On June 13, 2022, Sony launched its new PlayStation Plus in North America. Split into three tiers, this model combines the previous version of PS Plus with PS Now; depending on which level someone subscribes to, they will gain access to certain services and games.
- PlayStation Plus Essential ($9.99/month): This tier is the equivalent of the old PS Plus. A subscription includes online access, monthly free games, and discounts.
- PlayStation Plus Extra ($14.99/month): Along with the Essential tier benefits, Extra provides access to hundreds of PS4 and PS5 games.
- PlayStation Plus Premium ($17.99/month): Along with the Essential and Extra tier benefits, Premium includes a library of classic games (PS3, PS2, PSP, and PS1), trials, and cloud streaming in certain regions.
PS Plus Premium has over 700 games covering more than two decades of PlayStation history. Such a huge collection can be overwhelming, and the PS Plus app does not make it very easy to browse through the library; as such, it can be useful to know this tier's highlights before investing in a subscription. Each month, Sony adds a handful of new games. While most of these are PS5 and PS4 releases, they are occasionally accompanied by a few classic titles.
What are the best games on PlayStation Plus?
Updated April 18, 2024: Sony has added April 2024's PS Plus Extra and Premium games, and the month's lineup is solid. Outside of one title that warrants a special mention, most of the new titles are mid-tier releases that are fun options but not necessarily headliners. The Crew 2 is far from a masterpiece, but there are worse open-world racers out there. Stray Blade is an accessible Soulslike that has good ideas and questionable execution. Tactical RPG fans should check out Miasma Chronicles, which might be the month's second most exciting arrival. On the Premium side of things, Alone in the Dark: The New Nightmare, MediEvil, and Star Wars: Rebel Assault 2: The Hidden Empire are all PS1 classics in their own right.
Each entry states whether the game is also accessible with a PS Plus Extra subscription. Also, if a game is on Amazon, a link to its listing page has been provided in case somebody prefers to own a physical copy.
PS Plus Essential April 2024 Free Games
Immortals Of Aveum, Minecraft Legends, & Skull: The Hero Slayer
Immortals of Aveum
- Platform(s)
- PC , PS5 , Xbox Series X , Xbox Series S
- Released
- August 22, 2023
- Developer(s)
- Ascendant Studios
- Genre(s)
- FPS
- Metascore
- 76
PS Plus Essential's monthly lineups have been good for a while now. Naturally, not every title will satisfy every subscriber, but the picks typically cover a wide enough range of gameplay styles and genres to cater to most preferences. The April 2024 free games are not exceptions, with all three included titles being worthwhile additions to most libraries. While not necessarily unknowns, two of the chosen games are somewhat obscure, so they are likely to be fresh experiences for many people. The third option is tied to one of the biggest IPs in gaming, so it might not be something new for quite a few PS Plus users.
PS Plus: A Comprehensive List Of Every Monthly Game It's Added
Since relaunching the subscription service in June 2022, Sony has added a host of games per month to PlayStation Plus Essential, Extra, and Premium.Immortals of Aveum came and went when it launched in August 2023, not leaving much of an impact on the wider gaming community. Even though it struggled commercially, the game garnered a decent reception, albeit the reviews might not have been positive enough to inspire people on the fence to invest in the EA project. Consequently, Immortals of Aveum is the perfect candidate for a service like PS Plus. Not only is it enjoyable, but it is likely to be a fresh experience for most people. Essentially, this title is a magic-based first-person shooter, and it executes that concept quite well.
The other "lesser-known" game is Skul: The Hero Slayer, an indie roguelike that sets itself apart from the crowd by featuring a head-based customization system. Skul unlocks new abilities by swapping his, well, skull, and he eventually unlocks an impressive range of options. The roguelike structure means that runs largely consists of running through similar stages on repeat, a routine that can get old after a while. However, the gameplay is solid and the skull system provides variety.
Minecraft needs no introduction, and its Legends spin-off takes a few of the main game's mechanics and adds a real-time strategy twist. Primarily catering to Minecraft fans, Legends is quite simple for its genre, which is not a bad thing since beginner-friendly strategy projects are far from common.
Dave The Diver
Metascore: 91
Dave the Diver
- PS Plus Availability
- Extra & Premium
- Developer(s)
- Mintrocket
- Genre(s)
- Simulation , Adventure
While not unheard of, Day 1 PS Plus arrivals are rare, with most months not featuring this type of release. Consequently, whenever an exception materializes, it is always a cause for celebration; more importantly, Dave the Diver is an exceptional exception. Technically, Mintrocket's indie darling has been around since 2023, but it had to wait until April 16, 2024 to make its PlayStation debut, so it still counts as a Day 1 addition. When this year comes to an end, Dave the Diver will almost certainly be remembered as one of the best PS Plus newcomers.
Combining restaurant management with fishing, Mintrocket created a package that feels oddly unique, despite sharing similarities with many other projects. As Dave, players have two general responsibilities: catch and serve fish. The former takes up the protagonist's days, forcing him to constantly make trips into an evolving ocean in search of materials that can be used to create sushi at his restaurant. Naturally, the nights are spent running the establishment, making sure that customers are satisfied. While the management aspect is not as deep as some other titles on the market, Dave the Diver gives players more than enough control to make these segments engaging. However, the fishing element is the game's highlight and adds the most replay value.
Resident Evil 2
Metascore: 91
Resident Evil 2 (2019)
- PS Plus Availability
- Extra & Premium
- Platform(s)
- PS4 , PS5 , Xbox One , Xbox Series X , Xbox Series S , PC
- Released
- January 25, 2019
- Developer(s)
- Capcom
- Genre(s)
- Horror
Resident Evil is without question the most famous horror franchise in gaming, and it is eternally linked to the PlayStation brand. Premium subscribers can play through a healthy selection of entries from Capcom's license, including classics such as Resident Evil Code: Veronica X, polarizing sequels like Resident Evil 6, and HD remasters of masterpieces like Resident Evil 4. The Extra tier does not have quite as robust of a catalog, although it includes two notable projects in 2019's Resident Evil 2 remake and its sequel. When the main entries successfully shifted to a first-person perspective with Resident Evil 7, some fans might have feared that could spell an end for classic third-person releases; fortunately, Capcom relaxed those anxieties with a couple of stellar remakes.
