PlayStation Plus

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What is PlayStation Plus?

PlayStation Plus is a subscription service that offers access to online multiplayer and a library of games. These are available across Sony’s gaming platforms, including PS5 and PS4, and can be streamed on PC. Players who get a PlayStation Plus membership can try out the best PS5 games through this service.

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The PlayStation Plus Game Catalog catalog features various games depending on which plan you sign up for, including classic titles from the PlayStation 1. While it is not the only subscription service available in gaming, Sony offers several unique benefits for its players.

You can read how it compares to others in our Xbox Game Pass vs PlayStation Plus feature.

What is PlayStation Plus?

Key Takeaways

  • PlayStation Plus is a subscription service that grants players access to a catalog of games on consoles and PCs and offers online play functionality.
  • A collection of over 100+ games dating back to the PlayStation 1 can be downloaded through Sony gaming platforms, but players do not own the games they play.
  • PlayStation Plus has three tiers: Essential, Extra, and Premium, each offering different features for varying prices.
  • Buying a VPN service and changing console settings can help improve PlayStation Plus performance.
  • PlayStation Plus is a great service for gaming enthusiasts but can be expensive and does not give you day-one access to the latest games.

History of PlayStation Plus

Here is the detailed PlayStation Plus history since it launched back in 2010.

How PlayStation Plus Works

PlayStation Plus charges a monthly or annual fee to players who want to access online multiplayer and download games from its library. 

It is an alternative to buying games individually, offering an extensive selection of Sony titles readily available for download and play/stream (depending on the tier).

This is a great option for players who regularly purchase or play video games, as it saves you money in the long run in comparison to buying games individually.

Players who download games through PlayStation Plus do not own the games they play; they must purchase them separately if they wish to retain the game after canceling their subscription.

Types of PlayStation Plus Tiers

The three PlayStation Plus tiers available to players
The three PlayStation Plus tiers available to players. Source: PlayStation

The PlayStation Plus price will increase when you subscribe to tiers with more features. It is important to know what each tier offers in order to decide which one is right for you.

At the time of writing this article, PlayStation Plus offers three tiers for Sony’s gaming platforms.

PlayStation Plus Essential

Month Price 
1 month $9.99 USD
3 month $24.99 USD
12 month $79.99 USD
PlayStation Essential is the cost-effective service providing access to a selection of games rotated every month, online multiplayer, and discounts at the PlayStation store. 

Members will also receive Share play, which allows PlayStation 5 players to share their screen with friends for up to 60 minute sessions. It features the option to virtually pass the controls to the visitor so they can also interact with the game.

Other benefits include cloud storage and other exclusive content.

PlayStation Plus Extra

Month Price 
1 month $14.99 USD
3 month $39.99 USD
12 month $134.99 USD
PlayStation Plus Extra offers access to its catalog of games, which can be readily downloaded and played across Sony gaming platforms. 

Members will have access to the features offered in the Essential tier, in addition to Ubisoft+ Classics collection.

PlayStation Plus Premium

Month  Price 
1 month $17.99 USD
3 month $49.99 USD
12 month $159.99 USD
PlayStation Plus Premium is the most expensive tier available, offering access to a more extensive library of games dating back to the PlayStation 1. 

Members can also test out the latest PlayStation exclusives for a limited time through Game Trials. 

The Premium tier also offers Cloud gaming, allowing players to stream the games they play through other devices with a Wi-Fi connection. This includes iOS and Android devices, Windows PC and Mac, Android Televisions and Chromecast with Google TV, and the PlayStation Portal.

How to Cancel PlayStation Plus

Canceling PlayStation Plus results in losing access to games downloaded through the service and no longer offers online multiplayer.

Here is how to cancel PlayStation Plus membership on the PS5:

  1. Sign in to your PlayStation console and navigate to the settings icon.

  2. Select the Users and Accounts tab, and then click Account.

  3. Look for Payment and Subscriptions, then select the Subscriptions option.

  4. Click on PlayStation Plus, then Cancel Subscription.

  5. Press Confirm Cancellation.

Press Confirm Cancellation.

Here is how to cancel PlayStation Plus membership on PC:

  1. Open your browser and go to Account Manager for PlayStation.

  2. Sign In with the registered email address associated with the subscription.

  3. Select the Subscription tab, and click Continue.

  4. You will reach the PlayStation Store, select In Use, then Subscription Settings.

  5. Select Cancel located at the bottom of the menu, and press Confirm Cancel. 

Canceling a PlayStation Plus subscription will remove the service from all devices registered with the account. Any additional accounts will need to be canceled separately.

Popular PlayStation Plus Games

Here is a list of noteworthy PlayStation Plus games for players to experience.

Ghost of Tsushima

Jin Sakai, as seen in Ghost of Tsushima, is a samurai who must adopt stealth tactics to drive back the invading Mongols.
Jin Sakai, as seen in Ghost of Tsushima, is a samurai who must adopt stealth tactics to drive back the invading Mongols. Source: PlayStation

Release Date: July 17, 2020

Developer: Sucker Punch Productions

Platforms: PS4, PS5

Tiers: Extra, Premium

Ghost of Tsushima is an action-adventure game set in the first Mongol invasion of Japan in the year 1274. Following the journey of Jin Sakai, players can choose to face their foes head-on as honorable samurai or stalk them from the shadows as the Ghost.

