Sony Interactive Entertainment has announced the Play At Home initiative, made up of two components: first, to encourage PlayStation 4 owners to stay at home, and second, to help independent developers that may be facing financial struggles during the COVID-19 pandemic. The new initiative was announced by Sony Interactive Entertainment President and CEO Jim Ryan on the PlayStation blog.
“During these days of physical distancing, fans have turned to gaming for moments of respite and enjoyment,” Ryan said. “At Sony Interactive Entertainment, we are privileged to bring this much-needed entertainment. We know this is just one small step and we are thankful to be able to offer this support to our players, our communities, and our partners.”
The initiative will offer PS4 owners two free games — no PlayStation Plus required — to download: Uncharted: The Nathan Drake Collection and Journey. You can download the games from April 15 at 8pm PDT through May 5, 2020 at 8pm PDT, and once downloaded the games are yours to keep forever, no strings attached.
SIE has earmarked $10 million to support independent game developers, though there’s no details available at this time on what criteria will be required for studios and developers to apply for funding. Ryan tells us that more information on the fund will be made available soon.
“Independent developers are vital to the heart and soul of the gaming community and we understand the hardships and financial struggles that many smaller gaming studios are facing.” Ryan said.
Are you excited to get your two free games? Let us know down in the comments or hit me up on Twitter, @heyitsjjtravers.
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