In a move that has reignited discussions within the gaming community, Sony has recently delisted the original Horizon Zero Dawn from both Steam and the Epic Games Store. This decision coincides with the announcement of a remastered version, which will require players to have a PlayStation Network (PSN) account to access the game on PC. The implications of this requirement have raised eyebrows, particularly following the backlash Sony faced earlier this year with the launch of Helldivers 2.
Controversy Surrounding PSN Requirements
The introduction of mandatory PSN accounts for PC gamers sparked a review bomb campaign against Helldivers 2 on Steam. Although Sony ultimately reversed this requirement, the game remains inaccessible in several countries where PSN is not supported. This situation has cast a shadow over all of Sony’s PC titles, including the recently released God of War Ragnarök and the now-remastered Horizon Zero Dawn, which are unavailable in over 100 countries.
Fans of Horizon Zero Dawn were taken aback this week when they noticed the original game had been removed from digital storefronts, despite its prior availability. While the Steam page for the Complete Edition remains active, the option to purchase the game has vanished, replaced by pre-order options for the remastered version and its sequel, Forbidden West.
The remastered version’s Steam page indicates the PSN account requirement in the fine print, a stark contrast to the original game, which did not impose such restrictions. This has led to a wave of negative reviews, with players expressing frustration over the delisting of the original game in favor of a remaster that requires PSN access. One review succinctly captures the sentiment: “Delisted the original game just to add the remaster with PSN account forced into the game.”
As anticipation builds for the release of Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered on October 31, many speculate that it will face a similar fate as Helldivers 2 in terms of user reviews. Given the ongoing discontent from PC gamers regarding Sony’s PSN policies, it appears unlikely that the company will reconsider its stance.
Despite the controversy, it is noteworthy that the original Horizon Zero Dawn Complete Edition remains available on GOG, where it is offered DRM-free, allowing players to enjoy the game without any online restrictions.
