PlayStation Users Alarmed by New DRM Requiring Online Check Every 30 Days
PlayStation Users Alarmed as New DRM May Require Internet Connection Every 30 Days
Concerns rise after expiration dates appear on purchased games
There are growing reports that Sony may have quietly implemented a new DRM (Digital Rights Management) system in the latest software update for PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5. This system appears to limit access to digitally purchased games, requiring users to connect their consoles to the internet every 30 days for license verification. Otherwise, games that users have already paid for may become locked until the system reconnects online.
The issue first surfaced through a video by well-known console modder Modded Hardware, who demonstrated that digital games purchased since March on firmware version 13.50 now display an expiration date, similar to games included with PlayStation Plus. Shortly after, prominent data miner Lance McDonald confirmed on social media that if the console remains offline for more than 30 days, access to these games can be revoked immediately. This revelation quickly sparked widespread concern across the gaming community.
However, the group DoesItPlay later provided additional context, suggesting that the issue might actually be a bug rather than an intentional feature. According to their sources, Sony may have accidentally broken part of the system while attempting to patch certain vulnerabilities. They also noted that they had been aware of the confusing expiration display for some time but did not consider it urgent until the situation escalated into a major online discussion.
The situation became more concerning when testers from DoesItPlay conducted further experiments. By intentionally draining the console’s CMOS battery to remove internal time restrictions, they found that recently purchased games such as Super Meat Boy Forever became unplayable. This indicates that the DRM verification system is actively working in the background and can directly impact offline gameplay.
This development has led to serious concerns about digital ownership rights. In an era where gaming is increasingly shifting toward fully digital distribution, the idea that players might lose access to games they purchased simply because they haven’t connected to the internet is difficult for many to accept. Considering that digital games often cost around $20 to $70 USD (approximately $740–$2,600), this represents a significant investment for consumers expecting full ownership.
At the time of writing, Sony has not released any official statement regarding the issue. Many are hoping this is simply a technical error that will be resolved soon. However, if this turns out to be a deliberate direction for PlayStation’s DRM policy, it could severely impact consumer trust in digital purchases. For now, players are advised to connect their consoles to the internet regularly to avoid unexpected game lockouts.
Origin: Kotaku
