PlayStation Stars has been discontinued, and Sony has introduced a new “Wallet Credits” entry in the PlayStation Store that hints at a forthcoming rewards system. The shift moves from a points‑based loyalty model to direct wallet credits, promising instant spendability, cross‑platform use, and clearer earning mechanics for PlayStation users.
PlayStation Stars Closure
PlayStation Stars launched in 2022 as a points‑based loyalty program that rewarded purchases, mission completions, and overall engagement. After three years, Sony announced the program’s termination, giving members a brief window to redeem remaining points before the service was deactivated.
Wallet Credits Appears in the Store
Shortly after the closure announcement, the PlayStation Store listed a new, unpublished app named Wallet Credits, credited to Sony Interactive Entertainment. The listing provides only a publisher name and a generic icon, with no description or screenshots, indicating a forthcoming feature rather than a downloadable product.
Potential New Rewards System
The “Wallet Credits” entry suggests a rewards framework that allocates digital credits directly to users’ PlayStation Wallets. This model could replace the abstract points system, allowing credits to be spent instantly on any store purchase, simplifying redemption and improving transparency.
Key Benefits of Wallet Credits
- Direct Spendability: Credits sit in the PlayStation Wallet and can be applied at checkout without conversion.
- Cross‑Platform Compatibility: Usable on PS5, PS4, the PlayStation App, and the web store.
- Transparent Earning Mechanics: Credits tied to measurable actions such as purchase amount or subscription renewal.
Impact on PlayStation Users
The end of PlayStation Stars removes a familiar avenue for earning free games and exclusive content. Users who accumulated points may feel the loss, especially if they could not redeem them before the deadline. A wallet‑credit system could address these concerns by offering immediate value and broader applicability.
Product Management Perspective
Transitioning from points to wallet credits aligns with industry trends toward unified digital economies. Reducing friction by eliminating a conversion step can boost conversion rates for in‑store purchases. For developers, a credit model opens new promotional avenues, allowing studios to receive credit allocations for meeting sales milestones or participating in timed events.
Future Outlook
While Sony has not confirmed the exact purpose of the “Wallet Credits” listing, the simultaneous shutdown of PlayStation Stars and the introduction of this entry suggest a strategic pivot toward a more streamlined rewards experience. Users should watch for official announcements detailing launch dates, terms of service, and any expiration policies.
