Many PlayStation 4 users wonder if it is possible to change their gamertag or online ID after they have already created their account. The gamertag, also known as your PlayStation Network (PSN) Online ID, is the name that other players see when you play games online.
This identity is important because it represents you in the gaming community and can affect how you are perceived by others.
In this article, we will explore whether you can change your gamertag on PS4, how to do it, the cost involved, and potential risks or limitations associated with changing your PSN Online ID.
What is a PSN Online ID or Gamertag?
Your PSN Online ID is the unique identifier you use when playing games, chatting with friends, or interacting with the PlayStation Network ecosystem. It is visible to all players you encounter online, making it a vital part of your gaming persona.
When you create your PSN account, you choose an ID that is permanent by default. However, games and social expectations evolve, and you might want to change your Online ID to better reflect your current identity or preferences.
Can You Change Your Gamertag on PS4?
Yes, you can change your PSN Online ID (gamertag) on the PS4. Sony introduced the ability to change your Online ID in April 2019, after years of users requesting this feature.
This allows players to update their gamertag to something new without having to create a new PSN account.
Changing your Online ID is straightforward but involves some important considerations, including potential fees and compatibility issues with older games.
Important Facts About Changing Your PSN Online ID
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| First Change | Free of charge |
| Subsequent Changes | $9.99 USD per change (or local equivalent) |
| Compatibility | Most PS4 games support ID change; some older titles may experience issues |
| Display | Old ID shown in brackets for 30 days after change (optional to show) |
| Reverting | You can revert to a previous ID for free |
How to Change Your PSN Online ID on PS4
The process to change your gamertag on your PS4 is simple and can be done directly through the console or via a web browser. Follow the steps below to update your Online ID:
Changing PSN Online ID on PS4 Console
- Turn on your PS4 and sign in to your account.
- Navigate to Settings from the main menu.
- Select Account Management, then choose Account Information.
- Click on Profile, then select Online ID.
- Enter the new Online ID you want to use.
- The system will check if the ID is available. If yes, proceed to confirm the change.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the change.
Changing PSN Online ID via Web Browser
- Open your preferred web browser and visit the PlayStation Online ID Change page.
- Sign in using your PSN credentials.
- Enter your desired new Online ID.
- If available, confirm the change following the prompts.
Note: If it’s your first time changing your Online ID, the process is free. Otherwise, you will be prompted to pay the applicable fee.
Costs Associated with Changing Your Gamertag
The first time you change your PSN Online ID, it is completely free. This policy encourages users to correct typos or update their ID without penalty.
If you want to change your ID again after the first free change, Sony charges a fee for each subsequent change. The fees vary by region but are approximately:
| Region | Fee Per Change |
|---|---|
| United States | $9.99 USD |
| Europe | €8.99 EUR |
| United Kingdom | £6.99 GBP |
| Japan | ￥1,000 JPY |
Payments can be made using your linked payment method on your PlayStation account.
Risks and Limitations of Changing Your PSN Online ID
While changing your Online ID is convenient, there are some risks and limitations that you should be aware of before proceeding.
“Changing your PSN Online ID may cause some older games to behave unexpectedly, including loss of saved data, progress, or access to paid content.”
Game Compatibility Issues
Most modern PS4 games support Online ID changes without problems. However, some older titles released before April 2018 may not recognize the new ID properly.
This can result in issues such as:
- Loss of access to game progress or saved data
- Loss of access to paid DLC or in-game content
- Multiplayer connectivity problems
Sony provides a list of tested titles to help users identify which games are fully compatible with Online ID changes.
Displaying Your Previous Online ID
For 30 days after changing your Online ID, your previous ID will be displayed in parentheses next to your new ID. This helps your friends and other players recognize you despite the change.
If you prefer not to display your old ID, you can disable this feature from your privacy settings. After the 30-day period, the old ID will no longer be visible to others.
Reverting to a Previous Online ID
If you encounter any problems or simply want to go back to your old Online ID, you can revert to any previous ID you have used. This reversion is free of charge and can help resolve issues related to game compatibility or community recognition.
Tips for Choosing a New PSN Online ID
Before changing your gamertag, consider the following tips to choose a name you will be happy with long-term:
- Keep it simple and memorable: Avoid overly complex or long names.
- Check availability: Use the ID check tool to ensure your desired name is free.
- Avoid offensive or inappropriate terms: Sony may restrict or ban offensive IDs.
- Use consistent branding: If you are a streamer or content creator, consider using the same name across platforms.
- Think about longevity: Choose a name that will age well with your gaming experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can I change my PSN Online ID on PS5? | Yes, the process is similar on PS5 and can also be done online through the PlayStation website. |
| Will my friends be notified when I change my ID? | No automatic notifications are sent, but your old ID is visible for 30 days to help recognition. |
| Can I change my Online ID to an ID that someone else is using? | No, IDs must be unique and available for use. |
| What happens if I change my Online ID and experience game issues? | You can revert to your old ID free of charge or contact PlayStation Support for help. |
| Does changing my Online ID affect my trophies? | No, trophies and account data remain linked to your account regardless of ID changes. |
Conclusion
Changing your gamertag or PSN Online ID on PS4 is now a supported feature that allows greater flexibility and personalization for gamers. The first change is free, while subsequent changes incur a small fee.
It is important to be aware of potential compatibility issues with older games before making a change.
By carefully selecting your new Online ID and understanding the implications, you can refresh your PlayStation identity without losing access to your games, friends, and progress. Always check the compatibility of your favorite games and consider how your new name will represent you within the PlayStation community.
Ready to change your PSN Online ID? Follow the steps above and enjoy a fresh identity on your PS4!
