On June 13, 2022, Sony unveiled its revamped PlayStation Plus service in North America, revolutionizing the way gamers access content with a tiered subscription model. This new system merges the original PlayStation Plus with PlayStation Now, offering varying levels of service depending on the tier chosen.
PlayStation Plus Essential ($9.99/month): This entry-level tier mirrors the classic PS Plus, providing subscribers with online multiplayer access, monthly free games, and exclusive discounts.
PlayStation Plus Extra ($14.99/month): In addition to the benefits of the Essential tier, Extra subscribers enjoy a vast library of hundreds of PS4 and PS5 games, ensuring a diverse gaming experience.
PlayStation Plus Premium ($17.99/month): The top-tier offering includes all the perks of Essential and Extra, plus an extensive catalog of over 700 games spanning classics from PS3, PS2, PSP, and PS1 eras, along with game trials and cloud streaming capabilities in select regions.
The PlayStation Plus Premium tier boasts an impressive collection of over 700 games, covering more than two decades of gaming history. Navigating this extensive library can be daunting, as the PS Plus app doesn't simplify browsing. Therefore, understanding the highlights of this tier can be invaluable before deciding on a subscription. Sony regularly updates the lineup, typically with newer PS5 and PS4 titles, but often includes a selection of classic games as well.
Let's delve into some of the standout games available on PlayStation Plus.
Updated on January 5, 2025, by Mark Sammut: PlayStation Plus has announced its Essential games for the beginning of 2025. The selection has sparked mixed reactions, but one title stands out as a timeless classic.
The rankings of these games consider not only their quality but also factors such as their addition date to PS Plus. New additions are temporarily prioritized for visibility, and Essential games are highlighted first when mentioned.
Great Games Leaving PS Plus Extra & Premium In January 2025
While the start of 2025 for PS Plus Extra and Premium remains to be seen, Sony has confirmed that several significant titles will be removed in January 2025. As it stands, 11 games are scheduled to leave on January 21, 2025. Here are the most notable departures:
Resident Evil 2: A standout title leaving in January 2025, Capcom's 2019 remake of the PS1 classic is widely regarded as one of the best entries in the storied franchise. Focusing on horror over action, Resident Evil 2 offers two distinct campaigns following Leon and Claire as they navigate the zombie-infested Raccoon City. Players must manage resources, solve puzzles, and unravel a complex narrative, all while evading a relentless Tyrant. While completing both campaigns within the remaining PS Plus time might be challenging, finishing one is certainly achievable.
Dragon Ball FighterZ: Developed by Arc System Works, known for their prowess in the fighting game genre, Dragon Ball FighterZ excels due to its iconic license and accessible yet deep combat system. While the game's offline content may not justify a standalone purchase, its three single-player arcs can be completed in a couple of weeks, though they may become repetitive.
- The Stanley Parable: Ultra Deluxe (January 2025 PS Plus Essential)
