PlayStation Provides Official Statement About New Online License DRM Checks

Late last week, it was reported by some PlayStation 5 users that there was new text on certain digital game purchases that may have indicated that those games would be unplayable offline if the console did not sync with the internet and PlayStation 5 servers after 30 days.

Captured by Does it play? on X, it was thought that PlayStation was indeed going to enforce DRM (Digital Rights Management) restrictions onto its virtual library, but now, PlayStation has released an official response to the claims.

Speaking to GameSpot, PlayStation has clarified that there will not be any required monthly check-ins after the initial digital license is confirmed and the game is purchased.

"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," said an unnamed representative from Sony Interactive Entertainment.

While the internet is still required to download digital games, players will still be allowed to play games offline if they choose to, as long as the digital game license has been verified once (which would most likely be at the same time as the initial game purchase).

This is likely a relief to some gamers. However, the constant anxiety and worry about an all-digital future and having access to purchased games has been a hot topic among several gaming communities in recent years.

The PlayStation 5 Pro, for example, required an $80 add-on purchase to have a disc drive to play physical games.

Nintendo also came under scrutiny for using Game-Key Cards instead of full-on cartridge releases for several Nintendo Switch 2 releases, giving some players the impression that they do not fully own the product they are paying for, and if the license is taken away, then they could lose access forever.

For now, PlayStation is not going that route, despite the constant rumors since this was first discovered.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Apr 29, 2026, where it first appeared in the Entertainment section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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This story was originally published April 29, 2026 at 6:37 PM.