If you have ever purchased a download code at a retailer anywhere in the world and redeemed it on the PSN to download your game then that is about to end. Sony has confirmed that retailers will no longer be selling digital download codes for PS4 starting on 1 April 2019.
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The speculation began after American game retailer, GameStop, received a memo from Sony about the news that retailers will no longer receive these codes from next month. However, PSN currency will still be sold, just no more game codes.
The Verge then confirmed the news after reaching out to Sony. “We can confirm that as of April 1, 2019, Sony Interactive Entertainment will no longer offer full games through SIE’s Global Digital at Retail program. This decision was made in order to continue to align key businesses globally. To support full games and premium editions, SIE will introduce increased denominations at select retailers. DLC, add-ons, virtual currency, and season passes will still be available.”
GameStop stores just got a memo saying that Sony will no longer provide full game digital download codes to retailers (not just GameStop) starting April 1st. Digital games will only be available straight from PSN after that date. Add-on content/PSN $ cards will still be available
— Wario64 (@Wario64) March 22, 2019
Sony seems to be also increasing the current virtual currency amounts that will be available in store in order to allow players who want to purchase more expensive digital versions of games the ability to do so. You will just have to complete the purchase online through the PSN by adding the funds to your account and buying the game instead of directly redeeming the game through the purchased code.
Sony will release Days Gone and Mortal Kombat 11 download codes for retailers in the US but only for a week after launch. After that, they will no longer be available. Sony suggests users stick to retail copies for games which they wanted as digital codes.
In SA, a few retailers and online stores such as Raru and BT Games sell the game codes which are emailed to you. We have reached out to PlayStation SA to see how this change will impact local stores and whether or not we will still receive game codes. We will update you as soon as we hear back.
