How do I access blocked games?

Accessing blocked games can be tricky depending on the platform, country, or specific restrictions that have been applied. Whether you’re dealing with a restricted game on your gaming console, PC, or mobile device, there are a few methods that can help you bypass those blocks. Below are some common methods for accessing blocked games on different platforms.

1. Accessing Blocked Games on Consoles

PlayStation (PS4/PS5)

• Region Restrictions: Some games may be restricted based on your region. To access these games, you can create a new account set to a different region that allows the game to be played. For example, creating a Japanese PlayStation account can sometimes give you access to games that are unavailable in your country.
• VPN (Virtual Private Network): A VPN allows you to connect to servers in other regions and make it appear as though you’re accessing the internet from that region. By using a VPN, you may be able to access content that’s blocked in your region. However, note that Sony may restrict access to their services if they detect VPN usage, so proceed with caution.
• Change Account Region: On PlayStation consoles, you can change the region of your account to one where the game is available. This may require you to set up a new payment method or a new account, but it’s one of the ways to unlock region-locked content.

Xbox (Xbox One/Series X/S)

• Create a New Region Account: Just like PlayStation, Xbox often restricts content based on the region. To get around this, you can create an account set to a region that has the game available.
• VPN: Using a VPN on your router or on your Xbox console itself may help you unlock region-locked games. This method, however, comes with similar risks as on PlayStation, such as possible account bans.

Nintendo Switch

• Change Console Region: You can change the region of your Nintendo account to access games that are unavailable in your region. This can be done directly in the settings, and after changing the region, you can access the Nintendo eShop of the country you selected.
• Create a New Account: Creating a new Nintendo account with a different region allows you to access games available in that specific region.
• VPN: You can also use a VPN with your Switch console to make it appear as though you’re accessing content from a region that allows the game you want to play.

2. Accessing Blocked Games on PC

Steam

• Use a VPN: Steam sometimes blocks games based on geographical regions. You can use a VPN to connect to a server in a region where the game is available. Afterward, you can access the game as if you're in that location. However, you should be aware that using a VPN to access restricted content may violate Steam’s Terms of Service, and your account could potentially be banned.
• Change Steam Region: You can change your Steam account’s region manually by navigating to your account settings. After changing the region, Steam will update the prices and available content based on your new location.

Epic Games Store

• Region Change: Like Steam, the Epic Games Store also uses regional restrictions. You can create a new account with a different region or use a VPN to access region-restricted games.
• Use a Gift Card: Some users get around regional restrictions by purchasing game gift cards from regions where the game is available and then redeeming the code in their Epic Games account.

Other PC Platforms

• Access through a VPN: Whether you’re playing on GOG, Origin, or UPlay, a VPN is often the best tool to bypass region-locking for games. Make sure the VPN is active when you attempt to access the game so that your IP address appears as if you’re located in the region where the game is available.

3. Accessing Blocked Games on Mobile Devices

iOS

• Change Apple ID Region: If an app or game is blocked in your region, you can try changing the country or region of your Apple ID. This can be done in your account settings. After changing the region, you’ll have access to the iTunes/App Store content from the selected country, allowing you to download restricted games.
• Use a VPN: You can use a VPN on your mobile device to connect to a different country’s server, which might give you access to the App Store content from that region.

Android

• Create a New Google Account: You can create a new Google account set to a region where the game is available. Once set up, you can download the app or game from the Google Play Store of that region.
• Use a VPN: You can also use a VPN app to change your IP address to a country where the game is accessible, and then download the game through the Google Play Store.

4. Accessing Blocked Games through Third-Party Methods

Emulators

For older console games that have been blocked or are not available in your region, emulators provide a way to play them on your PC or mobile device. Emulators are programs that simulate the hardware of consoles, allowing you to play games from older systems such as the NES, SNES, Sega Genesis, PlayStation, and more.

• ROMs: After setting up an emulator, you can download ROMs of the games you want to play. Be sure to check the legal status of ROMs in your country, as downloading ROMs of copyrighted games without owning the original may violate copyright laws.

Cloud Gaming Services

Some cloud gaming platforms such as Google Stadia, GeForce Now, and Xbox Cloud Gaming allow you to access games without needing the physical hardware. These platforms often have fewer region restrictions, though some content may still be limited based on your location.

5. Legal Considerations

While accessing blocked games may seem like a fun way to expand your library, it's essential to consider the legal implications of bypassing region restrictions. Using VPNs, changing regions, or downloading games from unofficial sources can violate the Terms of Service of many platforms, resulting in account bans, restrictions, or legal actions. Make sure to understand the legal consequences in your region before attempting to bypass blocks.

Conclusion

Accessing blocked games is often possible, but it depends on the platform you’re using and the reason behind the block. Whether it’s through using VPNs, changing region settings, or downloading games through emulators, there are multiple methods to unlock restricted content. However, always make sure to weigh the pros and cons, and understand the legal risks involved in bypassing these restrictions.