Sony has announced a significant change in its approach to PC gaming, responding to community feedback by no longer requiring a PlayStation Network (PSN) account to play some of its popular titles. Starting with the release of Marvel's Spider-Man 2 on PC, players can enjoy the game without needing a PSN account. This policy shift extends to other titles including The Last of Us Part II Remastered, God of War Ragnarök, and Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered. While this move addresses concerns about the mandatory account linkage, it's unclear if it will affect other single-player PC ports like Until Dawn or Days Gone.

However, Sony is keen on enticing PC gamers to join its online ecosystem. To this end, the company has introduced new incentives for those who choose to link their PSN accounts. Players can unlock exclusive in-game content such as early access to suits in Marvel's Spider-Man 2 and resource bundles in God of War Ragnarök. Here’s a detailed look at the incentives:

PlayStation in-game content incentives on PC:

Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 - Early unlock suits: the Spider-Man 2099 Black Suit and the Miles Morales 2099 Suit.

God of War Ragnarök - Gain access to the Armor of the Black Bear set for Kratos at the first Lost Items chest in the Realm Between Realms (previously only accessible in a New Game+ run) and a resource bundle (500 Hacksilver and 250 XP).

The Last of Us Part II Remastered - +50 points to activate bonus features and unlock extras. Jordan’s Jacket from Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet as a skin for Ellie.

Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered - Gain access to Nora Valiant outfit.

Sony plans to continue collaborating with developers under the PlayStation Studios banner to offer more benefits to players who opt into a PSN account. While no additional games have been confirmed to drop the PSN requirement, linking an account still offers advantages like trophy support and friend management.

The response to Sony's PC game offerings has been varied. While many fans appreciate the chance to experience formerly console-exclusive titles, the PSN account requirement has been a point of contention, especially in regions where PSN services are not available. This issue came to a head with the Helldivers 2 community last year when Sony initially mandated PSN account linkage for Steam users, only to retract the decision shortly after due to backlash.