Current-gen consoles like the PS5 are armed with advanced security features that have made it tough for hackers to jailbreak them. For those who might not know, jailbreaking involves gaining full administrative access to a console, which allows users to install unofficial software, including pirated games and emulators.
A jailbreak exploit for the PS5 would spell trouble for Sony, potentially draining gaming revenue. Just look at the PS4 resale market, where hackers have modified old consoles with custom firmware, selling them loaded with hundreds of games. Players sidestep the costs associated with games—funds that otherwise would have gone to Sony—only paying for the console and the jailbreak.
Since its launch, the PS5 has successfully evaded this pitfall, despite hackers’ relentless attempts. However, recent buzz suggests that a forgotten title might hold the key to cracking the code: the game in question is a somewhat obscure Star Wars racing title.
Star Wars Racer Revenge is Reportedly the Key to PS5 Jailbreaks
Released back in 2002 for the PlayStation 2, Star Wars Racer Revenge might not have set the world on fire, but it’s suddenly become the center of attention among hackers. While the game received average reviews, its gameplay was a chaotic blend of high-speed racing and destruction, reminiscent of a Death Race scenario.
Limited Run Games published Racer Revenge, with an estimated print run of just 8,500 copies sold for $14.99. Surprisingly, we’ve now seen the price for second-hand versions skyrocket to around €350 ($375). What spurred this jump? Hackers online believe the PS4 version of this game is crucial for PS5 jailbreaks due to its menu structure, which allows for code injections that might bypass security measures. The catch? They claim this method can’t be patched.
As of now, the exact impact of Star Wars Racer Revenge on PS5 jailbreaks remains uncertain. However, after the game gained traction, PS5 ROM keys began leaking online. While these keys are intriguing, they aren’t yet sufficient for a full-blown jailbreak, so Sony likely has some breathing room for now.
So far, Sony hasn’t weighed in on the situation. Interestingly enough, the CEO of Limited Run Games recently stepped down, citing a need for “new leadership.” Coincidence? Probably, but it certainly raises eyebrows.
What is jailbreaking a PS5?
Jailbreaking a PS5 means modifying the system to run unapproved software, allowing users access to pirated games and other unauthorized content.
How does the game Star Wars Racer Revenge play into this?
Star Wars Racer Revenge is believed to provide a method for hackers to inject code into the PS5, exploiting its security and opening doors for jailbreaking.
Why has the price of Star Wars Racer Revenge skyrocketed?
The sudden interest in Star Wars Racer Revenge, coupled with its potential role in PS5 jailbreaking, has driven prices for second-hand copies up to around €350 ($375) on resale platforms.
Will Sony respond to the potential jailbreak?
At this point, Sony has not made an official statement regarding the leaks or the jailbreak rumors, leaving many gamers curious about their next move.
Stay tuned to see how this unfolds. What do you think about the demand for old games spiking due to hacking potential? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below!