Sony clarifies ongoing PlayStation DRM issue, confirms digital games require a 'one-time online check' to authenticate licenses, but players won't experience any issues beyond that

It's believed the license check is to prevent refund scams

News By Demi Williams published 30 April 2026

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• Sony has confirmed players won't need constant internet access to play digital PlayStation games
• A 30-day license verification countdown has been introduced fpr new digital games
• A one-time online check will be required to validate the game license

Sony has finally responded to the ongoing PlayStation license controversy, confirming that a constant internet connection won't be required to play digital games.

Earlier this week, a new '30-day license check' was spotted on digitally purchased PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4 games, immediately raising concerns among users. It was initially thought that the system would revoke game licenses if players didn't log in to their PSN account or connect their console to the internet.

This would apply to digital games bought after the latest March system update, and reportedly not impact previous purchases.

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"Potential major DRM issue rolled out by PlayStation (and Xbox as well, allegedly). All new PSN purchases now have a 30 day validation countdown. Already investigating to find out more details," spotted X/Twitter user 'DoesItPlay'.

However, Sony has now addressed the issue and, at the same time, quelled worries by confirming that users only need to be connected to the internet and complete a one-time license authentication. Beyond that, no further checks will be required.

"Players can continue to access and play their purchased games as usual," a Sony Interactive Entertainment spokesperson told GameSpot. "A one-time online check is required to confirm the game's license, after which no further check-ins are required."

Thankfully, the new system shouldn't cause too much trouble for users, but any PS5 and PS4 digital games bought from the PS Store going forward will need to be authenticated once.

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