Resident Evil 2 (2019): Every Weapon, Ranked
As Leon and Claire fight their way through the zombie hordes in the remastered Resident Evil 2, which are their best choices for weapons to wield?2020's Resident Evil 3 is the weakest of Capcom's modern remakes, although it is still a solid action-horror game that does justice to the classic PS1 original. However, Resident Evil 2 is considerably more complete and satisfying, delivering a robust two-protagonist campaign that is consistently intense and terrifying. The controls are immaculate, the visuals are stunning, and the sound design is among the best in the genre – an argument could be made that Resident Evil 2 is almost the perfect horror game.
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
Metascore: 88
Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart
- PS Plus Availability
- Extra & Premium
- Released
- June 11, 2021
- Developer(s)
- Insomniac Games
- Genre(s)
- Platformer , Third-Person Shooter
Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart is among the most high-profile PS5 games available on PS Plus Extra. As a console exclusive, this reveal seemed destined to transpire sooner or later, although almost two years from the game's debut had to pass for this moment to arrive. Rift Apart might very well still be the most beautiful PS5 title on the market, a testament to Insomniac's mastery of technology and talent for creating vibrant and stunning worlds that would not look out of place in a Pixar movie.
Rift Apart backs up its good looks with fantastic gameplay and an enjoyable story that allows its lovable characters to shine. Although Ratchet and his robotic companion take center stage, they are accompanied by a new playable Lombax in the form of Rivet, who also comes with her own partner. In combat, the characters largely control the same; however, the game does a great job of establishing Rivet's own identity through her personality.
Ultimately, Ratchet & Clank lives and dies on the strength of its gameplay, and Rift Apart is right up there with the franchise's best efforts. Ratchet and Rivet have access to a wide assortment of fun weapons, all of which serve a purpose within the campaign.
Tales Of Arise
Metascore: 87
Tales of Arise
- PS Plus Availability
- Extra & Premium
- Platform(s)
- PC , PS4 , PS5 , Xbox One , Xbox Series X , Xbox Series S
- Released
- September 10, 2021
- Developer(s)
- Bandai Namco Studios
- Genre(s)
- Action RPG
JRPG fans with PS Plus subscriptions have a few Tales games at their fingertips, and they are all worth playing to an extent. The Premium tier's Symphonia and Vesperia are rightfully hailed as classics, with both being prime contenders for the franchise's best projects. However, their ages shine through at times, particularly Symphonia. While the core experience is great by most metrics, the remastered version of the game is somewhat lackluster; furthermore, the combat can be difficult to get into if someone is mainly familiar with modern action RPGs, including later entries in this franchise. That said, it is still worth playing. Vesperia has aged better than Symphonia, and the Definitive Edition lives up to its name. The campaign gets off to a fairly slow start, but it picks up steam around the 15-hour mark.
The Extra tier has Zestiria and Arise. The former is perhaps the most polarizing entry in the franchise due to taking a few risks that do not fully pay off. That said, Zestiria is still enjoyable for the most part. In comparison, Tales of Arise is a far easier recommendation, along with serving as the perfect entry point into the IP for newcomers. Featuring an addictive and accessible hack and slash combat system, Arise has a strong selection of playable characters, all of which have their own nuances that make them worth trying out. Narratively, the game is one of the more mature entries in the franchise, tackling themes like discrimination. Vesperia arguably tells a superior overall story, but Arise is no slouch in this area.
13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim
Metascore: 85
13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim
- PS Plus Availability
- Extra & Premium
- Released
- September 22, 2020
- Developer(s)
- Vanillaware
- Genre(s)
- Adventure , Strategy
Quite a few Vanillaware games are on PS Plus, and they are all worth playing. 13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim is unlike anything else available on the streaming service, even if it does take ideas from a few different genres. Basically, this anime-inspired mecha title largely plays out like a visual novel, albeit with an integrated combat system to provide more interactivity than typical for this type of project. Narratively, the game revolves around teenagers who pilot robots to take on huge beasts, which is a description that makes the story sound more generic than it actually is. 13 Sentinels does an impressive job of exploring its characters, shining a light on each of its 13 pilots. The campaign is long, well-written, and ambitious.
The turn-based strategy combat works well without being too demanding or complicated. Even though it prioritizes its story, the game does not treat the battle system as an afterthought either, and a satisfying progression system helps keep things moving along well. 13 Sentinels could be considered an acquired taste since it combines two niche genres in visual novels and strategy games, but the project should be tried by all PS Plus subscribers since it provides such a singular experience.
Kena: Bridge Of Spirits
Metascore: 81
AA games have become fairly uncommon in recent years, but when they do show up, they tend to be quite special. Kena: Bridge of Spirits is gorgeous considering it was developed by a relatively small team, and pretty graphics are far from the only thing this game gets right. The story follows a spirit guide who must free souls in order to stop the spread of corruption, which is slowly corroding a peaceful and beautiful village. As far as premises are concerned, Kena is nothing too unusual; however, the game creates a world overflowing with personality, both in terms of environmental detail and NPCs.
7 Best Abilities In Kena: Bridge Of Spirits
Kena: Bridge of Spirits has a fairly simple system for abilities. However, even so, some are just a bit more useful than others.Following a classic action-adventure formula, Kena incorporates exploration, combat, platforming, and puzzles. While not bringing anything substantially new to any of these elements, Ember Labs generally does an admirable job in each area. The gameplay does suffer from the occasional difficulty spike when it comes to the story's bosses, but the fights themselves are largely enjoyable.
Wolfenstein 2: The New Colossus
Metascore: 87
Wolfenstein 2: The New Colossus
PS Plus Extra has all four modern Wolfenstein games, and the best one is arguably The New Colossus. Building nicely on The New Order's strong foundations, the sequel is bigger and generally better. Featuring an all-time great villain and an appreciation for scale and spectacle, The New Colossus is an action-packed blockbuster that looks, controls, and sounds great.
