Steam has recently made headlines for its decision to automatically refund pre-orders of Ghost of Tsushima Director’s Cut in specific regions where PlayStation Network (PSN) is not available. This move comes amidst a backdrop of controversy surrounding the mandatory PSN linking requirement for certain games and regions.
Helldivers 2 and PSN Linking Riot
The decision to refund pre-orders of Ghost of Tsushima Director’s Cut seems to stem from the fallout surrounding the mandatory PSN linking requirement for Helldivers 2. But the difference is that Ghost of Tsushima announced the requirement for PSN-linking (at least only for multiplayer mode) at the very beginning before the release day, not a few months after, like Helldivers 2.
Last week, Helldivers 2 was pulled from sale in 177 countries due to the implementation of mandatory PSN linking, which caused uproar among players unable to access PSN in their regions. But a day later, the riot of players made Sony surrender, taking back the requirement of PSN-linking until further notice.
Players won.
Sucker Punch Previously Confirmed if PSN-Linking is not Mandatory for Single Player Mode
Last week, Sucker Punch as developer has stated on X platform if PSN-linkin is not required to play single player mode. But later, the problem comes.
Reports have emerged indicating that digital storefronts like Steam and third party like Green Man Gaming have begun automatically refunding pre-orders of Ghost of Tsushima Director’s Cut for players residing in territories where PSN is inaccessible.
While there has been no official statement from Sony, Steam, or Sucker Punch, players have taken to social media and gaming forums to voice their complaints about canceled pre-orders.
In the context above, if you are a player from an inaccessible region, you can still create a PSN account using a different region not from where you live (using VPN or else). But, when you try to pre-order or buy Ghost of Tsushima on Steam, there is a big chance you will end up, like gamers above, getting refunded. Sony still asked you for “the real and legal PSN account” from their accessible region.
Is Sony Really Alergic to Money From 177 inaccessible countries?
Given Sucker Punch’s affiliation with PlayStation Studios, it is speculated that the decision to automatically refund pre-orders may be a preemptive measure to avoid backlash similar to that faced by Helldivers 2. Fan reactions have been mixed, with some expressing understanding towards the logistical challenges of PSN availability, while others criticize the lack of transparency and communication from the involved parties.
Despite the refund controversy, anticipation remains high for the PC release of Ghost of Tsushima Director’s Cut, scheduled for May 16th, 2024. Nixxes Software, the team behind the PC port, has provided details on crossplay functionality and system requirements for the game. Additionally, a new optional PlayStation UI overlay tailored for PC users has been introduced, enhancing the gaming experience for players transitioning from console to PC.