PlayStation Plus (PS Plus) is Sony’s subscription service that unlocks multiplayer gaming, free monthly games, exclusive discounts, and cloud storage for PlayStation users. Many players often wonder if they can change their PS Plus name, which is essentially their PlayStation Network (PSN) Online ID.
This article explores the possibilities, limitations, and detailed steps on how to change your PS Plus name, including important considerations before you do so.
Understanding Your PS Plus Name
First, it is crucial to clarify what your PS Plus name actually is. The name you see on PS Plus, your friends’ lists, leaderboards, and in-game, is your PSN Online ID.
This ID is unique to your PlayStation account and serves as your identity across the PlayStation Network.
Changing your PS Plus name means changing your PSN Online ID. It’s not just a cosmetic update; it affects how you are recognized by other players and can have implications for your online experience.
“Your PS Plus name is your PlayStation Network Online ID, and changing it changes how the world sees you in games and online.”
Can You Change Your PS Plus Name?
Yes, you can change your PS Plus name, i.e., your PSN Online ID. Sony introduced this feature in April 2019 after years of customer demand.
Before 2019, PSN Online IDs were permanent and could not be altered. Now, you can change your ID from the PlayStation console or via the web.
However, there are some important things to know:
- You can change your online ID once for free.
- Subsequent changes require a fee.
- Some older games may have issues displaying your new ID.
- Your friends will see your new ID, and your old ID can be shown as a secondary name if you choose.
Pricing for Changing PSN Online ID
| Change Number | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| First Change | Free | One-time free change per account |
| Subsequent Changes | $9.99 | Standard fee for each change after the first |
| PlayStation Plus Members | $4.99 | Discounted fee for PS Plus subscribers |
How to Change Your PS Plus Name (PSN Online ID)
Changing your PS Plus name is straightforward. You can do this on your PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, or via the web browser.
Here are step-by-step instructions:
On PlayStation 5
- Navigate to Settings from the home screen.
- Select Users and Accounts.
- Choose Account > Profile.
- Click on your current Online ID.
- Select Edit next to your Online ID.
- Enter your new desired Online ID and check availability.
- Follow the prompts to confirm and finalize the change.
On PlayStation 4
- Go to Settings from the main menu.
- Choose Account Management.
- Select Account Information > Profile.
- Click on Online ID.
- Enter your new ID and check if it is available.
- Accept the terms and confirm the change.
Via Web Browser
- Go to the PlayStation Online ID Change page.
- Sign in with your PlayStation account credentials.
- Enter your new Online ID and check availability.
- Review any warnings or messages about compatibility.
- Confirm your choice and complete the process.
Important Considerations Before Changing Your PS Plus Name
Changing your PS Plus name sounds simple, but there are several factors to consider before you proceed. Sony warns that some games and applications might not support the new Online ID, which can result in:
- Loss of in-game progress or saved data.
- Loss of access to paid content or DLC.
- Display issues where the old ID may appear instead of the new one.
- Friends list and leaderboard inconsistencies.
It is highly recommended to check the official list of tested games to see if your favorite titles are compatible.
What Happens to Your Old Online ID?
After changing your PSN Online ID, your old ID becomes available for other users to claim. You can opt to display your old Online ID next to your new one for 30 days, so friends can recognize you during the transition.
Note: Your old Online ID might be visible in some games and services for up to 30 days after the change.
Pros and Cons of Changing Your PS Plus Name
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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Tips for Choosing a New PS Plus Name
Picking a new Online ID is exciting but can be tricky because it must be unique and follow Sony’s guidelines. Here are some tips to help you choose wisely:
- Keep it appropriate: Avoid offensive or inappropriate language.
- Make it memorable: Choose something easy for friends to remember.
- Check availability: Use the availability checker on the ID change page.
- Avoid frequent changes: Each change after the first costs money and may risk compatibility.
- Consider future-proofing: Pick a name you’ll be happy with long-term.
Common Questions About Changing PS Plus Name
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is changing my PSN Online ID permanent? | No. You can change it multiple times, but after the first free change, each change has a fee. |
| Will my friends lose me if I change my name? | No. Your friends will see your new ID, and you can choose to display your old ID for 30 days. |
| Can I revert to my old Online ID? | Yes, you can revert to a previously used ID for free at any time. |
| Will I lose access to games or content? | There is a small chance with some older titles. It is best to check game compatibility beforehand. |
| Does changing my PSN ID affect PlayStation Plus subscription? | No. Your subscription and account data remain intact. |
How to Protect Yourself from Issues When Changing Your PS Plus Name
Since there are risks involved with changing your PSN Online ID, it’s important to take precautions:
- Back up your saved data: Use cloud storage or USB backups to secure game progress.
- Check game compatibility: Look at Sony’s official list before changing your ID.
- Inform your friends: Let your friends know about the change to avoid confusion.
- Test your new ID: Play your favorite games and check for issues immediately after the change.
Summary
Yes, you can change your PS Plus name because it is linked to your PlayStation Network Online ID. Sony allows one free change with subsequent changes incurring a fee.
Changing your PSN ID updates your online identity but may cause compatibility issues with some older games.
Before changing, review game compatibility, back up your data, and choose a name you’ll be happy with long-term. The process is easy and can be done directly from your console or online.
Keeping these points in mind will ensure a smooth transition and a refreshed gaming identity without unexpected problems.
