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Changing Your PSN Name: A Comprehensive Guide

The question isn’t really about how long you can change your PSN name, but rather how many times. You can change your PlayStation Network (PSN) Online ID as many times as you like. The first time you make the change is free of charge. However, subsequent changes will incur a fee.

Let’s delve into the details of this process, the implications it may have, and address some common concerns you might have before taking the plunge.

Understanding PSN Name Changes

Changing your PSN name seems like a simple act, but it can have ramifications depending on the games you play and how frequently you make these changes. It’s important to be aware of the potential downsides before you commit to a new identity.

The Cost Factor

As mentioned, the initial change is free. For any subsequent changes, Sony charges a fee. This fee is typically around $10, though PlayStation Plus subscribers enjoy a discounted rate of approximately $5 per change. This pricing structure encourages users to choose their names carefully, avoiding frequent changes driven by whims.

The Potential Risks

While Sony has worked to mitigate problems associated with changing your PSN name, there remain some potential risks, primarily related to older games.

Data Loss: There is a chance you may lose progress within games, including game saved data, leaderboard data, and progress toward Trophies.
Functionality Issues: Parts of your game and applications may not function properly, both online and offline. This is more common in older titles that weren’t designed with PSN name changes in mind.
Content Access: You might lose access to content (including paid-for content) you acquired for your games, like add-ons and virtual currency.

Sony maintains a list of games known to have issues after a PSN name change. Before changing your name, it’s worth checking this list to see if any of your frequently played games are affected.

The Visibility Factor

Even after changing your PSN name, your previous Online ID may remain visible to you and other players in some areas, particularly within older games or services that haven’t been fully updated. This can sometimes cause confusion for your friends and other players.

The Time Factor

It may take some time for all applications and services to reflect your new Online ID. In some cases, it can take up to a week for the change to fully propagate across the PlayStation Network. If your new Online ID isn’t appearing after a week, you should contact PlayStation Support.

Creating a Suitable PSN Name

Choosing the right PSN name is important as it represents you in the gaming world. It needs to adhere to certain rules and restrictions.

Name Requirements

The Online ID must be between 3 and 16 characters long.
It can consist of letters, numbers, hyphens (-), and underscores (_).
It must start with a letter.
Offensive words and terms are prohibited.

Avoiding Offence

Your PSN name is publicly visible, so it’s crucial to avoid anything that could cause offense to others. Sony actively monitors PSN names and may force you to change your name if it violates their terms of service.

The Temporary ID

If you create a new PSN ID and choose something offensive, you might be assigned a “TempXXXX” ID until you select a more appropriate name.

How to Change Your PSN Name on PS4 or PS5

The process for changing your PSN name is relatively straightforward. Here’s a general overview:

On Your PS4: Go to [Settings] > [Account Management] > [Account Information] > [Profile] > [Online ID].
On Your PS5: Go to [Settings] > [Users and Accounts] > [Account] > [Profile] > [Online ID].
Follow the on-screen instructions to enter a new Online ID. You’ll be able to see if the name is available before committing to the change.
Review the potential risks and implications of changing your Online ID.
Confirm your new Online ID and complete the process.

Reverting to a Previous PSN Name

If you’re unhappy with your new PSN name, you can usually revert to a previous one. Sony allows you to change back to your original PSN ID, provided it doesn’t violate the Terms of Service. You can do this through PlayStation Support.

The Importance of Community and Games Learning

Choosing a PSN name also impacts how you interact within the gaming community. A recognizable and respectful name can foster positive interactions, while an offensive or confusing name can lead to negative experiences. Games Learning Society underscores the value of positive gaming communities and promoting responsible online behavior. Explore more about the value of games for learning and community at GamesLearningSociety.org.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 15 frequently asked questions about changing your PSN name:

How much does it cost to change my PSN name? The first change is free. Subsequent changes cost $10, or $5 for PlayStation Plus subscribers.
Will I lose my trophies if I change my PSN name? There’s a potential risk of losing progress towards trophies, but it’s not guaranteed. Older games are more likely to be affected.
Will my friends recognize me after I change my PSN name? People familiar with your previous PSN ID may not immediately recognize you. It’s a good idea to inform your friends and gaming communities about the change.
How long does it take for the PSN name change to take effect? It can take up to a week for the changes to fully propagate across all services.
Can I change back to my old PSN name if I don’t like the new one? Yes, you can revert to your original PSN ID as long as it doesn’t violate the Terms of Service.
Are there any games that have known issues with PSN name changes? Yes, Sony maintains a list of games known to have issues. Check their support website for the most up-to-date list.
What happens if my new PSN name is offensive? You may be assigned a temporary ID (“TempXXXX”) and required to choose a different name.
How long can my PSN name be? Your PSN name must be between 3 and 16 characters.
What characters are allowed in a PSN name? Letters, numbers, hyphens (-), and underscores (_). It must start with a letter.
Can I change my child’s PSN name? Currently, children’s PSN names cannot be changed.
What is considered an offensive PSN ID? Any name that violates the PlayStation Network Terms of Service, including those that are hateful, discriminatory, or sexually explicit.
Will changing my PSN name affect my purchases? There’s a potential risk of losing access to purchased content, especially in older games.
Why is my old gamertag still showing up? This can happen in older games or services that haven’t fully updated.
How do I contact PlayStation Support if I have issues with my PSN name change? Visit the PlayStation Support website and follow the prompts to submit a support request.
Can I name my PS5 itself? The ability to name your PS5 system itself isn’t the same as your PSN ID, but you can usually customize the device’s name within your network settings.

Conclusion

Changing your PSN name offers flexibility, but it’s crucial to be aware of the potential risks and implications. By understanding the costs, limitations, and best practices outlined above, you can make informed decisions and ensure a smooth transition to your new online identity. Remember to always consider the impact your name has on the community and strive to create a positive and respectful gaming environment.

How long can you change your PSN name?