The idea of PlayStation games being available on PC was once a distant dream for many gamers. Traditionally, PlayStation consoles were the exclusive domain for experiencing the latest titles from PlayStation Studios.
However, in recent years, Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE) has begun dipping its toes into the PC market, bringing some of its most popular franchises to a new audience. This shift in strategy has been met with excitement from PC gamers who can now experience PlayStation exclusives alongside their existing library.
This foray into PC gaming by SIE goes beyond simple porting of titles. With the launch of Ghost of Tsushima Director’s Cut on PC in May 2024, Sony introduced a new feature specifically designed for its PC audience: the PlayStation PC overlay. This overlay marks a significant evolution in SIE’s approach to PC gaming, offering a unique experience that blends the familiar elements of the PlayStation ecosystem with the functionalities of a PC platform.
How does PlayStation PC overlay work?
The PlayStation PC overlay acts as a central hub for PlayStation features within PC games. Accessible through the in-game menu or a keyboard shortcut (Shift + F1), the overlay provides a range of functionalities for players. Here’s a breakdown of its key aspects:
- PSN integration: The overlay allows players to sign in to their existing PlayStation Network (PSN) account or create a new one if they haven’t already. This integration brings the PSN experience to PC, enabling features like:
- Trophy tracking: For the first time on PC, players can now earn and track Trophies in PlayStation Studios titles. Trophies, the PlayStation equivalent of achievements, serve as a way to showcase accomplishments and progress within games. The overlay displays the Trophy list for the current game, allowing players to see their progress and what challenges lie ahead.
- Friends list management: Players can access their PSN friends list through the overlay. This allows them to see which friends are online and what games they’re currently playing, fostering a sense of community even when playing on PC.
- Basic settings management: The overlay provides access to some basic settings adjustments. Players can manage their privacy options, block unwanted players, and view notifications within the overlay itself. While the range of settings available might be limited compared to the full functionality on PlayStation consoles, it offers a convenient way to manage essential preferences directly within the PC game.
Check it out from the post of PlayStation UK on X:
PlayStation. Trophies. On. PC.
Ghost of Tsushima Director’s Cut is the first PlayStation game on PC that uses our new PlayStation overlay, which includes your Friends list, Trophies, Settings and Profile. This feature is available on Windows PCs and accessed via in-game menu. pic.twitter.com/MbNomoBQNF
— PlayStation UK (@PlayStationUK) April 17, 2024
The introduction of the PlayStation PC overlay signifies a deeper commitment by SIE to the PC gaming market. It demonstrates a willingness to bridge the gap between PlayStation and PC experiences, offering features that resonate with PlayStation users while adapting to the PC platform.
Featured image credit: Julian Hochgesang/Unsplash
