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Sony now allows players in multiple countries to buy and play several PlayStation games on Steam without regional restrictions. Critics had lodged complaints for months. Steam users can now access these titles regardless of their country.
Why Restrictions Existed
Regional lockouts prevent people in certain areas from accessing content. Companies impose them for licensing rules, pricing differences, localization delays, or legal constraints. Steam and console platforms have used region coding to enforce such limits. Sony first applied restrictions when Helldivers 2 launched in early 2024. The game required a PlayStation Network (PSN) account to play on Steam. As a result, Steam delisted Helldivers 2 in 177 regions where PSN didn’t operate.
Backlash Over PSN Requirement
Sony enforced mandatory PSN sign-in for all new players starting May 6, 2024, and extended it to existing players by June 4, 2024. They justified it by citing safety and security for PlayStation users. Many Steam players responded with negative reviews. Due to heavy backlash, especially in countries unable to access PSN, Sony reversed the requirement. They agreed to remove PSN login and regional lockouts. Helldivers 2 and other popular PlayStation titles resumed global availability on Steam.
PlayStation Games Restored on Steam
On June 14, 2025, Sony lifted regional restrictions on Helldivers 2, God of War Ragnarök, Spider‑Man 2, and The Last of Us Part II Remastered on Steam. Players worldwide can now purchase and play these titles. Gamers in previously blocked regions no longer face errors or “unavailable” messages in Steam stores. They can now freely buy and play major PlayStation titles. Sony removed those barriers without announcement, but confirmed the change in update logs. This move signals PlayStation’s evolving PC strategy. They now treat Steam users more like a unified market, moving away from console-first restrictions. Sony’s rollback is a step toward a more open global marketplace.
Potential impact on future PlayStation and Steam-released games
Sony’s decision could guide how they launch future titles on PC. Removing geographic restrictions may set a precedent for simultaneous worldwide PC releases. Steam users can expect fewer region-based limits in the future. Sony’s decision may influence other console publishers. Steam users now get full access to major PlayStation games. Rival developers could follow suit to remain competitive. The global standard may be shifting.
Check Before Buying!
Availability may still vary due to age ratings, licensing, or local regulations—for example, Germany enforces rules banning certain symbols. Steam listings will still note any game-specific regional exceptions. Always check the store page before purchase. Even without regional blocks, users may still need a PSN account for some PlayStation PC games. Sony may integrate features like cloud saves, achievements, or DLC management—even if purchase restrictions are gone. Sony continues investing in PC ports. Over the past year, they released several exclusive titles on PC. Lifting region restrictions shows a maturation in their PC rollout strategy. This could lead to increased brand loyalty and long-term profitability.
