Days Gone Remastered was a highlight of Sony's recent State of Play showcase, yet it has stirred frustration among some PlayStation Plus subscribers due to its $10 upgrade policy.
Sony has clarified that the $10 upgrade to the PlayStation 5 remastered version is exclusively available to those who already own the PlayStation 4 disc or a digital copy of Days Gone. Unfortunately, this means that players who obtained the game through the PS Plus subscription service, including those who redeemed it from the now-defunct PS Plus Collection or as an Essential monthly game in April 2021, are ineligible for the discounted upgrade. Instead, they must purchase the full PS5 version at $49.99.
The restriction on the $10 upgrade has led to a wave of discontent among PS Plus subscribers, many of whom have taken to online forums to express their frustration. A notable example is a post on the PlayStation Plus subreddit, where numerous subscribers have voiced their disappointment. They argue that they would have willingly paid the $10 to experience the PS5 remaster but are unwilling to pay the full price for the game.
User squarejellyfish_ suggested that Sony could have earned a significant amount if PS Plus players were allowed to upgrade, as many might have paid the $10 just to try the game for a short period. Similarly, teckn9ne79 stated they would pay for the upgrade but not for a full purchase, choosing to stick with their existing PS4 version. Dredizzle99 labeled the decision as "pretty stupid," pointing out that many PS Plus subscribers feel the same way, potentially leading Sony to miss out on numerous upgrade sales.
Jackanyon95 criticized the move as "awkward," arguing that Sony is essentially cutting out half of the game's owner base who received it for free and would have been willing to pay an additional $10. They also questioned the need for a remaster of the game.
Those who own Days Gone via PS Plus miss out on the $10 upgrade. Image credit: Sony Interactive Entertainment.
Despite the backlash, some PS Plus subscribers have acknowledged that Sony's decision might be driven by financial considerations, suggesting the company likely analyzed the potential revenue from different scenarios. Nonetheless, Sony is facing criticism from its loyal fanbase, who are calling the company "stingy" for not extending the same generosity to PS Plus subscribers.
While Days Gone Remastered has sparked debate, it was not the only announcement at Sony's State of Play. For a comprehensive overview of all the reveals, check out IGN's State of Play February 2025 roundup.