The PlayStation Network (PSN) is Sony’s online gaming service that millions of users enjoy worldwide. A common question among users is whether they can change their PSN name after creating it.
Your PSN name, also known as your online ID, is your identity on the platform and appears to friends, other players, and in games that support it.
Understanding if and how you can change your PSN name is important for personalizing your gaming experience or correcting mistakes. This guide covers everything you need to know about changing your PSN name, including the process, costs, limitations, and potential risks.
What is a PSN Name (Online ID)?
Your PSN name, often called your Online ID, is the unique identifier you use on PlayStation Network. It is how your friends find you, how you represent yourself in multiplayer games, and how you connect with the PlayStation community.
When you first sign up for PSN, you must choose an Online ID that follows Sony’s guidelines. It can be changed, but with some restrictions and considerations.
Can You Change Your PSN Name?
Yes, you can change your PSN name. Sony introduced the ability to change your Online ID in April 2019 after years of users requesting this feature.
However, the service comes with specific rules, fees, and potential compatibility issues with some games. It’s important to understand these factors before proceeding.
“Changing your PSN Online ID is a simple process but should be done carefully to avoid losing access to game content or saving data linked to your original ID.” – Sony Support
How to Change Your PSN Name: Step-by-Step
You can change your PSN Online ID on a PlayStation console or through the official PlayStation website. The process is straightforward, but you must be aware of the associated costs and warnings.
On Your PlayStation Console (PS4 or PS5)
- Go to Settings on your console.
- Select Account Management.
- Choose Account Information.
- Click on Profile.
- Select Online ID to start the name change process.
- Enter your new desired Online ID.
- Follow the prompts to confirm your choice and complete the change.
Using the PlayStation Website
- Visit the official PlayStation Network website and log into your account.
- Go to your Profile.
- Click the Edit button next to your Online ID.
- Type your new Online ID and check its availability.
- Confirm and accept any warnings or terms.
Cost of Changing Your PSN Name
Sony offers the first PSN Online ID change for free. This means your first change will not incur any charges.
After the first free change, subsequent name changes will cost:
| Change Number | Cost for PS Plus Members | Cost for Non-PS Plus Members |
|---|---|---|
| First Change | Free | Free |
| Second and Onwards | $4.99 USD | $9.99 USD |
Prices may vary by region and currency, so it’s advisable to check the PlayStation Store for exact fees in your location.
Important Considerations Before Changing Your PSN Name
Changing your PSN Online ID can affect your gaming experience in several ways. Sony provides warnings to users before they finalize the change.
- Game Compatibility: Some older games may not support the new Online ID and could experience issues such as loss of progress, saved data, or in-game purchases.
- Profile Visibility: Your new Online ID will be visible to all your friends and other players.
- Previous ID Availability: Your old Online ID becomes available for others to claim after you change it, so it’s not guaranteed you can switch back later.
- Linked Accounts: Any linked accounts or services using your old Online ID might require updating.
“While most modern games support Online ID changes without issues, some legacy titles may experience unexpected behavior. Always review Sony’s list of tested games before making a change.” – PlayStation Help Center
Games Known to Have Issues with PSN Name Changes
Sony maintains a list of games tested against Online ID changes. Some games are fully compatible, while others may have partial or no support.
Below is a sample of common titles and their compatibility status:
| Game Title | Compatibility Status | Potential Issues |
|---|---|---|
| Call of Duty: Modern Warfare | Compatible | None reported |
| The Last of Us Remastered | Partially Compatible | Possible loss of game progress |
| Bloodborne | Not Compatible | Loss of access to in-game purchases |
| Final Fantasy XIV | Compatible | None reported |
| Skyrim Special Edition | Partially Compatible | Possible leaderboard resets |
This list is not exhaustive. Check the official PlayStation Online ID Change Support Page for the most up-to-date information.
How to Check if Your Desired New PSN Name is Available
When you enter a new Online ID during the change process, the system automatically checks if the name is available. If it’s taken, you will be prompted to try a variation or choose a different name.
Tips to create a unique Online ID:
- Use a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters allowed by Sony.
- Try adding numbers or underscores if your preferred name is taken.
- Be creative but keep it easy to remember.
Steps to Take After Changing Your PSN Online ID
After successfully changing your Online ID, consider the following to maintain your account and gaming experience:
- Inform Friends: Let your friends know about your new ID so they can find you easily.
- Update Linked Services: Update any third-party services or social media accounts linked to your PSN ID.
- Verify Game Data: Check your games, especially older titles, for any data or access issues.
- Backup Important Saves: It’s a good idea to back up save files regularly, especially before changing your Online ID.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can I revert to my old PSN Online ID? | Yes, you can revert back to your old ID for free, but only within 30 days of changing. After 30 days, reverting may incur the standard change fee. |
| Will my friends be notified when I change my Online ID? | No direct notification is sent, but your friends will see your new Online ID when you appear online or in their friends list. |
| Can I change my Online ID multiple times? | Yes, but after the first free change, each subsequent change costs a fee. |
| Will changing my Online ID affect my trophies? | No, trophies and progress remain linked to your account regardless of the Online ID. |
| Are there any restrictions on the new Online ID I can choose? | Yes, the new ID must comply with Sony’s terms of service and community guidelines, avoiding offensive or inappropriate content. |
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Changing Your PSN Online ID
- Ignoring Compatibility Warnings: Always check game compatibility before changing your ID to avoid losing access to content.
- Not Informing Friends: Sudden changes without communication can confuse friends trying to find you online.
- Reusing Problematic IDs: Avoid recycled or frequently changed IDs as they may be flagged or restricted.
- Choosing Offensive Names: Names violating Sony’s policies can lead to suspension or banning of your account.
Summary
Changing your PSN Online ID is now a flexible option that allows PlayStation users to personalize their identity on the network. The ability to change your name can help correct mistakes, update your branding, or reflect changes in your preferences.
However, it comes with some risks and costs. Carefully review Sony’s guidelines, check the compatibility of your favorite games, and plan your change accordingly to avoid any disruptions in your gaming experience.
Remember: Your first PSN name change is free, so take advantage of it wisely. Subsequent changes will cost a fee, so choose your new Online ID thoughtfully.
For the latest and official information, always visit the PlayStation Support Online ID Change Page.
