Published , by Brittany Vincent
Published , by Brittany Vincent
Sony has confirmed that it will cease to allow retailers like GameStop and Amazon to sell digital download codes for PlayStation 4.
Beginning April 1, retailers will no longer be able to purchase these codes, and will instead have to use their credit card or PayPal accounts to purchase digital titles via the PlayStation Store. After the news began circulating online via leaked memo obtained by Twitter personality Wario64, Sony confirmed to The Verge via PlayStation spokesperson that this is indeed true.
“We can confirm that as of April 1, 2019, Sony Interactive Entertainment will no longer offer full games through SIE’s Global Digital at Retail program,” the spokesperson explained. “This decision was made in order to continue to align key businesses globally. To support full games and premium editions, SIE will introduce increased denominations at select retailers. DLC, add-ons, virtual currency, and season passes will still be available.”
This means that if you want to make digital purchases of PlayStation 4 games without giving up your credit card information, you can still purchase PlayStation Network credit at retailers, enter the code online, and then finalize the sale online. You wouldn't go to GameStop or somewhere like that and buy a code, then redeem it at home and start playing anymore. This might make things a bit frustrating for users who don't want to purchase physical copies and don't like to offer sensitive payment information online, but it appears Sony is stalwart in its resolution to move forward with the new plan.
It's unclear what the complete ramifications of this decisions are just yet, and whether all companies will be affected by the change. If you typically go for digital download codes, however, this might put a damper on your plans. We'll bring you additional information as it releases regarding this manner.