Can you gift digital games through the PlayStation Store?

PS4
PS4 (Image credit: Android Central)

Best answer: Unfortunately, people can't gift digital games to others through the PlayStation Store yet. The only way to "gift" a digital game is by purchasing a PlayStation Store gift card and giving that to your friend so that they can use it to purchase a game on their account.

Digital goodies: PlayStation Gift Card (From $10 at Amazon)

Why can't we gift digital games through the store?

There doesn't seem to be a good reason as to why you can't gift digital games through the PlayStation Store currently other than Sony just doesn't allow it. Whether this is due to technical limitations, licensing issues, or something else entirely is unknown, but what we do know is that it is impossible for now.

What good is the PlayStation Store wishlist then?

You might be asking yourself why bother have a digital wishlist feature if your friends can't use it. Well, that digital wishlist is for yourself so you can keep track of the games you may want to purchase in the future.

Can Xbox users gift digital games through the Microsoft Store?

Yes, Xbox players can gift digital games to their friends through the Microsoft Store, but the caveat is that you can only gift to another person in the same region as you. For instance, if you live in the U.K. and try to gift someone in the U.S. a digital game, they won't be able to redeem it and you'll be out a chunk of change for whatever you spent on it.

When will the PlayStation Store support digital game gifting?

PlayStation has not stated when, or even if, digital gift giving will become a feature that the store supports. Given that Sony recently enacted a policy that blocks retailers from selling full game digital download codes, we're hoping that gift giving is coming sooner rather than later. But as always with this type of thing, don't hold your breath.

Consider gifting these great PlayStation 4 accessories

EasySMX VIP002S RGB Gaming Headset ($36 at Amazon)

Good headsets tend to get expensive, but the EasySMX VIP002S headset gives you the best of both worlds: affordability and quality. If you're looking for a cheap and comfortable headset, look no further.

HyperX ChargePlay Duo ($20 at Amazon)

Charge up your controllers without taking up that precious USB space on your console. The HyperX ChargePlay Duo can charge two at once in two hours through an AC adapter.

WD 2TB Elements External Hard Drive ($63 at Amazon)

The WD 2TB Elements External Hard Drive saves you from the hassle of choosing which to delete and re-download when you want to play by giving you tons of extra storage.

Jennifer Locke
Games Editor - PlayStation, Android, VR

Jennifer Locke has been playing video games nearly her entire life. You can find her posting pictures of her dog and obsessing over PlayStation and Xbox, Star Wars, and other geeky things.