PlayStation 4 users often wonder if they can change their PSN (PlayStation Network) online ID, commonly referred to as their “PS4 name.” This question has been a hot topic since Sony introduced the feature to change online IDs.
In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about changing your PS4 name, how it works, its limitations, and the possible risks involved.
What Is Your PS4 Name?
Your PS4 name is actually your PlayStation Network online ID. It is the username that other players see when you play games, chat, or participate in the PlayStation community.
This ID is also part of your profile and is how you identify yourself on PlayStation consoles and services.
Traditionally, once you created your PSN online ID, it was permanent. Sony did not allow users to change it, which caused frustration for many who wanted to rebrand or fix typos.
Thankfully, that has changed.
Can You Change Your PS4 Name Yet?
Yes, you can now change your PS4 online ID. Sony officially launched the option to change your PSN online ID in April 2019.
This means both PS4 and PS5 users have the ability to update their online names.
This update was highly anticipated and is available directly through your PlayStation console, website, or mobile app. However, there are some important details and limitations to be aware of before making the switch.
“Changing your PSN online ID is a great way to refresh your identity on PlayStation Network, but it comes with some risks and restrictions you should know.”
How to Change Your PS4 Online ID
Changing your PS4 name is relatively straightforward. Below is a simple step-by-step guide to help you:
| Step | Instruction |
|---|---|
| 1 | Go to Settings on your PS4 home screen. |
| 2 | Select Account Management, then Account Information. |
| 3 | Choose Profile and then Online ID. |
| 4 | Enter your new desired online ID and check availability. |
| 5 | If available, confirm the change and accept the terms. |
| 6 | Complete the process by finalizing the payment if you are not eligible for a free change. |
You can also perform this process via the PlayStation website or the PlayStation App on your smartphone.
Is Changing Your PS4 Name Free?
The first online ID change is free. If you have never changed your PSN name before, you can update it without any charges.
However, any subsequent changes will cost you:
- $9.99 USD per change.
- $4.99 USD if you are a PlayStation Plus subscriber.
This pricing policy encourages users to choose their new IDs wisely. Remember, frequent changes come at a cost.
Compatibility and Risks of Changing Your PS4 Name
While changing your PS4 name is easier than ever, it does come with some potential compatibility issues and risks. Not all games support the online ID change feature perfectly.
Older games, especially those released before April 2018, may experience issues such as:
- Loss of game progress or saved data.
- In-game purchases may disappear or become inaccessible.
- Multiplayer connectivity problems.
- Other unexpected glitches or errors.
Modern games, released after April 2018, generally support online ID changes without issues. Sony has worked closely with developers to implement this compatibility.
“Before changing your PSN online ID, review Sony’s compatibility list to avoid losing content or progress in your favorite games.”
Games That May Have Issues
Sony maintains a list of games tested for online ID changes. You can check whether your favorite titles are affected or fully compatible.
How to Avoid Problems When Changing Your PS4 Name
To minimize risks, follow these recommendations before changing your online ID:
- Backup your save data: Use cloud storage or USB backups to safeguard progress.
- Check game compatibility: Visit Sony’s official list to confirm that your games support ID changes.
- Notify friends and communities: Let your friends know about the new ID to avoid confusion.
- Use a unique but familiar name: This reduces the chance of impersonation or confusion.
What Happens to Your Old PS4 Name?
After changing your PSN online ID, your old online ID does not become immediately available for others. Sony has kept a quarantine period to prevent impersonation and confusion.
Additionally, your old ID may be displayed in parentheses next to your new ID for some time, especially in games that have not yet fully adapted to online ID changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can I change my PS4 name multiple times? | Yes, after your first free change, you can change your online ID as many times as you want, but each change will incur a fee. |
| Will my trophies be affected by the name change? | No, all trophies and progression remain intact regardless of your PSN online ID change. |
| Can my friends still find me after I change my name? | Yes, your friends can find you by your new online ID. Your old ID may appear temporarily in parentheses in certain games. |
| What should I do if a game doesn’t support the new online ID? | You may want to keep your old ID or check with the game developer for updates or patches to support the change. |
Conclusion
Changing your PS4 name is now possible and accessible for all PlayStation Network users. The feature provides flexibility and freedom to personalize your gaming identity.
However, it is essential to understand the risks, especially regarding game compatibility and possible data loss.
Always perform due diligence by backing up your data and checking Sony’s official compatibility list before proceeding. By doing so, you can enjoy the benefits of a fresh online ID with minimal issues.
Whether you want to correct a typo, rebrand, or just try something new, changing your PS4 name is a great way to refresh your presence on the PlayStation Network.
