Sony Reverses Helldivers 2 PSN Account Linking Policy on Steam Amid Backlash

Sony has reversed its decision that caused uproar among players regarding Helldivers 2 on Steam, where users were required to link their PlayStation Network accounts to Valve’s service. The controversy erupted over the weekend following Sony’s announcement on Friday, stating the need for account linking to continue playing Helldivers 2. This decision faced severe criticism from the gaming community, resulting in the game being review bombed on Steam.

In response to the backlash, Sony issued an update, stating that they would not proceed with the new account linking requirement. A post from the PlayStation handle on X on Monday morning addressed Helldivers fans, stating, “We’ve heard your feedback on the Helldivers 2 account linking update.” The post continued, “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.”

“We’re still learning what is best for PC players and your feedback has been invaluable,” the post added. “Thanks again for your continued support of Helldivers 2, and we’ll keep you updated on future plans.”

The decision to backtrack on the account linking requirement comes after widespread discontent among players, highlighting the significance of community feedback in shaping gaming policies and decisions.

Sony has walked back on its decision that mandated new and existing Helldivers 2 players on Steam to link their PlayStation Network accounts to Valve’s service after severe backlash over the weekend. On Friday, Sony had announced that users would need to link their Steam account to their PSN account to continue playing Helldivers 2. The PlayStation parent and Helldivers 2 developer Arrowhead Game Studios received widespread criticism over the move, leading to the game being review bombed on Steam.

In its latest update, Sony said that it would “not be moving forward” with the new requirement. “Helldivers fans — we’ve heard your feedback on the Helldivers 2 account linking update,” a post from the PlayStation handle on X said Monday morning. “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.”

“We’re still learning what is best for PC players and your feedback has been invaluable. Thanks again for your continued support of Helldivers 2 and we’ll keep you updated on future plans,” the post added.