PlayStation to require age verification for PSN features many PS5 games rely on

It was likely inevitable that Sony would begin age verification checks in some regions. Sure enough, players in the UK and Ireland are being asked to prove their identities. There are also signs that PlayStation will soon make the same demands worldwide. Otherwise, gamers could lose access to PSN features essential to many multiplayer PS5 games.

Push Square shared a screen capture of a new PlayStation Store prompt:

As part of our compliance with global regulations, you’ll need to verify your age later this year to continue using PlayStation communication features, such as messages and voice chat.

Microsoft and Discord's age verification protocols offer many of the same options. One method is a facial scan, in which the system estimates age with a smartphone camera. Alternatively, PSN members can use various ID documents, like a driver’s license or passport. Finally, it may be possible to submit a mobile number for text message verification.

Reddit posters are seeing a QR code on consoles that leads them to the PS app, where they can find further instructions. If refusing the checks, the PlayStation support page details the restrictions players face in PS4 and PS5 games. These constraints also apply to the mobile app and web-based services.

How multiplayer PS5 games could be impacted

Starting in June 2026, gamers could lose access to voice chat and text chat/messaging. In addition, party chat, Discord integrations, and sharing gameplay are at risk. Even multiplayer games that rely on their own communication options outside of PSN may not be excluded. Without age verification, players can still enjoy single-player modes in some titles, collect trophies, or browse the PlayStation Store.

After the passing of the UK Online Safety Act in 2023, gaming giants like Microsoft and Sony have gradually complied with the regulations. The goal is to make the internet a safer space for minors, but that may come at the expense of privacy.

Critics express distrust over whether Sony or third parties will keep sensitive information safe from hacks. Other naysayers simply find the procedure an annoyance, particularly when accounts are more than 18 years old.