PS Plus does not have an overabundance of brilliant first-person shooters, but MachineGames' mainline Wolfenstein trilogy is now available in its entirety to Extra and Premium subscribers. When taken as a whole, these games are arguably the genre's best representatives on the service. William "B.J." Blazkowicz's journey is one filled with visceral action, gore, stealth kills, satisfying weapons, and glorious set pieces that put many Hollywood productions to shame. For the most part, these games tell entertaining stories that usually have just the right amount of cheese without coming across as try-hard.
Rogue Legacy 2
Metascore: 90
Rogue Legacy 2
- PS Plus Availability
- Extra & Premium
- Platform(s)
- PC , PS4 , PS5 , Switch , Xbox One , Xbox Series X , Xbox Series S
- Released
- April 28, 2022
- Developer(s)
- Cellar Door Games
- Genre(s)
- Roguelike , Metroidvania
Roguelikes have grown exponentially in popularity over the last few years, and Rogue Legacy played a role in amplifying the genre's exposure. The sequel builds nicely on its predecessor's ideas, offering a more fine-tuned experience while not deviating too far from the beaten path.
Rogue Legacy 2 follows a knight as they try to power through an array of dungeons in pursuit of treasure. Naturally, they will eventually die, forcing players to start from scratch. The twist is that, rather than playing with the same character, players jump to the next generation, a process that is repeated whenever death comes knocking. Rogue Legacy 2 also slips into roguelite territory by incorporating permeant upgrades and abilities, so a new run is not a completely fresh start.
Uncharted: Legacy Of Thieves Collection
Metascore: 87
Uncharted: Legacy of Thieves Collection
- PS Plus Availability
- Extra & Premium
- Released
- January 28, 2022
- Developer(s)
- Naughty Dog , Iron Galaxy
- Genre(s)
- Adventure , Third-Person Shooter
Before March 2023, PS Plus Extra subscribers could already play the PS4's Uncharted 4: A Thief's End and its spin-off, The Lost Legacy; however, the Legacy of Thieves Collection presents PS5 owners with the ultimate versions of Naughty Dog's beloved action-adventure games. Now, to be clear, this package does not remaster the titles in many significant ways, at least when it comes to the graphics.
14 of the Best PlayStation Exclusives, Ranked by Completion Rate
These big-budget PlayStation exclusives are all critical darlings, but which of them have the highest rates of completion among those who played them?The main reason PS5 owners should play these iterations is due to their performance options, as they allow the games to run at a higher frame rate. Ultimately, if someone has already played through the entirety of Uncharted, they might not find much of a reason to return for the Legacy of Thieves Collection.
Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales
Metascore: 85
Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales
- PS Plus Availability
- Extra & Premium
- Released
- November 12, 2020
- Developer(s)
- Insomniac Games
- Genre(s)
- Action , Adventure
Insomniac Games' repertoire speaks for itself, and the developer's current focus is on Marvel's Wall-Crawler. 2018's Marvel's Spider-Man is a great open-world game with satisfying movement, acrobatic free-flowing combat, and a respectable narrative; unfortunately, on May 16, the game will leave PS Plus. However, at the moment, Miles Morales is not set to follow suit. Although it feels more like an expansion than a proper follow-up, the spin-off retains all of its predecessor's strengths, including the best web-swinging mechanics in gaming.
16 Best Quotes From Spider-Man: Miles Morales
Spider-Man: Miles Morales is turning out to be a massive hit among PlayStation fans, and the game is predictably filled with incredible quotes.Miles Morales establishes its eponymous protagonist as a viable alternative to Peter Parker, expanding on the character's backstory and personality for players who might not be familiar with Miles' comic version. Short as it might be compared to the main entry, the game tells an engaging story that focuses on the hero's dual life, something he is only just starting to come to grips with since he is still new to this whole Spider-Man thing.
Inscryption
Metascore: 87
Roguelikes have taken over the indie scene over the last decade, and PS Plus has quite a few of the genre's heavy hitters. Dead Cells, Enter the Gungeon, and Slay the Spire are all fantastic projects that can keep someone entertained for months on end, and they are all fairly popular in their own right. While perhaps not as well known as those titles, Inscryption deserves to be mentioned alongside them, although it is unlike most other roguelikes on the market.
For one, the game focuses quite a bit on its story, one that comes with a few shocking and well-executed twists that will not be spoiled here. Gameplay-wise, Inscryption plays out like a tabletop card game with a deck-building mechanic. Although not especially unique, this system is polished, fun, and works well; more importantly, it is just part of a much larger whole.
Horizon Forbidden West
Metascore: 88
Almost exactly a year following its debut, Horizon Forbidden West came to PS Plus Extra. While there is way too little data to try and pinpoint a trend, this addition could be an indication of how Sony plans to handle first-party projects moving forward.
Horizon Forbidden West tells the next chapter in Aloy's story, and Guerrilla Games largely opted to fine-tune the original game's mechanics. With a bigger open-world, refined combat, and a better-paced campaign, the sequel presents a convincing argument that it surpasses its predecessor. Combined, HZD and HFW can easily keep players entertained for more than 100 hours.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge
Metascore: 85
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder's Revenge
- PS Plus Availability
- Extra & Premium
- Platform(s)
- Android , iOS , PC , PS5 , PS4 , Switch , Xbox Series X , Xbox Series S , Xbox One
- Released
- June 16, 2022
- Developer(s)
- Tribute Games Inc.
- Genre(s)
- Beat 'Em Up
While not without a few low points, TMNT has a long and storied history in gaming. The property is predominantly known for its '90s beat 'em ups, with games like Turtles in Time holding up well today. Shredder's Revenge pays homage to these classics, all the while delivering an approachable experience capable of attracting people who did not grow up in arcades. Boasting a vibrant and gorgeous pixel art style, the 2022 release matches cartoonish visuals with flashy combat that is easy to grasp but surprisingly difficult to master.
