In a surprising move, Sony has announced it will no longer require players to link their PlayStation Network (PSN) accounts to play certain PC titles.

This decision comes after widespread criticism from PC gamers who objected to the PSN account requirement for games like Marvel's Spider-Man 2, The Last of Us Part II Remastered, God of War Ragnarök, and Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered. Starting with the launch of Marvel's Spider-Man 2 on PC, these titles will no longer require a PSN account to play. This change will also be applied retroactively to previously released PC versions of these games.

However, Sony isn't completely abandoning the idea of connecting PSN accounts to PC games. They've recognised the benefits of integration and have announced plans to offer exclusive perks to players who link their accounts. Players who link their PSN accounts to PC games can receive various in-game bonuses. For example, Marvel's Spider-Man 2 will offer early access to suits, while God of War Ragnarök will provide a resource bundle and an armour set. Other benefits may include access to exclusive content and trophy support for their PC gameplay.

Sony's decision to remove the mandatory PSN account requirement is a positive step towards fostering a more inclusive and accessible PC gaming experience. It removes a barrier that many gamers find frustrating and allows them to enjoy these titles without the hassle of creating a new account.

KitGuru says: While the option to link accounts and receive exclusive perks remains, the choice is now entirely up to the player. This flexibility gives gamers more control over their experience and respects their privacy preferences.

SEGA’s been on a bit of a hot streak in recent years, with the publisher releasing a ton of critically acclaimed and strong-performing titles including but not limited to Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, Metaphor: ReFantazio and even Sonic x Shadow Generations. Wanting to capitalise on its ongoing success, the publisher has now unveiled its new ‘SEGA Account’ initiative.

Available to sign up for right now, the publisher's new account system will offer “a profile that lets you maximize SEGA's online services and offers a ton of benefits,” adding that “anyone can sign up, and it's free to use!”

As of right now, account holders can “take part in promotions with incredible rewards!” however SEGA also promised that in the future you’ll also be able to view your stats and records across the publisher’s various titles.

Currently, those who sign up for an account can – between now and the 7th of March  – redeem the ‘Kazuma Kiryu Special Outfit DLC’ to be used in their upcoming title: Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii.

This isn’t the first time that SEGA has given away such in-game items, with many past Sonic titles offering some freebies for signing up to their newsletter.

That said, this seems to be a much more intuitive way to reward fans of the publisher. Hopefully the service improves with time.

KitGuru says: What do you think of reward systems such as this? Will you sign up for a SEGA account? Let us know down below.