Players of Helldivers 2 on PC via Steam were recently notified of a new prerequisite: connecting their Steam account to a PlayStation Network (PSN) account. Technical reasons made this security measure optional at first, but it is now required. The move is aimed at enhancing player safety and security within the game. By linking accounts, players can be protected from instances of player cheating and abuse.
How to Register
New players on Steam must link their accounts from May 6th onwards, while existing players have until May 30th to start the process and until June 4th to complete it. Registration for a PlayStation Network account is free and straightforward. Here’s how to do it:
- Visit the PlayStation Network account creation page at link.
- Fill out the required information, including your email address, date of birth, and desired username and password.
- Once done, log in to your Steam account and go to the Helldivers 2 settings.
- Look for the option to link your Steam account to a PlayStation Network account to complete the process.
Why Link Accounts to PSN?
The primary explanation for how crucial it is to link an account to the PSN is to maintain a fair and secure gaming environment. Cheaters and hackers have the ability to compromise the integrity of the game, which will negatively impact each player’s experience.
The PSN account requirement in Helldivers 2 enables developers to collaborate with PlayStation’s anti-cheat mechanisms to effectively detect and stop unfair activities. By taking this action, we can ensure that gamers are not hindered from enjoying themselves by unfair benefits or unfavorable player advantages.
Community Concerns
Some players have expressed concerns regarding the mandatory account linking, questioning its implications for privacy and data security. One community member stated,
“Can you explain to me how selling my personal data to Sony PlayStation will make me safer? I play on PC and don’t want to have an additional account with my personal data anywhere else whether it takes a minute or ten. This further exposes me to having my data stolen. I find the claim that this is about security and protecting the community to be a cynical, low-brow ploy to target my baser instincts and it is scandalous.” – pio.maz9
Others worry about potential data breaches or misuse of personal information. However, the game developers have not provided detailed information about how player data will be utilized or safeguarded.
What if Your Country Doesn’t Support PSN?
Some players have raised concerns, particularly those residing in countries not supported by PSN. However, it’s possible to create an account using a different country’s details. Many players with similar restrictions have found success with this solution despite the inconvenience.
Additional FAQs
- Why was this requirement not mandatory from the beginning? While the initial decision to make account linking optional was likely due to technical considerations, the shift to mandatory linking appears to prioritize player safety and fair play.
- What data does Sony collect from players through this account linking? The primary purpose seems to be related to moderation efforts, such as tracking instances of griefing and abuse. Specifics were not disclosed.
- Can I still play Helldivers 2 if I don’t have a PlayStation account? As of the implementation of this requirement, a PlayStation account is necessary for PC players to continue playing Helldivers 2.