With seven playable characters who are not palette swaps, Shredder's Revenge is quite replayable, which makes up for its fairly short campaign. Although solo players will not feel like they are missing out, the TMNT game supports and shines in co-op, allowing up to 6 people to work together to take on the Foot Clan.
The Legend Of Dragoon
Metascore: 74
The Legend of Dragoon
- PS Plus Availability
- Premium
- Released
- June 14, 2000
- Developer(s)
- JapanStudio
- Genre(s)
- JRPG
A beloved PS1 cult classic that JRPG fans have spent years hoping would receive a remake or a sequel, The Legend of Dragoon is, at least, now accessible on modern consoles. Ambitious for its era, Japan Studio's project had great visuals, which are still charming in their own way. Although not too far removed from the genre's other late '90s releases, the game's turn-based combat system has a few unique features that set it apart from the crowd. For instance, players need to time button prompts during attack animations to earn a boost.
The Legend of Dragoon is one of the best games on PS Plus Premium. Hopefully, the service will continue to add these sorts of titles in the future.
The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim - Special Edition
Metascore: 81
Skyrim has been around for more than a decade, and yet the game is still a big deal. From November 15, PS Plus Extra and Premium subscribers can take on the mantle of the Dragonborn and start their journey in Skyrim. The Special Edition is generally considered the definitive iteration of Bethesda's masterpiece, and the 2016 release was included in 2021's Anniversary Edition that came out on the PS5 and Xbox Series X/S.
Skyrim: The 31 Best Armor Enchantments, Ranked
With over 30 apparel enchantments available, Skyrim players are spoiled for choice. Here are the best armor enchantments, ranked.Skyrim's longevity lies in its ability to immerse players in a fully realized world that makes exploration fun and satisfying. The combat might be a bit dated compared to more recent RPGs, but the game makes up for it through customization and build options. Even if most people have already experienced everything the campaign has to offer, Skyrim debuting on PS Plus makes the service's library seem more complete.
Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade
Metascore: 89
Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade is a huge get for PS Plus Extra subscribers, particularly those who love action JRPGs. The 1997 original helped put the PS1 on the map, and while the remake takes quite a few creative liberties with both the story and gameplay, it still respectfully pays homage to FF7's legacy. Focusing on Midgar, the modern game chronicles Cloud Strife's early days as part of AVALANCHE, showcasing the resistance group's attempts to undermine Shinra's authority.
Over the last decade, Square Enix has firmly shifted towards real-time action over turn-based combat, and FF7 Remake serves as the strongest representative of this gameplay style. As a sequel, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, was released in February 2024, newcomers should jump into the first part before investing in the continuation.
Dragon Ball FighterZ
Metascore: 87
Dragon Ball FighterZ
- PS Plus Availability
- Extra & Premium
- Platform(s)
- PS4 , Xbox One , Switch , PC , PS5 , Xbox Series X , Xbox Series S
- Released
- January 26, 2018
- Developer(s)
- Arc System Works
- Genre(s)
- Fighting
There are roughly a billion Dragon Ball games, and some of them are pretty great. However, for the longest time, the franchise seemed incapable of putting out a proper competitive fighter. Dragon Ball FighterZ changed that forever, with Arc crafting a project that could show up in eSports events alongside Street Fighter 5 and Super Smash Bros. Melee.
Dragon Ball is synonymous with flashy battles where a wayward ki blast could potentially blow up a planet, and FighterZ captures this element beautifully. Visually, the game not only echoes the source material but, at times, even looks better. Unlike some of Arc's other fantastic games, FighterZ's combat system is relatively easy to grasp, although it is still hard to master. The single-player campaign is split into three non-canon arcs, and, while enjoyable from a fan-service point of view, overstays its welcome. However, Dragon Ball FighterZ is all about its online scene.
Ghost Of Tsushima: Director's Cut
Metascore: 87
Ghost of Tsushima
- PS Plus Availability
- Extra & Premium
- Released
- July 17, 2020
- Developer(s)
- Sucker Punch
- Genre(s)
- Action , Adventure
Insomniac's Ghost of Tsushima ended the PS4's life as Sony's main console on a high, and the Director's Cut is just a better version of that already great game. Taking place during the Mongolian invasion of Japan, This samurai epic tells a tale of revenge as Jin Sakai seeks to protect Tsushima Island.
11 Best Armor Sets In Ghost Of Tsushima (& How To Get Them)
Armor is a fun way to customize how Jin looks in Ghost of Tsushima. Check out the best armor sets in the game - and how you can get them!Ghost of Tsushima might be the most beautiful game on PS Plus Premium, and it is not just a looker. The hack and slash combat is a great deal of fun, managing to be deep and also cinematic. Narratively, the title does not do anything too out of the ordinary, but the unique setting helps set GOT apart from the many other open-world games on the market.
Dragon Quest 11 S: Echoes Of An Elusive Age
Metascore: 91
While the Heroes and Builders spin-offs that are on PS Plus Extra are enjoyable, Dragon Quest 11 S is on a whole other level as it is one of the best JRPGs on the PS4. Set in a vibrant world brimming with style and personality, DQ11 delivers familiar but addictive turn-based combat, lovable characters, and a simple but effective storyline.
Rather than reinventing a wheel that has never been broken, DQ11 opts to modernize mechanics and concepts that have been successful for decades. Ultimately, this game just proves that Dragon Quest is timeless. The version on PS Plus Extra expands on the vanilla release in a few neat ways too, including a 16-bit mode.
Returnal
Metascore: 86
Returnal
- PS Plus Availability
- Extra & Premium
- Released
- April 30, 2021
- Developer(s)
- Housemarque
- Genre(s)
- Third-Person Shooter
Housemarque is well represented by PS Plus Premium, with games like Resogun and Alienation being included in the service. As great as those releases are, the studio's crowning achievement is Returnal, a sci-fi PS5 roguelike that delves into horror territory. The third-person shooter centers around Selene, a pilot who becomes stuck on a planet and within a time loop.
