Sony Unveils PS+ Gifts, Updates PC Policy

Sony's controversial PC gaming policy, mandating PSN tethering even for single-player titles and excluding certain regions, has sparked significant backlash from gamers. While Sony hasn't completely reversed its tethering requirement, recent announcements indicate policy relaxations.

Several titles will no longer require PSN tethering:

• Marvel's Spider-Man 2
• God of War Ragnarök
• The Last of Us Part II Remastered
• Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered

However, players who choose to link their PSN accounts will receive incentives:

• Marvel's Spider-Man 2: Early access to the "2099" suit line for Peter Parker and Miles Morales.
• God of War Ragnarök: The Black Bear armor set, the first "Lost Things" chest, and bonus resources.
• The Last of Us Part II Remastered: Bonus points for unlocking features.
• Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered: The Nora Valiant costume.

Sony's COO, Hiroki Totoki, acknowledged the negative gamer response to the PSN connection requirement during a November investor call. He cited security and order as justifications, focusing on service-based games. However, he failed to clarify how this security rationale applies to single-player games like Marvel's Spider-Man 2 and God of War Ragnarök. The evolving landscape of gaming necessitates a reevaluation of these practices.