Sony has quietly launched a 'Wallet Credit' program on the PS Store, offering users $10 in store credit after purchasing select games. This move appears to replace the cancelled PlayStation Stars loyalty program, though it has not been officially announced by Sony.
In an exclusive interview, former Sony Interactive Entertainment SVP Gordon Thornton argues that a disc-free, all-digital PlayStation era is inevitable as Sony moves away from physical releases after January 2028. He notes the PlayStation Store already commands roughly 80–85% of the market and physical retail is waning, and urges loyalty programs to evolve by tightly tying rewards to in-game mechanics and even real-money rewards. Thornton cautions against copying generic loyalty formulas and points to success stories (e.g., ZBD/TapNation) that boosted retention and revenue, while explaining that publishers set MSRPs and Sony doesn’t unilaterally control pricing. The interview frames a shift toward digital ecosystems that maximize lifetime value, even as the industry puzzles over price and accessibility in a rapidly digital landscape.
PlayStation users can now download a free Kratos-inspired enamel pin by joining the PlayStation Stars loyalty program, without needing a PlayStation Plus subscription. This comes as part of the celebration following the announcement of God of War Ragnarök's upcoming PC port release in September.
Sony's PlayStation Stars program will soon be integrated into the PS5 system software, as indicated by the Privacy Settings menu. The integration will allow players to control who can see their PlayStation Stars level and display case. The program offers loyalty points that can be exchanged for various items, including PSN wallet funds and select PlayStation Store products. Sony aims to develop the program further in the future.