As tends to be the case with this genre, death means going back to square one, although Returnal dives its story into halves that serve as respawn checkpoints. One of the best PS5 games on PS Plus Premium and Extra, Returnal justifies a subscription on its own.
Undertale
Metascore: 92
The 2010s was the decade of indie games, so much so that it is near impossible to select the independent scene's crowning achievement for that period. That said, Undertale is undoubtedly one of the top contenders. Inspired by the Mother series, Toby Fox's RPG follows a child as they explore the Underground, a seemingly typical monster-filled setting for the genre. Obviously, players can decide to adhere to RPG tradition and massacre everything that moves, but they do not have to do that. Undertale does not force anyone to play a certain way, and players can follow a few different routes.
Undertale: 8 Things We Wish We Knew Before Starting The True Pacifist Route
Not killing all the monsters can sometimes be quite challenging. Undertale's true pacifist route can be made easier with a bit of knowledge going in.Blending meta-commentary with nuanced world-building and a strong narrative, Undertale is the full package. Anyone remotely interested in RPGs or just gaming in general should give this seminal project a try, and the game's player-driven structure means multiple playthroughs are encouraged.
Assassin's Creed Odyssey
Metascore: 83
Assassin's Creed Odyssey
- PS Plus Availability
- Extra & Premium
- Released
- October 15, 2018
- Developer(s)
- Ubisoft Quebec
- Genre(s)
- Action RPG , Open-World
PS Plus Extra has a plethora of Assassin's Creed games, permitting players to pick their favorite setting. The Ezio Collection tells arguably the franchise's best story, but the trilogy's gameplay is a bit dated at this point. Origins marked a turning point for Ubisoft's series, reshaping the combat to be more action-oriented. Set it Ancient Egypt, Origins is a very good pick and one of the most popular open-world games of the 2010s.
Odyssey builds on Origins' ideas while introducing a few twists of its own. Set in Ancient Greece, the 2018 game might have the most gorgeous world in the franchise, and that includes Valhalla. The loot system can be overwhelming, but Odyssey does provide players with plenty of options. The combat is, for the most part, great, and the game is even challenging in places.
Disco Elysium - The Final Cut
Metascore: 89
Disco Elysium
- PS Plus Availability
- Extra & Premium
- Platform(s)
- PC , PS5 , PS4 , Xbox One , Xbox Series X , Xbox Series S , Stadia
- Released
- October 15, 2019
- Developer(s)
- ZA/UM
- Genre(s)
- RPG
ZA/UM's Disco Elysium shows that an RPG does not need traditional combat to be incredible. Telling a detective story that thoroughly explores its protagonist's psyche, Disco Elysium is unlike anything else on PS Plus, and it should be tried by everyone despite being somewhat of an acquired taste.
Focusing on dialogue, the campaign is drenched in clever world-building and subtle characterization, and the game grants players agency in determining the story's progression. Disco Elysium can be slow-moving in places since so much time is dedicated to reading text or listening to the dialogue; fortunately, the actual quality of the writing cannot be disputed.
Twisted Metal 2
Metascore: N/A
Twisted Metal 2
Twisted Metal is a glorious blast from the past. Sony's vehicular combat series enjoyed a consistent run on the PS1, and while its output slowed down considerably after that point, the PS2's Black and the PS3's self-titled entry were fantastic successors by most metrics. Since 2012, Sony has basically ignored Twisted Metal; even then, hope continues to linger that a sequel or remake could be announced sooner rather than later.
Every Twisted Metal Game, Ranked
With the announcement of a live-action TV show, Twisted Metal is back. The PlayStation franchise has produced plenty of games, but which is the best?At the moment, PS Plus Premium has the first two entries in the series. While the original title is by no means bad, Twisted Metal 2 improves on it in nearly every way, providing superior gameplay, locations, and even a better story. Now, newcomers who did not grow up with Sweet Tooth need to go in with realistic expectations since the game's age is obvious, especially when it comes to the controls for the cars. Still, Twisted Metal 2 is still and will likely always be fun.
Rayman Legends
Metascore: 90
It has been almost a decade since the last non-mobile Rayman game, and Ubisoft has not shown any indication that a new title is in the works. Rayman Legends was one of the best platformers of the 2010s, and it has not aged a day since its debut. Building on the impeccable foundations of 2011's Rayman Origins, Legends takes players on a fast-paced adventure that offers more than a hundred levels, along with supporting co-op.
Gameplay-wise, Rayman Legends barely sets a foot wrong, and the tight controls elevate the masterful level design. The game is also quite challenging, and the campaign does not wait too long to ramp up its difficulty.
Marvel’s Midnight Suns
Metascore: 81
Midnight Suns
- PS Plus Availability
- Extra & Premium
- Platform(s)
- PC , PS4 , PS5 , Xbox One , Xbox Series X
- Released
- December 2, 2022
- Developer(s)
- Firaxis Games
- Genre(s)
- Tactical
Marvel’s Midnight Suns fills in a couple of blindspots on PS Plus Extra. For one, the tier only has a couple of superhero-themed games, especially when it comes to Marvel stuff (although there are some great options). More importantly, the subscription service is not exactly overflowing with tactical RPGs, and there are even fewer games that are likely to attract newcomers who are not familiar with these types of releases. Even though Midnight Suns can rely on its license's mainstream appeal, the genre's niche status could put off people who don't gravitate toward the likes of X-COM.
Consequently, Midnight Suns' PS Plus availability could open up tactical RPGs to a fresh audience, and it is one of the genre's better gateway options as the combat system does not utilize RNG too heavily. To be clear, the battle system has plenty of depth to keep strategy veterans busy, and it cleverly implements a deck-building element that adds plenty of replay and customization value. The story is also decent, and the Marvel heroes are generally presented well.
