Sony Comments on Steam PlayStation Account Controversy

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Key Takeaways

  • Sony is under pressure to maintain PlayStation Network account requirements for PC ports.
  • The requirement aims to support the safety and security of online gaming for PlayStation fans on PC.



Sony president and CFO Hiroki Totoki commented on the controversy surrounding the company's push to require a PlayStation Network account for the PC port of Steam. This provision caused much frustration and resentment for Sony in the Helldivers 2 community earlier this year, and the release of God of War Ragnarok on Steam has also built a push from fans who want to enjoy the title without logging in.

Sony continues its PC push with various game releases throughout 2024, including launch days and dates for Helldivers 2 and ports of God of War Ragnarok SY Horizon Forbidden West Complete Edition. It looks like 2025 will follow a similar release pattern with the launch of the Marvel's Spider-Man 2 on Steam in January, and PC gamers have more PlayStation titles to play than ever before. However, the company's push for a PlayStation Network account linking to a PC port has sparked controversy over it. Helldivers 2with some fans blaming the company's decision for the game's decline in active Steam players over time. Many believe the account link requirement is difficult, and Sony's president shared his thoughts on the community push during the company's Q&A portion of its latest earnings call.


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As reported by GamesRadar +, Totoki mentioned that Sony “learned a lot” about the community's push against the requirements of the PlayStation Network account and the possibility of problems on PC. However, Totoki noted that the measure “helps to maintain security” in the game streaming service and allow PlayStation fans to enjoy games in a safe online environment on PC. As a result, Sony will “continue to explore the best ways” to promote a secure environment, and the account link requirement will remain a cornerstone of this strategy.


  • Sony has “learned a lot” about community pressure on account link requirements.
  • Requirements for the PC port of PlayStation will continue to be maintained to maintain a safe and secure online environment.


Totoki's comments make it clear that a PlayStation Network account will still be required for the upcoming PC port, including. Marvel's Spider-Man 2 on Steam, regardless of player reviews. At the very least, PlayStation fans on PC can expect the same game features as the PS5 version, including full DualSense compatibility and the ability to earn trophies.

During the same Q&A session, Totoki commented on the failure of agreed bysays the company is still analyzing what went wrong with the new IP from the shuttered Firewalk Studios. The Sony president admitted it agreed by lack of user testing and other forms of evaluation during development, and the company's “siloed” organizational structure may have contributed to the game's poor performance.

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