This is how it starts.
First it's a "one-time" check.
Then it's multiple times.
It's only a matter of time after the fact you need the internet connection to play digital games at all. All the while they push systems that don't have disc drives.
PlayStation has responded to the reports of online check-ins required for licenses, saying nothing has changed:
“Players can continue to access and play their purchased games as usual. A one-time online check is required to confirm the game's license, after which no further check-ins are required.”