Introduction
Whether you’re trying to surprise a friend with a new game, or just prefer to keep your PlayStation 5 gaming habits a little more private, I’ve got you covered. I’ll show you exactly how to hide your PS5 gaming history, trophies, and other related activities.
Some of the images associated with the steps are included inline below. All images associated with these steps can be seen in the embedded YouTube video. Also, please note that you’re not able to leave a comment directly on this article. If you have a question or feedback, please leave it on the YouTube video.
Steps to Hide Your Gaming History on PS5
- Navigate to your PlayStation 5 home screen, and then click your PS5 profile icon at the top of this screen to open a menu.
- Click “Profile” in this menu. You’ll land on your PS5 profile screen.
- Click the “Privacy Settings” icon on this screen. The View and Customize Your Privacy Settings screen is displayed.
- Scroll down to the Your Activity section, and then click “Who Can See Your Gaming History.” A drop-down menu opens with options for who will be able to see what PS5 games you’ve played, your trophies and your participation in challenges.
- Choose “Friends” if you just want friends to be able to see your PlayStation 5 gaming history, or choose “No One” if you don’t want anyone to see your PS5 gaming history. In this example, I’ll choose “No One.”
Your changes will be applied immediately, and your PS5 gaming history will be hidden from other users based on your settings.
Reasons to Hide Your Gaming History on PS5
1. Privacy Concerns
Many PS5 gamers value their privacy. Keeping one’s gaming history private helps maintain a sense of personal space. Just like some people choose not to disclose what books they read or movies they watch, gamers might opt for similar discretion. By hiding their PS5 gaming history, they ensure their personal choices remain just that – personal. This can create a barrier, separating their gaming world from other aspects of their life.
2. Avoiding Judgement
Gamers, like everyone, can be sensitive to judgment. Some games carry stigmas or are misunderstood by the general populace. A person playing a game deemed “childish” or “casual” by peers might fear ridicule. By concealing what PlayStation 5 games they play, these individuals protect themselves from potential negative comments. They can then enjoy their chosen games without the looming cloud of others’ opinions.
3. Parental Restrictions
Young gamers often face rules set by parents or guardians. These might limit playtime or dictate which games are appropriate. Hiding PS5 gaming history can be a response to such restrictions. If a young player tries a game outside of set guidelines, they might not want it known. While this might not be the best solution, it’s a reality for some households.
4. Surprises or Gifts
The excitement of giving someone a new game as a surprise is unmatched. But if the giver tests or explores it first, they’ll want that to remain a secret. Hiding the gaming history ensures that the surprise remains intact. It allows the anticipation to build, guaranteeing a genuine reaction when the gift is finally revealed.
5. Shared Console
In homes with a single console, multiple users often share the device. Each individual has their gaming preferences and history. One might want to keep their gaming choices private from the other users. By hiding the PS5 games they’ve played, they maintain a semblance of individuality, ensuring their gaming experiences remain unique and personal.
6. Gaming Achievements
Competition drives many players. Achieving a milestone or completing a difficult challenge can be a point of pride. Yet, some gamers might want to keep these achievements under wraps. They may hope to surprise friends during competitive play or simply keep their progress private. Hiding one’s gaming history ensures these achievements remain a secret until they choose to share them.
7. Potential Harassment or Bullying
Sadly, the gaming world isn’t immune to bullying or harassment. Some players might face negativity based on their gaming choices. To avoid such unwarranted attention, they might choose to hide their history. This acts as a protective barrier, shielding them from potential ridicule or unwanted comments from peers or online communities.
8. Job or Professional Concerns
Perception matters in the professional world. Some careers might frown upon extensive gaming. An individual, aware of this, could decide to hide their gaming history to prevent misconceptions about their dedication to work. By doing so, they ensure that their personal leisure activities don’t become a topic of workplace conversation or judgment.
9. Fear of Spoilers
Narrative-driven games thrive on plot twists and story developments. Players deeply invested in the story will want to avoid spoilers at all costs. If they fear that revealing their place in the game might expose them to spoilers, they’ll opt to hide their PS5 gaming history. This ensures they can experience the game’s story untarnished.
10. Screen Time Management
Awareness of screen time can be a concern for some players. They might want to monitor their own habits without external input. Hiding their gaming history can be a means to achieve this. By keeping their playtime private, they manage their screen time without outside opinions influencing their choices.
11. Trial or Demo Versions
Gamers often experiment with trials or demos before committing to a full game. These initial explorations might be something they prefer to keep private. By hiding this history, they can make informed decisions about game purchases without others knowing of their initial interest or hesitations.
12. In-Game Purchases
Spending within games can be a personal choice that some gamers prefer to keep to themselves. Whether it’s buying cosmetic items or unlocking additional content, these transactions might be seen as personal indulgences. Hiding the associated game from one’s history ensures these purchases remain a private matter.