Bloodborne

Bloodborne
Source: PlayStation

Release Date: March 24, 2015

Developer: FromSoftware

Platforms: PS4, PS5

Tiers: Extra, Premium

Bloodborne is an action RPG set in a gothic Victorian-inspired world. Players take on the role of Hunters, facing various bosses and adversaries afflicted with a blood disease that turns them into horrifying monsters.

FromSoftware is a studio that is notorious for crafting interesting worlds to explore and challenging bosses to fight.

God of War Ragnarök

God of War Ragnarök
Source: PlayStation

Release Date: November 9, 2022

Developer: Santa Monica Studio

Platforms: PS4; PS5

Tier: Premium

God of War Ragnarök is the sequel to the highly successful God of War in 2018. It continues the story of Kratos and Atreus as they face off against gods of Norse mythology and try to survive Ragnarök.

Players that subscribe to the Premium service can trial the latest PlayStation 5 exclusives in 2024.

PlayStation Plus free games are available across all tiers but change every month.

Monthly PlayStation Plus games change often, but here are some available to subscribers at the time of writing to show you what to expect.

Harry Potter: Quidditch Champions

Harry Potter: Quidditch Champions released on September 3, 2024, across multiple platforms. Players can assume the role of Chaser, Seeker, Keeper, or Beater to score the most points against the opposing team.

It emulates the iconic Quidditch game from the Harry Potter series and features arenas in iconic places from the wizarding world. It can be played solo or in online co-op in intense PVP matches.

MLB The Show 24

MLB The Show 24 released on March 19, 2024, on multiple platforms including the PlayStation 4 and 5.

It’s a popular baseball simulator that reenacts what it’s like to play at the Major Leagues. It features new players, an improved Diamond Dynasty mode, and a revised MLB draft system.

Little Nightmares II

Little Nightmares II is an adventure platformer with horror themes and suspenseful gameplay. It launched on February 11, 2021.

You play as Mono, a young boy who is assisted by the previous game’s protagonist – Six. They work together to solve puzzles and evade terrifying threats as they attempt to reach a mysterious transmission from a distant tower. For more, we’re tracking the expected Little Nightmares 3 release date.

4 Ways to Improve PlayStation Plus Performance

  1. Use one of the best VPNs to ensure safe and secure online play and streaming game content.

  2. Play your games on PS5 in “Performance Mode” to prioritize framerates.

  3. Use a wired connection instead of Wi-Fi for the most consistent online performance.

  4. Upgrading or changing your internet service provider (ISP) can result in faster downloads.

    PlayStation Plus Pros & Cons

    When compared to other services such as Xbox Game Pass, it’s important to recognize what makes PlayStation Plus stand out and where it falls short.

    Here is Techopedia’s guide to advise on whether or not PlayStation Plus is right for you.

    Pros

    • PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium tiers are great value for money.
    • Subscribing to 12 month plans saves you money, especially with Premium.
    • Premium offers Share Play, which shares your screen and controller with friends online.
    • PlayStation Plus catalog features over 100 games, including Ubisoft+ Classics collection
    • Playstation Plus offers classic titles dating back to the Playstation 1 generation.
    • PlayStation Plus cloud gaming works well, especially for the PlayStation Portal.

    Cons

    • Does not offer day-one access, but rather game trials for PlayStation 5 exclusives.
    • You do not own the games you play, instead you gain access to a license.
    • PlayStation Plus Essential is not that much cheaper than Extra, including the price increase.

    The Bottom Line

    PlayStation Plus offers several benefits for players who wish to become members, but the extent of those benefits depends entirely on gaming preferences and circumstances.

    The three tiers available ensure there is a plan for everyone, from casual players to gaming enthusiasts. But with its recent price increases, players should research thoroughly before making the investment.

    When gaming is becoming a more expensive hobby, planning ahead is crucial. Subscribing to a service like PlayStation Plus is a great way to make the most out of the games you play.

    FAQ’s

    How much does PlayStation Plus cost?

    What does PlayStation Plus actually do?

    Is a PS Plus subscription worth it?

    Is PS Plus really necessary?

    How many games are on PS Plus right now?

    Which PlayStation Plus tier is the best?

    References

    1. Sony (My.account.sony)
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    Joey Morris
    Gaming Writer
    Joey Morris
    Gaming Writer

    Joey Morris is a Gaming Writer for Techopedia. He has spent several years writing on his own blog site and for other creative publications. He has written reviews, features, and even a digital magazine. He has also produced podcasts, video essays, and held interviews with various experts in the gaming industry. He has a BA Hons Journalism degree from the University of Brighton, and is currently based in the United Kingdom. In his spare time he enjoys experimenting with graphic designs, learning about gaming development, and playing video games as both a profession and passion.