Gamertags are a key part of a player’s identity in the gaming community. They represent you across platforms, leaderboards, and social interactions.
Naturally, many gamers wonder if changing their gamertag is free or if there are costs involved. This article explores the ins and outs of gamertag name changes, the policies of major gaming platforms, and tips to help you decide when and how to change your gamertag.
What Is a Gamertag?
A gamertag is a unique username or handle used by players on gaming networks such as Xbox Live, PlayStation Network, or Steam. It serves as your digital identity, allowing friends and other players to recognize you during gameplay, chat, and competitive events.
Because gamertags are so important, many players want the flexibility to change them if they no longer fit their style, interests, or if they simply want something more personalized. But before you decide to change your gamertag, understanding the costs and limitations is crucial.
Are Gamertag Changes Free?
The answer depends on the platform you are using. Each major gaming network has its own policies regarding gamertag changes, including whether they are free or require a fee.
Below is a detailed breakdown of the policies from the most popular platforms.
Xbox Live
Microsoft’s Xbox Live is one of the most widely used gaming networks. For years, it had a strict policy where gamers paid a fee to change their gamertags.
However, this has evolved over time.
| Change Number | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| First Gamertag Change | Free | Microsoft offers the first change free of charge. |
| Subsequent Changes | $9.99 USD (or local equivalent) | Each additional change costs a fee. |
The first gamertag change on Xbox Live is free, but if you want to change it again, you will need to pay a fee of around $9.99 USD. This fee applies regardless of whether you change your gamertag on Xbox consoles or through the Microsoft website.
PlayStation Network (PSN)
PlayStation Network (PSN) introduced the ability to change your online ID in 2019. Before that, the only way to change your username was to create a new account.
| Change Number | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| First Gamertag Change | Free | First change is free for PlayStation Plus members. |
| Subsequent Changes | $9.99 USD (or local equivalent) | Charged for each additional change. |
| Non-PlayStation Plus Members | $4.99 USD | First change costs for non-members. |
PlayStation offers its players a chance to change their online ID, but with some conditions. If you are a PlayStation Plus subscriber, your first change is free.
Non-subscribers will have to pay a small fee even for their first change.
Steam
Steam works differently compared to Xbox and PlayStation. Instead of a gamertag, Steam uses a “profile name” and a unique Steam ID.
Changing your profile name is completely free and can be done at any time.
“Steam profile names are flexible and can be changed as often as you’d like without any charges.” – Valve Support
However, your unique Steam ID remains constant and cannot be changed. This means that while your display name can be altered freely, some elements of your identity on Steam are fixed.
Why Do Platforms Charge for Name Changes?
Charging for gamertag changes helps platforms maintain system integrity and reduces abuse. Free changes might lead to frequent identity switching, which can be exploited for cheating, harassment, or confusion among players.
The fees also help cover the administrative costs of updating records, friend lists, leaderboards, and other back-end systems linked to a gamertag.
In summary: Fees discourage frequent changes while still giving players the option to update their identity when necessary.
Potential Issues of Changing Your Gamertag
Changing your gamertag might seem appealing, but it’s important to understand the potential drawbacks.
- Loss of Friends or Recognition: Your friends might not recognize your new gamertag, causing confusion.
- Game Compatibility: Some games or services may not update your name immediately, leading to discrepancies.
- Data and Achievements: Usually, achievements and game data remain intact, but some third-party apps or services might link to your old name.
- Cost: If you change your gamertag multiple times, the fees can add up quickly.
How to Change Your Gamertag: Step-by-Step
Each platform has a distinct process for changing your gamertag. Below are general instructions for the most popular services.
Xbox Live
- Go to your Xbox console or sign in to your Microsoft account on the web.
- Navigate to your profile and select “Customize profile.”
- Select “Change gamertag.”
- Enter your new gamertag and check availability.
- Confirm the change and pay any applicable fees.
PlayStation Network (PSN)
- Log in to your PSN account on a web browser or console.
- Go to “Account Management” and select “Online ID.”
- Enter your new desired online ID and check if it’s available.
- Confirm the change and pay any fees if applicable.
Steam
- Open the Steam client and log in.
- Click on your username at the top and select “Profile.”
- Click the “Edit Profile” button.
- Change the “Profile Name” field to your new display name.
- Save changes – no cost or restrictions apply.
Tips for Choosing a New Gamertag
Changing your gamertag is more than just picking a new name. It’s about creating an identity that represents you in the gaming world.
- Keep It Unique: Choose a name that stands out but is easy to remember.
- Check Availability: Popular names might already be taken, so have backup options.
- Be Mindful of Community Guidelines: Avoid offensive or inappropriate names that might get your account penalized.
- Think Long-Term: Pick a name you’ll be happy with for a long time to avoid multiple changes and fees.
Summary Table: Gamertag Change Policies at a Glance
| Platform | First Change Cost | Subsequent Changes Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xbox Live | Free | $9.99 USD | First change free, then paid |
| PlayStation Network | Free (PS Plus) / $4.99 (non-members) | $9.99 USD | Subscription affects pricing |
| Steam | Free | Free | Only profile name changes; Steam ID fixed |
Conclusion
Gamertag name changes are sometimes free, but usually come with conditions. Xbox Live and PlayStation Network both offer a free first change but charge thereafter.
Steam is more flexible, allowing unlimited free profile name changes, though your unique Steam ID remains unchanged.
Before changing your gamertag, consider the costs, potential confusion, and how frequently you want to update your identity. Choosing a good gamertag the first time can save you money and hassle down the road.
Understanding each platform’s policies will help you make informed decisions and maintain a strong presence in the gaming community.
