Highlights

  • Steam refunds Helldivers 2 players despite playtime limit, responding to outrage over mandatory PSN linking.
  • The backlash has led to a drop in the game's user rating and an increase in refunds exceeding 2-hour limit, highlighting player discontent.
  • Concerns about potential bans for workarounds in regions without PSN access add complexity to the situation.

Steam is making unexpected moves in the gaming world, refunding Helldivers 2 players despite their playtime exceeding the usual two-hour limit. Helldivers 2, developed by Arrowhead Game Studios, has been a popular multiplayer game on both PlayStation and PC platforms. However, recent controversies surrounding mandatory PlayStation Network (PSN) account linking for PC players have led to widespread discontent among the gaming community.

The announcement of a mandatory PSN account linking for PC players of Helldivers 2 from a message posted on social media by Sony through Arrowhead, and it has sparked outrage among the gaming community. Players are upset about the requirement, which they argue restricts access to the game for those residing in countries without access to PSN.

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Helldivers 2 Players Are Claiming Refunds After Account Linking Controversy

Despite Steam's standard policy of limiting refunds to games played for less than two hours, numerous Helldivers 2 players have successfully received refunds after exceeding this limit. Reports suggest that Steam is making exceptions in response to the significant backlash against the mandatory PSN account linking requirement.

The controversy surrounding the account linking announcement has led to significant backlash from players, resulting in a drop in Helldivers 2's rating on Steam from "Very Positive" to "Mostly Negative." Players have expressed concerns about the impact of mandatory PSN account linking on their ability to access the game, particularly for those in countries without PSN access. To claim a refund for Helldivers 2 on Steam, players can follow these steps:

  • Navigate to the Steam Support section of the Steam application.
  • Click on "Help" in the top-right corner of the screen, then select "Steam Support."
  • Choose Helldivers 2 from the list of games.
  • Select the option "It's not what I expected."
  • Request a refund and provide a reason for your request, such as the mandatory PSN account linking.

Amid the controversy surrounding the PSN and Steam account linking, concerns have arisen regarding potential bans for Helldivers 2 players attempting workarounds in regions without access to PSN. The fear of permanent account bans adds another layer of complexity to an already contentious situation. This development highlights the broader implications of platform policies and the importance of ensuring equitable access to gaming experiences for players worldwide.

Sony's adjustment to the PSN FAQs following the Helldivers 2 controversy marks a subtle yet significant shift in the ongoing dialogue between players and platform holders. By quietly amending the language surrounding account linking, Sony appears to be acknowledging the gravity of concerns from Helldivers 2 players. However, this move also shows the need for greater transparency and clarity in platform policies to foster trust and collaboration within the gaming community.