PlayStation's Franchise Rewards program gates merch behind in-game trophies

Sony has introduced a new rewards program for PlayStation owners, called the Franchise Rewards program. The program allows players to purchase exclusive physical merchandise if they have unlocked certain in-game trophies. The company is starting with rewards for two trophies from Sucker Punch's Ghost of Tsushima, including a $25 commemorative pin and a $30 custom t-shirt. To claim these rewards, players must log in to a dedicated website before December 31, 2025, and pay for the items. This is not a true reward program, as players still have to purchase the merchandise. Sony's previous attempt at a loyalty program, the PlayStation Stars program, was short-lived and entirely digital, allowing players to earn "Stars" for playing specific games or performing activities on their consoles. The Franchise Rewards program is more similar to Bungie Rewards, the program run by the Destiny 2 developer, which allows players to unlock commemorative merchandise for completing in-game activities.