Kingdom Hearts Franchise
Metascore: 85 (Kingdom Hearts)
Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 + 2.5 ReMIX
PS Plus Extra users have a plethora of Kingdom Hearts games at their disposal; basically, subscribers can play through most of the story, although a few small releases are missing. The service has the following titles:
- Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 +2.5 ReMIX – Contains four full games and two cutscene compilations
- Kingdom Hearts HD 2.8 Final Chapter Prologue – Contains one full game, a prologue for Kingdom Hearts 3, and a cutscene compilation movie
- Kingdom Hearts 3
- Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory
If someone were to play through all these projects, they would be looking at over 100 hours of content, and that is only if they focused on the main stories and generally ignored the side content and post-game fights. Individually, Kingdom Hearts are all, at the minimum, good games, and many of them are action RPGs with stylish combat built on a plethora of rewarding systems (Birth by Sleep especially).
Newcomers should start with 2002's Kingdom Hearts if they want any hope of following the lore. While not quite as flashy or complex as its sequels, the original game's combat is nevertheless rock-solid, and it is enhanced by a fairly difficult campaign. After that, players will probably want to just follow Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 +2.5 ReMIX's order of games. The quality fluctuates from release to release, but each entry has something to offer, be it a novel battle system (Re:Chain of Memories) or fantastic visuals (Kingdom Hearts 3).
Mortal Kombat 11
Metascore: 82
Mortal Kombat 11
- PS Plus Availability
- Extra & Premium
- Platform(s)
- Stadia , PS4 , PS5 , Xbox One , Xbox Series S , Xbox Series X , PC , Switch
- Released
- April 23, 2019
- Developer(s)
- NetherRealm Studios
- Genre(s)
- Fighting
NetherRealm's Mortal Kombat 11 serves as a vicious continuation of the good work done by Mortal Kombat 9 and 10. Unlike its immediate predecessor, MK11 comes with an enjoyable single-player campaign that delivers the type of over-the-top action and silliness that fans of the franchise have come to expect. It should do a decent job of introducing players to the game's mechanics, although newcomers should definitely spend a few hours in MK11's tutorial mode. It is one of the best in the genre.
Mortal Kombat lives and dies on the strength of its multiplayer scene, and the 2019 entry is still active all these years after its debut. Supporting co-op and online play, the multiplayer includes plenty of customization options for those looking to add a touch of personality to their chosen fighter.
Celeste
Metascore: 91
Celeste
Celeste is a highly regarded side-scrolling indie game with a steep learning curve and an absorbing narrative. As Madeline, players climb the Celeste mountain, taking on seemingly impossible challenges and dangerous foes in the process.
Celeste's campaign guides the character and players on an emotional journey of self-discovery. This voyage is not meant to be easy, and the game makes sure that it is not. The unforgettable story is accompanied by precise gameplay and a soundtrack that ranks among the most memorable of the late 2010s.
Death Stranding: Director's Cut
Metascore: 85
Death Stranding
- PS Plus Availability
- Extra & Premium
- Released
- November 8, 2019
- Developer(s)
- Kojima Productions
- Genre(s)
- Action
If nothing else, Hideo Kojima can be relied upon to deliver something that is unlike anything else on the market. Death Stranding is an open-world game set in a post-apocalyptic United States, and the player's goal is to deliver packages and build a communication system. This entails walking across inhospitable terrain while desperately trying to balance boxes to ensure they don't smash on the floor.
The Scariest Post-Apocalyptic Games, Ranked
While the apocalyptic trope in the horror genre is very popular, it's still one of the scariest tropes in the survival horror genre.Death Stranding is not for everyone, and that's perfectly fine. However, if the game clicks with someone, there is nothing else quite like it. Even with its unapologetically bizarre story and the occasional intense encounter, Death Stranding can be a meditative experience when putting one foot in front of the other is the only thing the player has to worry about.
God Of War
Metascore: 94
God of War (2018)
- PS Plus Availability
- Released
- April 20, 2018
- Developer(s)
- Santa Monica Studio
- Genre(s)
- Action , Adventure
There are a handful of PS Plus games that everyone with an account should play, and 2018's God of War should be at the top of that list. This "reboot" of the series sees Kratos living in a different part of the world, far from the Greecian roots players are used to seeing him in.
The 10 Best Armor Sets in God of War (& How to Craft Them)
God of War allows players to deck Kratos out in some great armor. Here, we take a look at some of the best armor sets available in the game.Kratos' move to Midgard gave developers a chance to shine a spotlight on some different gods, tapping into the deep Scandinavian folklore surrounding the Norse Gods and their mythology. With RPG elements, an incredible story, breathtaking visuals, and some awesome combat mechanics, God of War is a must-play PS Plus game.
Life Is Strange Complete Season
Metascore: 85
Life is Strange
Life is Strange takes place in Arcadia Bay, a quiet town with a tragic future ahead of it. Max learns of this upcoming disaster through a vision, prompting her to take steps to try and limit the damage. She can also rewind time, a power she makes good use of throughout the story's five chapters.
Beautifully written and emotionally complex, Life is Strange immerses players in not only its world but also Max's life. While gameplay largely revolves around dialogue choices and exploration, players have a fair amount of influence on the narrative's progression, which makes it easy to get invested. Before the Storm is also on PS Plus Extra, and it is worth playing in order to get more insight into Chloe's character.
Hotline Miami
Metascore: 87
Hotline Miami
- PS Plus Availability
- Premium
- Platform(s)
- Android , PC , PS3 , PS4 , PS Vita , Switch , Xbox One , PS5 , Xbox Series X , Xbox Series S
- Released
- October 23, 2012
- Developer(s)
- Dennaton Games
- Genre(s)
- Shooter
The 2010s was a big decade for the independent scene, and Hotline Miami not only got in early but was also one of the most memorable games of that period. The title casts players as a nameless protagonist on a mission to eradicate the local mafia, a journey he embraces without much hesitation.
Split into multiple stages, Hotline Miami generally tasks players with killing everyone who happens to make an appearance. From a pure gameplay perspective, Hotline Miami is a relentless thrill ride with barely a dull moment, and clearing levels is satisfying since the game punishes mistakes severely. Thematically, the title provides a fascinating deconstruction of video games and action movies.
