PlayStation Network (PSN) online IDs are a key part of your gaming identity. Whether you want to change your username for a fresh start or fix a typo, Sony has made it possible.
However, many players wonder: can I change my PSN name back to a previous one? This article will explore everything you need to know about changing your PSN online ID, including reverting to a former name, the rules, costs, and potential issues.
Understanding PSN Online IDs
Your PSN online ID is your public-facing username on PlayStation consoles and services. It is how friends recognize you in games, leaderboards, and social features.
Originally, PlayStation IDs were permanent, but since April 2019, Sony introduced the option to change your online ID.
This feature allows more flexibility but also introduces some considerations. The ability to change your ID back to a previous name is one of the most common concerns among players who experiment with new identities.
“Your online ID is your identity in the PlayStation community. Choose wisely and be aware of the implications of changing it.”
Can You Change Your PSN Name Back to a Previous ID?
The short answer is: yes, you can change your PSN name back to a previous ID, provided that the old ID is still available. Sony allows users to revert to any ID they have previously used.
When you change your online ID, your old ID becomes available for anyone to claim after a certain period. There is no guarantee that you will be able to reclaim it if someone else takes it.
Therefore, the ability to “change your PSN name back” depends on whether the previous ID is still unclaimed on the network.
How to Change Your PSN Name Back
- Go to your PlayStation account settings on your console or the web.
- Navigate to Profile > Online ID.
- Enter your previous online ID that you want to revert to.
- Check availability and confirm the change.
If the ID is available, you can switch back immediately. If not, you will have to choose a different ID.
Important Considerations When Reverting Your PSN Name
Changing your PSN online ID back to a previous name is not always a straightforward process. There are important details to consider before making the switch.
- Availability: Your old ID may have been taken by another user once you changed it.
- Game Compatibility: Some games released before April 2019 may not fully support online ID changes, which can cause loss of progress or issues when switching IDs.
- Costs: The first online ID change is free, but subsequent changes, including reverting, may incur a fee.
- Profile and Friends: Changing your online ID does not affect your friends list or trophies, but your friends may see your old ID next to your new one for 30 days.
Note: Always review Sony’s official guidelines before changing your online ID to avoid any unintended consequences.
How Much Does It Cost to Change Your PSN Name?
Sony’s pricing policy for changing your online ID is as follows:
| Change Type | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| First Online ID Change | Free | Available once per account. |
| Subsequent Changes (PS Plus Members) | $4.99 | Discounted price for PlayStation Plus subscribers. |
| Subsequent Changes (Non-PS Plus Members) | $9.99 | Standard price for regular accounts. |
If you want to change your PSN name back to a previous one after the first free change, you will likely have to pay the applicable fee.
What Happens to Your Gameplay and Data When You Change Your Online ID?
Sony has worked to make online ID changes as seamless as possible. However, there are some risks and impacts to be aware of:
- Trophies and Friends: These remain intact and will follow your new ID.
- Game Data Compatibility: Some older games may not recognize the changed ID, potentially causing issues such as loss of saved data, leaderboards, or in-game purchases linked to your old ID.
- Game-Specific Support: Sony maintains a list of games that have known issues with online ID changes.
Warning: If you revert to a previous ID, these issues could resurface, especially if your old ID was associated with certain game progress.
What Should You Do If Your Old PSN Name Is Taken?
Sometimes, after changing your PSN name, your original ID might be claimed by another user. This means you cannot revert to it directly.
In this scenario, your options include:
- Choose a new, unique online ID.
- Contact Sony Support to see if any recovery options exist (rare and usually only in cases of impersonation or abuse).
- Consider modifying your old ID slightly with numbers or characters to resemble your original.
It’s important to act quickly if you want to reclaim your old ID, as once it’s taken, it might be unavailable indefinitely.
Step-by-Step Guide: Changing Your PSN Online ID Back
Follow these steps to attempt changing your PSN name back to a previous ID:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Sign in to your PlayStation Network account on a browser or console. |
| 2 | Navigate to Account Settings > Profile > Online ID. |
| 3 | Enter your previous online ID into the field and check its availability. |
| 4 | If available, confirm the change and pay any applicable fees. |
| 5 | Review any warnings about game compatibility. |
| 6 | Complete the process and restart your console if necessary. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I switch back to my old PSN name for free?
A: The first online ID change is free. If you have used that free change already, reverting to an old ID will likely cost $4.99 for PS Plus members or $9.99 for others.
Q2: Will my friends see my old online ID after I change it back?
A: For 30 days after any change, your old ID will be displayed next to your new one, so friends can recognize you.
Q3: What if my old online ID is no longer available?
A: You cannot claim an ID that someone else has taken. You will need to pick a new ID or contact Sony Support if you believe the claim is abusive.
Q4: Will changing my PSN name back affect my saved games?
A: Most modern games support ID changes without issues. However, some older games may not, and you could lose access to some data or content.
Q5: How often can I change my PSN online ID?
A: There is no hard limit on how often you can change it, but each change after the first free one costs money.
Tips for Choosing a New PSN Online ID
If you cannot get your old ID back, or want a fresh start, here are tips to pick a great new PSN name:
- Keep It Simple: Easy to remember and spell.
- Be Unique: Avoid common names that are likely taken.
- Consider Longevity: Choose something you won’t want to change frequently.
- Check Availability: Use Sony’s online checker before settling.
- Avoid Personal Info: Keep your privacy by not including real names or sensitive details.
Summary
Changing your PSN online ID back to a previous one is possible but depends heavily on availability. If your old ID is still free, you can reclaim it by following the official steps.
Remember that the first change is free, but reverting later may cost you money. Additionally, be aware of potential game compatibility issues, especially with older titles.
To safeguard your gaming identity, think carefully before changing your PSN name and keep track of your old IDs in case you want to revert later. If your old ID has been taken, you may need to create a new identity or contact Sony Support for exceptional cases.
Final Thought: Your PSN online ID is more than just a name — it’s your gaming persona. Make changes thoughtfully to enjoy a smooth experience across PlayStation’s ecosystem.
For the most current information, always check the official PlayStation Support page.
