Entertainment · Gaming · 8 hrs ago
Why a padlock appears on PS5 games and how to restore access
A padlock over a game in a PlayStation 5 library means the console cannot currently verify that you can play it.
Digital purchases are licenses to download and play, rather than permanent ownership rights, and access can fail if authentication goes wrong or a license is withdrawn.
First, check that you are signed into the account that bought the game and that PlayStation Network is online.
If the game came through PlayStation Plus, your subscription must be active and the game must still be in the service’s library.
If someone else shares the game with you, they must have Console Sharing and Offline Play enabled for your PS5.
You can also select Restore License from the game’s options or from the console’s settings.
Restarting the PS5 and installing available system updates are further steps to try if the game remains locked.
A padlock on a PS5 game means the console cannot currently verify access to the title.
Access may be blocked if a game license is withdrawn or an authentication process fails.
An incorrect account, a PlayStation Network outage, or an expired subscription can also prevent access.
PlayStation Plus games may become locked when they leave the service’s library.
Users can check account and subscription details, enable console sharing, or restore licenses to try to regain access.
- Who
- PS5 owners who see padlock icons on games in their libraries.
- What
- The icon indicates that the console cannot verify access to a game. Account, network, subscription, or license issues may be responsible.
- When
- Not stated
- Where
- On the PlayStation 5.
- Why
- The console may be unable to authenticate a game license, or the user may not have access through the account or subscription.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
No direct quotes in the coverage so far.
This story does not have a timeline yet.
- Platform
- PlayStation 5
- Icon
- Padlock over a game thumbnail
- Account check
- Settings > Users and Accounts > Account > Sign in
- License repair
- Select Restore License from a game’s Options menu or in Settings
- Console sharing
- Can be enabled on one PS5 at a time per account
Sources
Related news
Star Wars Galactic Racer’s progression system began as a board game
Two long-delayed games remain in development, with one targeting 2026
Eight games recommended for Cyberpunk 2077 fans
Starfield mod aims to let players land on planets without loading screens
Free Star Trek Mod Turns Stellaris Into a Vast Trek Strategy Game
Nintendo urged to add classic Wii games to Switch Online
Project Zomboid Reaches 64,086 Peak Players as Zombie Survival Game Grows
11 Challenges Offer New Ways to Replay Stardew Valley
Paramount developing live-action movie set in Cyberpunk 2077 universe
Squadron 42 opens Steam wishlisting ahead of planned Q2 2027 release
Gears of War: E-Day sales estimate trails its Game Pass audience