Fallout: New Vegas
Metascore: 82
Fallout: New Vegas
- PS Plus Availability
- Premium
- Released
- October 19, 2010
- Developer(s)
- Obsidian Entertainment
- Genre(s)
- RPG
While there is a trio of Fallout games available on PS Plus Premium, it feels right to feature New Vegas as the standout of the group. Although it might not feature the refined combat and gameplay experience of Fallout 4, New Vegas stands as one of the best story-driven RPGs ever made.
Obsidian Entertainment spent a lot of time developing the world of New Vegas and then filled it with a wide array of entertaining NPCs, giving players a playground of story-based quests to interact with. There are so many small details to be found in New Vegas and the subsequent DLC released for the game added many more.
XCOM 2
Metascore: 87
The sequel to 2012's XCOM: Enemy Unknown, XCOM 2 introduces an Earth that lost the war against the alien invaders. Now, players are part of a scattered resistance group that is fighting an uphill battle against an all-powerful regime.
10 Behind-The-Scenes Facts You Never Knew About The XCOM Franchise
Since debuting in 1994, XCOM has been through a lot. Here are 10 lesser-known behind-the-scenes facts about the sci-fi franchise.XCOM 2 improves upon its predecessor in nearly every way, an accomplishment that definitely didn't come easy. The turn-based tactical combat is punishing but fair, and on higher difficulties, players must carefully plan each move or they will soon find themselves overwhelmed. While newcomers should consider starting with XCOM: Enemy Within, which is also on PS Plus Premium, XCOM 2 is quite accessible as a sequel.
The Last Of Us: Remastered
Metascore: 95
The Last of Us: Remastered
- PS Plus Availability
- Premium
- Platform(s)
- PS4
- Released
- July 29, 2014
- Developer(s)
- Naughty Dog
- Genre(s)
- Horror
While the PlayStation 3 had a somewhat slow start to life, the console bowed out in style. Naughty Dog's The Last of Us is a haunting action-adventure game set in a post-apocalyptic world overrun with infected creatures. The narrative follows the grizzled Joel and the immune Ellie as they travel across the United States in search of a group rumored to be able to craft a cure.
The journey is tough, brutal, and unforgettable. Both of the main characters undergo a great deal of development, particularly Joel, while The Last of Us raises questions of morality through its ambiguous storyline.
Bloodborne
Metascore: 92
Bloodborne
- PS Plus Availability
- Extra & Premium
- Platform(s)
- PS4
- Released
- March 24, 2015
- Developer(s)
- From Software
FromSoftware has cornered the hard-hitting action RPG genre through its immaculate Dark Souls trilogy, and that looks set to continue with Elden Ring. Out of all the studio's many great games, Bloodborne might just be FromSoftware's magnum opus.
Boasting a Gothic aesthetic and reflex-based combat that demands aggression from players, Bloodborne delivers a kinetic experience that delights on a visual, auditory, and gameplay level. Naturally, Bloodborne is not an easy game, but it is one of the most rewarding PS4 exclusives. Consequently, it is easily among the best games on PS Plus.
Both versions of Demon's Souls are also on PS Plus.
Doom
Metascore: 85
DOOM (2016)
Following more than a decade of near-complete inactivity, Doom came roaring back onto the scene with a majestically violent entry that reminded the world of this franchise's awesomeness. As the Doom Slayer, players rampage their way through arenas and hallways filled with demons that are just waiting to be sawed in half or blasted with a shotgun, and delivering judgment feels good time and time again.
28 Brutal Games Like Doom You Need To Play
Doom may be one of the most brutal games out there, but for anyone looking for a similar experience, any of these games would be a great choice!All thrills and no filler, Doom does not have a quiet moment in it, serving as a proper throwback to classic shooters from the '90s. There is no hiding behind cover here; diving headfirst into combat is the only way to survive. Doom is the gaming equivalent of an adrenaline shot.
Slay The Spire
Metascore: 88
PS Plus Extra and Premium have well over 500 games, so a lack of variety is not an issue. Slay the Spire shares similarities with quite a few other titles, but it combines everything in a way that sets it apart from any of its peers. The game is a roguelike deck-builder that asks players to work their way through a dungeon, with each floor containing a few enemy encounters leading to a boss fight. So far, so simple; however, battles reward players with new cards, ensuring there is a constant sense of progression.
The turn-based encounters utilize a random draw system that asks players to pick a card while rejecting the rest of their hand, creating a rhythm that constantly forces someone to take risks since they cannot horde useful options for the future. The battle mechanics are surprisingly deep, and their flexibility is taken a step further thanks to Slay the Spire's multiple playable characters. These classes come with their own nuances and help expand the game's replayability.
Rise Of The Tomb Raider
Metascore: 88
Considering Lara Croft's association with PlayStation, PS Plus is severely lacking in Tomb Raider, with none of the classic projects or the 2000s releases making the cut. Thankfully, the survivor era has representation. Rebooted in 2013 with the fantastic Tomb Raider, these games are somewhat gritty takes on the franchise's traditional formula, featuring gameplay reminiscent of the Uncharted series. All three titles are good-to-great, and newcomers should play through the full story to get the most out of the experience.
7 Hardest Tomb Raider Games, Ranked
The Tomb Raider series is known for many things, one of which is the difficulty of the games. They range from reasonable to brutally challenging.Rise of the Tomb Raider is the most complete package out of the three. It has a solid story by the license's standards, a strong and fairly open setting that provides plenty of room for exploration, pretty good gunplay, and engaging puzzles. Compared to 2013's entry, the sequel has a better selection of tombs, even if they might not quite reach the standards set by the best PS1 projects. Rise of the Tomb Raider is also quite a looker, and the game has aged incredibly well considering it is nearly a decade old by this point.
Batman: Arkham Asylum
Metascore: 91
PS Plus Premium has Return to Arkham, a PS4 collection containing remasters of Arkham Asylum and Arkham City. Even though these re-releases garnered some criticism, they are still a decent way to experience two of the greatest action games of all time. PS Plus Extra members can also play Arkham Knight.
