PS5 firmware updates required by some physical games draw fresh criticism

GG Brief Editorial Desk · AI-assisted, source attributed

Push Square reports Sony has increased the rate of PS5 firmware updates and some newer physical PS5 games now require the latest system firmware to be installed before they will run. Push Square says the company is deploying those updates in response to hacks that opened up the console, and that the requirement to update has attracted criticism on social media. The article includes a tweet from Polish user Aleksy Leśniak expressing strong disapproval, and notes the discussion follows Sony’s decision to cease manufacturing physical discs in 2028. Push Square does not report an official Sony statement on changing the update requirement.

• What happened: Push Square reports Sony has been deploying PS5 firmware updates at an increased rate and that some newer physical PS5 games require the latest firmware version to be installed in order to play.
• Why it matters: Push Square says that requirement has drawn criticism from some corners of social media, illustrated by a tweet shown in the article from Polish user Aleksy Leśniak directed at PlayStation.
• Context: Push Square reports the increased update cadence is a response to hacks that opened up the PS5, and places the controversy in the aftermath of Sony’s decision to cease manufacturing physical discs in 2028.
• What next: Push Square does not report any confirmed changes to Sony’s update or distribution policies or an official Sony comment on whether the requirement will be altered.