PlayStation new program allows players to scan themselves into a game

PlayStation has launched The Playerbase, a unique community program offering devoted fans the opportunity to have their likeness scanned and appear as in-game characters in PlayStation Studios titles. According to PlayStation Blog's official announcement, the initiative starts with Gran Turismo 7 and will expand to additional games in the near future. Applications opened globally on April 7, 2026, at 7AM PT through the dedicated portal at playstation.com/the-playerbase.

What is PlayStation The Playerbase?

The Playerbase represents PlayStation's most ambitious fan engagement initiative to date. According to Isabelle Tomatis, Vice President of Global Marketing at Sony Interactive Entertainment, the program celebrates PlayStation's gaming community, which has 'a vital role in PlayStation's history and future'. Selected fans undergo professional likeness scanning at a visual arts studio in Los Angeles, with their character portraits appearing permanently in participating games.

For Gran Turismo 7, chosen fans receive special limited-time character portrait appearances similar to existing in-game characters. They also collaborate with designers to create custom Fantasy Logos and unique vehicle liveries that become permanent additions to the game's Showcase menu. This marks the first time PlayStation has offered fans such direct integration into their blockbuster titles.

How to apply for The Playerbase program

Interested fans can submit applications at playstation.com/the-playerbase starting April 7, 2026, at 7AM PT. The application process requires signing in with a PlayStation account ID and answering questions about your PlayStation gaming experiences. Additional personal information is also required to participate in the selection process.

PlayStation will review all applications before selecting a limited number of finalists for video interviews. These interviews focus on understanding applicants' connections to PlayStation and their gaming journey. From the finalist pool, PlayStation selects one fan for each participating game, starting with Gran Turismo 7. The program operates in select markets across the Americas, Europe, Asia, South Africa, and Australia.

What happens if you're selected?

Selected participants receive an all-expenses-paid trip to a visual arts studio in Los Angeles for professional scanning and collaboration sessions. The scanning process captures detailed likeness data for accurate in-game character representation. Participants also work directly with PlayStation's design team to create their personalised Fantasy Logo and vehicle livery.

In Gran Turismo 7, selected fans appear as character portraits throughout the game for a limited time. Their custom designs become permanent fixtures in the Showcase menu, viewable by all players globally. The experience represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to become part of gaming history within one of PlayStation's most successful franchises.

Expanding to more PlayStation Studios games

PlayStation plans to expand The Playerbase across additional PlayStation Studios titles, though specific games remain unannounced. Each participating game will feature fans in ways that fit the title's unique style and world. This suggests different integration approaches beyond Gran Turismo 7's character portrait system.

Given PlayStation Studios' diverse portfolio, future opportunities could span various genres from action-adventure to multiplayer experiences. The program's expansion timeline remains unclear, but PlayStation promises regular updates on participating titles. This initiative comes as PlayStation continues investing heavily in community engagement following Gran Turismo's growing presence in the UAE gaming scene.

Should UAE gamers apply?

The program's availability in 'select markets in Asia' creates uncertainty for UAE and GCC region eligibility. PlayStation hasn't explicitly confirmed whether the UAE falls within their Asian market definition for this program. However, given the region's growing gaming community and recent PlayStation initiatives, UAE residents might be eligible.

Our recommendation: UAE gaming enthusiasts should apply if they meet the program requirements. The application process is free and provides clarity on regional eligibility. Even if not selected, participating demonstrates community engagement that could benefit future PlayStation initiatives in the region. The worst outcome is simply not being selected – there's no downside to trying.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is PlayStation's The Playerbase program?

The Playerbase is PlayStation's community program offering devoted fans the chance to have their likeness scanned and appear as in-game characters in PlayStation Studios titles, starting with Gran Turismo 7.

How can I apply for The Playerbase?

Visit playstation.com/the-playerbase, sign in with your PlayStation account, and answer questions about your PlayStation gaming experiences. Applications opened April 7, 2026, at 7AM PT.

Which games will feature The Playerbase participants?

The program begins with Gran Turismo 7, with PlayStation planning to expand it to additional PlayStation Studios titles in the near future. Specific games haven't been announced.

Are UAE residents eligible for The Playerbase?

PlayStation mentions availability in 'Asia' without confirming specific countries. UAE residents should apply at the portal to determine eligibility during registration.

What do selected participants receive?

Selected fans get professional likeness scanning in Los Angeles, appear as character portraits in games, and collaborate on custom Fantasy Logos and vehicle liveries that become permanent game content.

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