Can I get a refund for a PS4 game after downloading or playing it?

You buy a PS4 game, start the download, play a bit, then realize it is not what you wanted. Now you are asking, can I get my money back, or is it too late?

Sony’s rules are strict, and they are not like Steam. A refund can still happen in a few cases, but timing matters, and whether you started the download or played it matters too.

The short answer

If you already started downloading or playing the game, a refund is usually not allowed. You can ask for a refund within 14 days only if you have not started downloading or streaming. The main exception is when the game does not work as it should.

What Sony’s policy says

14 days to request a refund on games and add-ons, but only if you have not downloaded or streamed them.
Faulty content can be refunded even after download.
In-game items can be refunded within 14 days only if the parent game was never launched.
Subscriptions can be refunded on the first payment within 14 days. If you used the service, Sony may reduce the amount.

Started downloading vs played it

Sony treats these the same. Once the download begins, or you launch the game, the purchase is considered used. That includes preloads. A quick test still counts as use.

When you can still get a refund

You have not started the download or stream, and you are within 14 days of purchase.
The game does not work right, for example constant crashes or missing features that stop play.
A pre-order that has not released yet and was not preloaded.
Clear mistakes like a child account purchase or a duplicate order. Include order numbers and details when you ask.

Pre-orders, DLC, and in-game items

Pre-orders. Cancel any time before release if you did not download or preload. If you bought within 14 days of release, you get 14 days from the purchase date, again only if you did not download or preload. After release, normal rules apply.

DLC and add-ons. Refunds are possible within 14 days if nothing was downloaded or streamed. If the add-on does not work, you can still ask. For bundles or deluxe editions, if any part was downloaded, the whole bundle is treated as used.

In-game items. Coins, skins, and similar items are refundable within 14 days only if the main game was never launched. If the item does not work, explain that when you contact support.

Subscriptions and trials

You can request a refund on the first PlayStation Plus payment within 14 days. If you used cloud saves, online play, or claimed games, Sony may reduce the refund based on use. Free trials that roll into paid plans follow the same rule from the first charge.

How to request a refund, step by step

Open Account, Transaction History in your PlayStation account.
Select the purchase, choose Request a refund, and follow the prompts.
If you do not see the option, contact PlayStation Support and provide dates, product, order number, and your reason.

The two hour myth

There is no two hour playtime window for PlayStation like there is on Steam. The key limit is 14 days and no download or streaming, unless the content is faulty.

Region notes, US, UK, AU

US and UK. Rules are nearly the same, 14 days and no download or streaming, with refunds for faulty content.
Australia. You have strong consumer rights for faulty products. If a game does not work as promised, you can get a refund, repair, or replacement even after download.

Bottom line

If you downloaded or played the game, a refund is usually off the table. Your best shot is when you have not started the download, or when the game does not work right. If you think you have a case, open your transaction history, try the refund option, then reach out to support with clear details.