As the PlayStation 5 approaches its third anniversary, the gaming community remains enthralled by the captivating world of PlayStation Plus, a subscription service that has garnered over 40 million subscribers. With its three tiers—Essential, Extra, and Premium—PlayStation Plus offers a diverse range of gaming experiences for both seasoned PlayStation enthusiasts and loyal PS4 users. In this article, we’ll delve into each tier and provide an in-depth look at some of the standout games that make PlayStation Plus an indispensable service for gaming enthusiasts.
Essential tier
The Essential tier, priced at a budget-friendly $10 per month, caters to gamers seeking essential online features and a curated selection of monthly game downloads. While not as expansive as the higher tiers, it serves as an excellent entry point for those looking to dip their toes into the world of PlayStation Plus.
Extra tier
At the heart of the PlayStation Plus lineup is the Extra tier, available at $15 per month. This tier, often compared to Xbox Game Pass, opens the door to a vast library of over 100 games, providing a diverse and engaging selection for players. Let’s take a closer look at some of the noteworthy titles available in this tier:
Premium tier
For an additional $3, subscribers can elevate their gaming experience to the Premium tier, introducing streaming access to classic PlayStation games. While this tier enhances the catalogue with additional features, including streaming of classic PlayStation games, players need to weigh the benefits against the increased cost.
Celeste
Picturesque Platformer Celeste, a retro-inspired platformer, has stood the test of time since its release five years ago. With ethereal music setting the perfect tone, players embark on a challenging journey, dashing through levels filled with delightful yet formidable obstacles. The art’s cuteness belies the need for intense focus, making Celeste a captivating experience for both visual novel enthusiasts and platformer aficionados.
Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy
Intrepid Ensemble This single-player adventure in outer space invites players to enjoy a narrative-rich experience reminiscent of the Marvel film franchise. Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy, available as part of PlayStation Plus Extra, boasts a solid soundtrack and clinched the title of Best Narrative at the 2021 Game Awards. Dive into an epic journey that captures the essence of the beloved film series.
Slay the Spire
Deck Crafter Imagine a rogue-like video game falling in love with a cool deck builder, and you get Slay the Spire. A critical success upon its official release in 2019, this game offers a unique gameplay experience that still feels fresh. Players navigate through dungeons, choosing their path and favourite cards in a strategic adventure that combines the best of both genres.
Resident Evil 7
Biohazard: Rural Trappings From 2017, Resident Evil 7: Biohazard injects terror into the Extra tier. This first-person instalment in the Resident Evil series promises a spine-chilling experience for both longtime fans and those curious about horror. Stealth is key as players scavenge through the Baker family’s dimly lit and super creepy house. Note that while the PS4 version is included in the subscription, upgrading to the PS5 edition comes at an additional cost.
Humanity
Mortal Puzzles In Humanity, players take on the role of a leader guiding masses of followers through a variety of delightful levels. The game introduces a unique twist—make one wrong turn, and everyone gets systematically deleted off the side of the platform. Beyond the main story, the inclusion of a DIY stage creator adds a layer of creativity and replayability to this intriguing title.
Riders Republic
Sick Air For those seeking high-octane thrills, Riders Republic from Ubisoft delivers gnarly fun. This racing game lets players compete against online opponents in a mishmash of America’s national parks. Whether shredding dirt trails on a bike, conquering snow slopes on skis, or soaring through the open air in a wingsuit, Riders Republic promises action-packed excitement. Need a moment of solitude? Activate Zen mode for a leisurely exploration of the open-world setting.
Untitled Goose Game
Fiendish Fowl In the realm of chaotic, yet cute, mischief, Untitled Goose Game stands out as an absolute banger from 2019. Published by Panic, this game lets players role-play as a prankish feathered animal, causing delightful chaos in its wake. From swiping a pint glass at the pub to trapping a boy in a phone booth, Untitled Goose Game offers silly fun that’s worth revisiting.
Ghostwire: Tokyo
Spiritual Warfare Embark on a supernatural journey to Tokyo in Ghostwire: Tokyo, where the streets are eerily cleared out, and devoid of traffic. This intriguing title poses a compelling scenario—what if almost everyone in the city transformed into a spirit? Wield newfound magical abilities to fight strange apparitions, all while immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of Japanese folklore. Ghostwire: Tokyo stands out as a captivating addition to the Extra tier.
Overcooked 2
Savory Success Quick, chaotic, and utterly hilarious—Overcooked 2 is a fabulous couch co-op game where players craft scrumptious meals on imaginative levels. The frenetic pace of the kitchen often devolves into a comedic mess, creating a delightful experience for players. Whether cooking in a dingy, underground mine or high in the clouds on a hot-air balloon, Overcooked 2 brings culinary chaos to new heights.
Tearaway Unfolded
Urgent Delivery Tearaway Unfolded, released almost a decade ago, remains a hidden gem in the PlayStation Plus Extra tier. This platformer features a colourful, construction-paper world brimming with whimsy. Players take on the task of transporting a message through an origami-filled environment, adding a layer of cuteness and creativity to this hella cute title.
PlayStation Plus stands as a gateway to a gaming utopia, offering diverse experiences across its three tiers. Whether you’re drawn to the budget-friendly Essential tier, the extensive library of the Extra tier, or the premium offerings of the Premium tier, PlayStation Plus continues to be a staple for gamers seeking quality and variety in their gaming pursuits. The best games on the PS5 subscription are not merely titles—they represent a diverse gaming landscape that caters to every player’s preferences and desires, ensuring that PlayStation Plus remains a leading force in the gaming industry.
