Edited 5/6/2024
Per Sony's Twitter:
"Helldivers fans -- we’ve heard your feedback on the Helldivers 2 account linking update. The May 6 update, which would have required Steam and PlayStation Network account linking for new players and for current players beginning May 30, will not be moving forward.

We’re still learning what is best for PC players and your feedback has been invaluable. Thanks again for your continued support of Helldivers 2 and we’ll keep you updated on future plans."

So long as they don't attempt to force PSN accounts on PC players, I'm changing this back to a positive review, barring any more greedy corporate shenanigans.

Original Review:
As an avid gamer, the recent changes surrounding Helldivers 2 have left a bitter taste in my mouth. When I initially purchased this game, I was thrilled by its engaging cooperative gameplay and challenging mechanics. However, Sony's recent decision to mandate linking a PlayStation Network (PSN) account to continue playing the game I had bought months ago feels like a betrayal.

This abrupt policy shift isn't just inconvenient; it's fundamentally unfair. Players who have invested time and money into a game should not be subjected to changed terms of usage that weren't part of the original agreement. This feels particularly unjust considering there is no option for a refund after the standard two-hour play window, yet the terms of my game usage can be altered without consent.

Moreover, this change has been introduced amidst already struggling reviews, where players express frustration over stability and performance issues. Instead of addressing these critical concerns that affect the core gameplay experience, the focus has been shifted to enforcing account restrictions that complicate access.

In conclusion, Sony's decision feels like a stark reminder that consumer rights and game accessibility often take a back seat to corporate controls. Decisions are made top-down without considering the customer. This isn't the gaming experience we signed up for, and it certainly isn't one we should accept.

Edited 5/6/2024 Per Sony's Twitter: "Helldivers fans -- we’ve heard your feedback on the Helldivers 2 account linking update. The May 6 update, which would have required Steam and PlayStation Network account linking for new players and for current players beginning May 30, will not be moving forward. We’re still learning what is best for PC players and your feedback has been invaluable. Thanks again for your continued support of Helldivers 2 and we’ll keep you updated on future plans." So long as they don't attempt to force PSN accounts on PC players, I'm changing this back to a positive review, barring any more greedy corporate shenanigans. Original Review: As an avid gamer, the recent changes surrounding Helldivers 2 have left a bitter taste in my mouth. When I initially purchased this game, I was thrilled by its engaging cooperative gameplay and challenging mechanics. However, Sony's recent decision to mandate linking a PlayStation Network (PSN) account to continue playing the game I had bought months ago feels like a betrayal. This abrupt policy shift isn't just inconvenient; it's fundamentally unfair. Players who have invested time and money into a game should not be subjected to changed terms of usage that weren't part of the original agreement. This feels particularly unjust considering there is no option for a refund after the standard two-hour play window, yet the terms of my game usage can be altered without consent. Moreover, this change has been introduced amidst already struggling reviews, where players express frustration over stability and performance issues. Instead of addressing these critical concerns that affect the core gameplay experience, the focus has been shifted to enforcing account restrictions that complicate access. In conclusion, Sony's decision feels like a stark reminder that consumer rights and game accessibility often take a back seat to corporate controls. Decisions are made top-down without considering the customer. This isn't the gaming experience we signed up for, and it certainly isn't one we should accept.