Sony Cancels Mandatory PSN Account Linking for Helldivers 2 After Community Backlash

Sony Interactive Entertainment has announced the cancellation of the mandatory PlayStation Network (PSN) account linking requirement for Helldivers 2 on PC, following a significant backlash from the gaming community. This decision comes after a wave of negative reviews and the delisting of the game from sale in numerous countries.

Sony’s Initial Decision Faced Extreme Backlash

The controversy began when Sony announced that players on PC would be required to link a PSN account to play Helldivers 2. This requirement was set to take effect on 6 May for new buyers and 30 May for existing players, with a deadline of 4 June to link accounts. This decision was met with widespread criticism, as it would force players without a PlayStation console to create a PSN account.

The backlash was swift and severe, with the game receiving over 200,000 negative reviews on Steam, leading to an "Overwhelmingly Negative" recent review status. Helldivers 2 was also delisted from Steam in 177 countries where PSN is not available, further fueling the community's anger.

Arrowhead Studios' Response

Arrowhead Studios CEO Johan Pilestedt took partial responsibility for the controversy, acknowledging that the team failed to adequately communicate the requirement to players. He stated that it was his decision to disable account linking at launch to allow players to start the game without linking their accounts.

Sony's Reversal of The Move

In response to the backlash, Sony has decided to reverse the mandatory PSN account linking requirement. In an announcement, Sony stated, "Helldivers fans - we've heard your feedback on the Helldivers 2 account linking update. The May 6 update, which would have required Steam and PlayStation Network account linking for new players and for current players beginning May 30, will not be moving forward."

The decision to cancel the mandatory account linking has been welcomed by the community, with many expressing relief and appreciation for Sony's response to their feedback. Helldivers 2 is once again available worldwide for both PC and PlayStation 5 players, without the need to link a PSN account.

Sony's reversal of the mandatory PSN account linking requirement for Helldivers 2 demonstrates the power of community feedback in shaping gaming policies. With the mandatory account linking update now canceled, Helldivers 2 is once again available worldwide for both PC and PlayStation 5 players, allowing fans to continue enjoying the game without the added requirement of linking their accounts.