Can You Play PS3 Online Multiplayer If Only One Person Owns the Game?

No. PS3 online multiplayer requires each player to own a license for the game on their own PSN account.

Why It Doesn't Work

• License Binding: Digital games are tied to the purchasing PSN account. Physical discs require the disc in the drive for verification (even if installed).
• No Family Sharing (PS3): Unlike PS4/PS5 (Console Sharing/Primary Console), PS3 has no mechanism to share a digital license across accounts on different consoles.
• Online Passes (Legacy): Many PS3 titles (EA, Ubisoft, Sony 1st party) used "Online Pass" codes—single-use codes in the box. Used copies required a $10 pass purchase.

Limited Exceptions

• Free-to-Play Titles: DC Universe Online, Dust 514, Free Realms, Happy Wars — anyone can download and play online free.
• Game Trials / Demos: Some games had online-enabled demos (time-limited or content-limited).
• PS3 "Game Sharing" (Account Sharing - ToS Violation Risk): You can activate a friend's account as "Primary" on your PS3 (Settings > Account Management > Activate as Primary). This lets you play their digital games. However: This violates Sony's Terms of Service (account sharing), risks bans, and only works for 2 consoles max per account. Not recommended.

Reliable Solution

Each player purchases the game (digital on sale, or used disc + Online Pass if required). PS3 servers for many titles are shut down—verify PlayStation Network Server Status or community wikis before buying for online.