Sony has reversed course on a controversial update for Helldivers 2! Originally, players on all platforms (including PC) were required to link a PlayStation Network (PSN) account to play the game. This decision sparked outrage, as it would have locked out many players due to regional restrictions.

The official PlayStation Twitter account confirmed the cancellation of mandatory PSN account linking. Their statement reads:

This reversal comes after a rough weekend for Helldivers 2. The initial announcement led to a massive surge of negative reviews on Steam, despite the game’s popularity. While Sony remained silent, developer Arrowhead Studios actively communicated with fans, likely playing a role in the turnaround.

However, the damage may not be fully undone. Helldivers 2 remains negatively reviewed on Steam, and the controversy even impacted reviews for the first Helldivers game.

This episode raises questions about Sony’s strategy, particularly regarding their desire to grow in the live service market (evident with purchases like Bungie and publishing Helldivers 2). The initial decision alienated fans and developers alike, potentially tarnishing their image.

Whether Sony can regain trust and deliver a smooth experience for Helldivers 2 in the future remains to be seen.