On October 31, 2024, Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered is set to release for PC gamers. The game comes with a major requirement that has sparked a lot of controversy—players must have a PlayStation Network (PSN) account. This requirement has created heated discussions in the gaming community, especially among PC players who never needed a PSN account before.
Sony’s new requirement for Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered on PC is a significant shift. The original game, released on PC in 2020, did not require any such account. Now, players who want to experience the remastered version will need to create or use an existing PSN account, even if they don’t own a PlayStation console. Many PC gamers feel this move is unnecessary and adds extra hurdles for them to enjoy the game.
Why Is a PSN Account Necessary?
Sony’s decision to enforce the PSN account requirement for PC users seems to be part of a larger plan. By making a PSN account mandatory, Sony aims to connect its PlayStation ecosystem to PC gaming. This allows them to offer features like cloud saves, cross-platform play, and other PlayStation services. These features can benefit players by allowing them to sync progress across platforms and enable certain multiplayer functions.
While these features can improve the overall experience for some, the problem is that not everyone wants to be forced into this system. Many PC players prefer keeping their gaming experience separate from consoles. The PSN requirement also limits players in regions where PSN services may not be fully available or reliable.
Community Reactions and Backlash
Since the announcement, the gaming community has expressed frustration with Sony’s decision. Many players argue that they should not need a console-specific account to play a PC game. This requirement feels unnecessary to many, especially when the original game didn’t have it.
Players have taken to social media platforms like Reddit and Twitter to voice their displeasure. Some are even calling for a boycott of the remastered version until Sony reconsiders its decision. The controversy comes on the heels of a similar backlash earlier in the year, when Sony introduced a PSN requirement for another game, Helldivers 2. Due to the overwhelming negative response, Sony eventually dropped the requirement for that game. However, it appears the company is sticking to the PSN mandate for Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered.
Will This Affect Sales?
The PSN requirement could hurt the sales of Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered on PC. While the game is highly anticipated, this extra step may turn away some buyers. For players who are not interested in the additional features or who just want a simple, hassle-free gaming experience, the need to sign up for a PSN account could feel like an unnecessary burden.
On the flip side, the remastered version offers enhanced graphics and improved performance, which may still attract many fans. The original Horizon Zero Dawn was widely praised for its beautiful visuals and engaging gameplay, and the remastered version promises to take it even further. These improvements could be a strong selling point, especially for gamers who want the best possible experience.
What Does This Mean for the Future?
The PSN requirement for Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered could mark the start of a new strategy for Sony. If successful, more PlayStation games coming to PC might follow the same path, with a PSN account becoming a standard requirement. This would make the gaming experience more integrated, but it also raises questions about player freedom and accessibility. For now, it’s unclear whether other upcoming titles will also require PSN accounts, but this move is something to watch closely.
What Should PC Gamers Do?
PC gamers will need to decide if the enhanced experience is worth the hassle of creating a PSN account. For players who are excited about the remastered version’s improvements, the PSN requirement may feel like a small price to pay. However, for others, especially those in regions with limited PSN services, it could be a dealbreaker.
If you’re planning to play Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered on October 31, 2024, make sure you have a PSN account ready. Without it, you won’t be able to access the game.
As of now, Sony has not shown signs of dropping this requirement, but the community response might influence future decisions. Keep an eye on official updates from Sony in case there are any changes leading up to the release.
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