Is PS Plus changing?
In recent weeks, Sony has announced that the PlayStation Plus (PS Plus) subscription service is undergoing significant changes. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a hardcore enthusiast, understanding these changes is essential. In this article, we’ll dive into what’s changing, what you can expect, and answer your burning questions.
The Basics
Before diving into the specifics, it’s essential to understand that there are three tiers to the PS Plus subscription:
- PS Plus Essential: This is the most basic tier, costing £6.99 or $9.99 (USD) per month and includes online multiplayer, monthly games, and exclusive store sales.
- PS Plus Extra: At $10.99 per month or $99.99 per year, Extra includes all the benefits from the Essential tier, along with access to a comprehensive game library.
- PS Plus Premium: For $17.99 per month or $154.99 per year, Premium includes all the above, plus access to higher-end games, cloud remote play, and game boost, which enhances performance in some titles.
Upcoming Changes
Starting from September 6th, 2022 (yes, it has already happened!), the cost of PS Plus will increase. Here’s what you should know:
- 12 months of PS Plus Essential will cost $80
- 12 months of PS Plus Extra will cost $135
- 12 months of PS Plus Premium will cost $160
How Much Did Sony’s Decision Affect Active Users?
One thing is certain: game subscription services have become popular worldwide. Over 47 million gamers make up the PS Plus global active user base. Interestingly, the global game console shipment market increased by 32%, with 10.3 million units shipped in the first quarter of 2023.
What Does this Mean for Gamers?
While the $10, $20, and $40 (£8, £16, and £32) surges may not be pocket-changer-friendly, game subscription services are here to stay. Here’s an insight into the benefits (pun intended!):
| Level | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Essential ( PS Plus) | ∘ Online multiplayer ∘ Monthly games and discounts ∘ 10% off ps Store purchases |
| Extra ( PS Plus) | ∘ Online multiplayer ∘ Monthly games and discounts ∘ Game Library ( hundreds of more titles) ∘ 10% off PS Store purchases |
| Premium ( PS Plus) | ∘ Everything mentioned above ∘ Cloud Remote Play ∘ Game Boost Performance enhancement ∘ Three-hour trial for Sony classic games |
What Leaves and What Stays… or What’s Leaving!
Some 13 PS Plus Extra games (in September) will retire and leave the service ( Astebreed, Clouds and Sheep 2, Far Cry 4, Far Cry 5, Gal Gunvolt Burst, Goosebumps: The Game, Inside, Limbo, Naruto to Boruto: Shinobi Striker, The Crew, The Medium, Torquel). However, users have until October 17 to play and earn completion percentages for these titles!
Meanwhile, some Xbox fans need to say goodbye (temporary or not) 11 Xbox Game Pass games (in September).
In conclusion, the rising PS Plus prices are, quite frankly, a harsh blow for gamers. Noting the increase in prices won’t change the perception many gamers have about investing in subscription services. A brief look at the chart highlighting the tiered benefit highlights the substantial difference within levels.
If you exist in the PS Community, we invite you!: What are your takes on these changes? The next article, Who gets to enjoy PS Classic game trials?, is coming soon!
Remember, only an hour from now there won’t be any doubts whether PS Plus is changed – the verdict is clearly and firmly ‘yes!’, making this the perfect guide.