ShadPS4 Takes a Big Step Toward Online Play Without PSN

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The developers behind ShadPS4 have introduced a major new feature that moves PlayStation 4 emulation closer to a complete experience. The latest update integrates ShadNet, a custom online server system designed to let players connect online without using Sony’s PlayStation Network.

Inspired by the successful RPCN service created for the PlayStation 3 emulator RPCS3, ShadNet currently supports basic online functionality, including score tracking, while broader multiplayer features continue to be developed:

1. shadNet provides only support to the libraries that emulated by shadps4 emulator
2. shadNet can’t replace or connect to PSN, as we use our own communication protocol
3. Given the above only shadps4 can connect to shadNet
4. Most online games uses their own custom servers and services which shadnet doesn’t and won’t provide
5. Implemented features are quite limited at the moment and mostly cover online scoring

The addition follows version 0.16.0, which also introduced improvements such as local multiplayer support, camera emulation, enhanced audio and expanded configuration options. Although progress continues, ShadPS4 remains in the early stages of development.

Developers estimate that roughly 15 percent of the emulator’s known PlayStation 4 compatibility list is currently playable, with titles such as Bloodborne, Red Dead Redemption and Dark Souls Remastered running with varying levels of success. Many games still suffer from graphical glitches, audio problems and performance issues.

As an open-source project available for Windows, Linux and macOS, ShadPS4 continues to receive regular updates from its community.