A recent update regarding digital game distribution for current PlayStation consoles revealed Sony implemented a restrictive DRM (Digital Rights Management) policy requiring users to connect to the internet within 30 days days before unlocking access to certain digital games.
These changes first appeared as part of system update 26.03-13.20.00 for PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5, ostensibly released to add emojis and improve social features, which also included a DRM policy that locked purchased digital content from use after 30 days of offline activity.
The update covers any digital game purchases made after the April 23 update. Any games bought before the update aren’t currently affected by the new policy, making them fully playable without internet connection.
An investigation by Eurogamer has indicated that completing an automated ‘one-time’ online check 15 days after purchase converts the limited offline license into an indefinite license, allowing for both online and offline play, one day after the standard 14-day refund window.
However, Sony has recently addressed these concerns in a statement to GameSpot, saying:
“Players can continue to access and play their purchased games as usual. A one-time online check is required to confirm the game’s license, after which no further check-ins are required.“
While this issue may have originally seemed critical, it is believed that this check is implemented to prevent players from receiving a refund for a game and then taking their system offline to continue using the game without a valid license. In any case, this caused quite a stir online and it will be interesting to see how players will react to this announcement in the coming days.
