license once players connect to PlayStation Network within 14 days of purchase.

The implementation has drawn comparisons to the controversial 2013 Xbox One DRM policy, which required frequent online check-ins—a decision Microsoft faced significant backlash for at the time. Players have expressed concern that Sony may be adopting similar practices, particularly given the lack of transparent communication about the feature’s purpose and scope. As of now, Sony has provided no official clarification on the requirement’s purpose or whether it will remain in place permanently.

GameStop Is Trying To Capitalize On PS5’s Reported New Online Requirement

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