Sony is reportedly preparing a new policy that could require certain digital games on PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4 to periodically connect to the internet every 30 days in order to remain playable.

According to reports cited by tech publication Tom’s Hardware, select digital titles are now showing a validity period along with a countdown timer on their information pages. This suggests that access to some purchased games may depend on regular online verification.

The alleged system appears to function as a digital license check-in process, where players must connect their console to the internet at least once within a 30-day window. Failure to do so could potentially restrict access to the game until the system verifies ownership again.

While Sony has not issued a formal explanation regarding the change, the development has sparked discussion among gamers about digital ownership rights and long-term access to purchased content. Concerns are being raised about what happens if users are unable to connect online due to travel, network issues, or server outages.

The update, if fully implemented, may primarily impact digital-only purchases, which are already dependent on account authentication systems. However, the visibility of a countdown timer on certain titles has fueled speculation that a broader policy shift could be underway.

Industry observers note that similar license verification systems already exist across several digital platforms, but the frequency of a mandatory 30-day check-in could represent a stricter approach compared to current standards.

Gamers are now closely watching for an official clarification from Sony regarding which titles are affected and whether physical disc-based games will remain unaffected by the change. Until then, the reported system remains a developing topic within the gaming community.