Sony will not close PS3 and PS Vita stores; Horizon Zero Dawn now free on PS4, and PS5
Besides PS3 and PS Vita users, PSP owners will not get any respite from the PlayStation Store closure. Here is everything we know about the continuation of the Store on PS3, PS Vita, and the free copy of Horizon Zero Dawn.
Sony has just reversed its previous decision regarding closing down the PlayStation Store on its PS3 and PS Vita consoles. This reversal came weeks after the company first shared the decision to close down the store on the global stage. As part of this new announcement, the company admitted that it “made the wrong decision here”. Sony stated that the PlayStation Store will continue to work on both these consoles to support owners and game developers.
Besides PS3 and PS Vita users, PSP owners will not get any respite from the PlayStation Store closure. Sony has also added Horizon Zero Dawn to its Play at Home program for PS4 and PS5 users. As previously noted, the company is offering select games for free as part of the second iteration of this program. Here is everything we know about the continuation of the PlayStation Store on PS3 and Vita with free Horizon Zero Dawn.
Sony to continue PlayStation Store on PS3 and PS Vita
As we noted above, widespread backlash from gamers pushed Sony to reverse its decision. However, the Store on PSP will continue with its shut-down date of July 2, 2021. Jim Ryan, the President, and CEO for Sony Interactive Entertainment also went on to explain the rationale behind the move. Ryan stated that the company made the initial decision due to several factors including “commerce support challenges for older devices”. The company hoped to reallocate the resources to focus on the commerce experience on newer devices including the PS4 lineup, and the PS5 series.
Sony did not outline an expiry date for the PlayStation Store on PS3 and PS Vita. However, it did note that the company will continue to support these devices “for the foreseeable future”. Ryan also thanked gamers for their feedback regarding the initial decision. Finally, the company also reaffirmed that it would continue to listen to the opinions of its users, and it appreciates the community support.
Play at Home program now offers Horizon Zero Dawn for free
Alongside the reversal of its decision around the closure of the PlayStation Store of PS3 and PS Vita, Sony also added a new game to its Play at Home program. Now, PS4 and PS5 owners can claim a free copy of Horizon Zero Dawn to their library. This game is available as part of the initiative till May 14. It is worth noting that the “Complete Edition” of the game also includes “Frozen Wilds” expansion along with extra skins, resources, and weapons. The inclusion of Horizon Zero Dawn follows the March announcement which offered nine games to PS5 and PS4 users as part of the program.