Summary: Unlocking locked games on PS4 without activation can be done using various methods. However, it is important to note that unauthorized unlocking is illegal and may cause damage to the console. Users are advised to proceed with caution and only use legal methods.
1. Restore Licenses
One of the easiest methods to unlock locked games on PS4 is by restoring licenses. This method is useful when the games were purchased legally but are still showing as locked. To do this, go to Settings > Account Management > Restore Licenses and select the games that need to be unlocked. This should restore the licensing information and unlock the games. If the issue persists, try restarting the console and repeating the process.
It is worth noting that games that are locked due to being purchased through other user accounts will not be unlocked through this method. In such cases, contacting the original purchaser or obtaining the login details for that account is necessary.
If restoring licenses does not work, a possible reason is that the PS Plus subscription has expired. In such cases, renew the subscription and repeat the process.
2. Rebuild Database
If the console is experiencing performance issues, rebuilding its database may solve the locked game issue. To do this, turn off the console and press and hold the power button until the second beep. This enters safe mode. Then, select option 5: Rebuild Database and wait for the process to complete.
This method should not delete any saved data or user accounts from the console. However, some settings may be reset to default. It is advised to backup important data before attempting this method.
After the database is rebuilt, check if the locked games are now unlocked. If not, try the previous method or continue to the next.
3. Initialize PS4
If the above methods do not work, initializing the PS4 may be necessary. This will reset the console back to its factory settings and erase all data from the hard drive. To do this, go to Settings > Initialization > Initialize PS4 and follow the on-screen prompts.
Before performing this method, ensure that all important data is backed up on an external drive or cloud storage. After the process is complete, the console will be in the same state as it was when first purchased, including the locked games. If the games are still locked, contact customer support for further assistance.
It is important to note that this method should be a last resort as it erases all data from the console, including saved games, user accounts, and data on the hard drive.
4. Check Game Discs and Downloads
If the locked game is a physical disc, ensure that the disc is not damaged or scratched. Cleaning the disc with a soft cloth and checking for damage on the underside may help. If the disc is significantly damaged, purchasing a new copy may be necessary.
If the game was downloaded, ensure that the download is completed and there are no errors. Check the internet connection and try restarting the download. If the issue persists, deleting the incomplete download and re-downloading the game may solve the problem.
It is also possible that locked games are due to regional restrictions or censorship laws. In such cases, purchasing the game from another region or country or using a VPN may unlock the game, though this may be illegal and risks account suspension.
Conclusion:
Unlocking locked games on PS4 without activation can be done using different methods. Each of the methods mentioned above has its own risks and limitations. It is important to note that unauthorized unlocking or tampering of the console is illegal and may damage the system components. Therefore, users are advised to use caution or only use legal methods to unlock games. If all else fails, contacting customer support or the game manufacturer may provide further assistance.
The most common method is restoring licenses, which restores the licensing information and unlocks the game. Other methods include rebuilding the database, initializing the console, checking the game discs and downloads, and addressing regional restrictions or censorship laws.
It is crucial to note that certain methods, such as initializing the console, may lead to the loss of saved games, user accounts, and other data on the console. Therefore, backing up important data before trying these methods is highly recommended. With caution, persistence, and legal compliance, locked games on PS4 can be unlocked without activation.
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