Sony has confirmed that the DRM policy for both the PS4 and PS5 involves a "one-time check"

Sony recently addressed questions regarding the digital rights management (DRM) process for digital games on the PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 platforms. According to a Sony spokesperson speaking with Game File, users only need to perform a single DRM check after initially purchasing a game to verify its license. Following this verification, no further checks are required to continue playing.

This statement comes in the context of rumors suggesting that PlayStation would impose a 30-day timer on digital game licenses, which prompted concerns among PlayStation users over potential access issues should their consoles remain offline or Sony's servers become inaccessible. More details surfaced through ResetEra user Andshrew, revealing that completing an online license check within 15 days would secure a permanent license.

Andshrew hypothesized that this timing overlaps with PlayStation Network's 14-day refund policy, indicating possible misuse, where individuals might exploit the system by obtaining an indefinite license before seeking a refund for a game.

Eurogamer pointed out that a dead CMOS battery in a console could still lead to problems with license validation, although this issue has been previously tackled by updated firmware on newer PlayStation models.

These concerns echo past controversies such as when Microsoft announced DRM policies with the Xbox One in 2013, which initially required an always-online connection. The backlash was significant, leading Microsoft to revoke these requirements swiftly, alongside lifting restrictions on sharing physical game copies.