Arkham City is, in many ways, superior to Asylum. Along with improving the melee combat, the sequel expands its playground significantly while offering more side content for those willing to look for it. That said, Arkham Asylum's streamlined approach results in a better-paced main storyline. Furthermore, the game is the most immersive title in Rocksteady's trilogy due to its more claustrophobic world design. That said, one cannot really go wrong with any of these masterpieces.
Hollow Knight: Voidheart Edition
Metascore: 85
Hollow Knight has earned its glowing reputation. Team Cherry's Metroidvania is rich in lore, visuals, style, and gameplay. As new players enter the strange dream-like realm that is Hallownest, they will stumble upon sights that could fill them with either wonder or fear. Throughout their journey, they will meet NPCs who need help or are willing to lend a hand. However, they will also face countless enemies and bosses who have their own stories to tell.
Hollow Knight is a masterpiece and one of the best PS Plus games. Even if its opening hours can be a bit overwhelming or confusing, the title opens up quite quickly.
God Of War 2 HD
Metascore (PS2 Version): 93
God of War 2
- PS Plus Availability
- Premium (HD Version)
- Released
- March 13, 2007
- Developer(s)
- Santa Monica Studio
- Genre(s)
- Action
Unsurprisingly, the entire God of War franchise can be played through PS Plus Premium, although most of the games can only be streamed. Nevertheless, Sony's subscription service is a great way for newcomers to Santa Monica's series to experience Kratos' full story. While 2018's God of War is not a terrible entry point since it marks a new era in the franchise, the pre-PS4 releases are nearly all highly enjoyable action games, particularly the numbered entries.
God of War 2 marks the pinnacle of the license's original run, arguably doing a better job of balancing epic action and storytelling nuance than either its predecessor or sequel. Expertly paced and boasting some of the best boss fights in gaming history, God of War 2 is nothing short of brilliant.
Dead Cells
Metascore: 87
The independent gaming scene is flooded with 2D Metroidvanias, some of which rank among the most memorable projects of the last decade. Even in that elite group, Dead Cells manages to stand out as something extra special. A roguelike that takes inspiration from FromSoftware's Souls games, Motion Twin's title delivers satisfying combat, unforgettable boss fights, and a gameplay loop that encourages a "one more run" mentality.
Although death sends players back to start, they can purchase permanent items to make subsequent runs a bit easier. Utilizing randomly-generated levels that ensure each playthrough comes with a unique flavor, Dead Cells is the type of game that can keep a PS Plus subscriber busy for months on end.
Until Dawn
Metascore: 79
Until Dawn
- PS Plus Availability
- Extra & Premium
- Platform(s)
- PS4
- Released
- August 25, 2015
- Developer(s)
- Supermassive Games
- Genre(s)
- Horror
Horror fans looking for something a little "different" will definitely want to check out Until Dawn. The release does a great job of blending together a gripping narrative with player choice, character interactions, and some seriously creepy environments. The end result is a spectacularly spooky "playable movie" that will have most players on the edge of their seats throughout.
The Quarry Vs Until Dawn: Which Is Supermassive's Best Game?
The Quarry is the deemed spiritual successor to Until Dawn, but how does each game fare against the other?Much like Telltale's series of games, players will be forced to make tough choices during tense story moments. These decisions will have a direct influence on the story, as characters develop ideas about one another. Making decisions quickly, and correctly, is key to helping everyone survive a terrifying vacation to a remote mountain resort.
Control: Ultimate Edition
Metascore: 85
Control
- PS Plus Availability
- Extra & Premium
- Platform(s)
- PC , PS4 , PS5 , Switch , Xbox Series X , Xbox Series S , Xbox One
- Released
- August 27, 2019
- Developer(s)
- Remedy Entertainment
- Genre(s)
- Action
Remedy Entertainment's portfolio is defined by games that seek to push the industry forward, be it on a technical or narrative level. While its central story might not be as strong as Alan Wake's, Control is the studio's most complete release of the 2010s, mainly due to its combat system and world-building. Inspired by stories found on the SCP Foundation site, the game takes place in a government building that deals with unexplainable phenomena that can alter reality.
Jesse Faden goes to this agency in search of her brother but quickly finds herself dealing with the threat imposed by an invading force known as the Hiss. Armed with a transforming gun and a range of satisfying abilities, players will find themselves immersed in a world filled with intrigue, mystery, and the supernatural.
Marvel’s Guardians Of The Galaxy
Metascore: 80
Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy
- PS Plus Availability
- Extra & Premium
- Platform(s)
- PC , PS4 , PS5 , Switch , Xbox One , Xbox Series X , Xbox Series S
- Released
- October 26, 2021
- Developer(s)
- Eidos Montreal
- Genre(s)
- Action-Adventure
After the disappointing Marvel's The Avengers, expectations were low for Square Enix's second superhero-themed project, Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy. However, those fears were washed away when Eidos-Montreal's project hit shelves to generally high acclaim. Unlike its live-service contemporary, the 2021 release tells a single-player story that follows the Guardians as they make a massive mess and then try to fix things, a process that involves dealing with a hive-minded entity that threatens the entire universe. Delivering a lengthy campaign that features consistently great writing, GOTG's narrative and characterization are by far its strongest features, and all the Guardians are granted opportunities to shine despite Star-Lord being the only playable character.
Guardians Of The Galaxy: 10 Things You Might Not Know About Star-Lord
Star-Lord has an interesting bout of trivia from his time in games, movies, and comic books, proving this Guardians of the Galaxy leader is a mystery.The combat is arguably the package's weakest element since it feels like a missed opportunity to not make all members of the team playable, and Star-Lord's gunplay is quite simplistic and repetitive. That said, the action improves as players expand the Guardians' movesets, allowing them to use more abilities during battles. The campaign also spreads out the combat sequences quite well, so they don't get too tiring. Still, Guardians of the Galaxy is mainly worth playing for its fantastic story that reaches the high bar set by the MCU movies.
Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Trilogy
Metascore: 80
Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Trilogy
Despite producing dozens upon dozens of releases per year, visual novels have remained fairly inaccessible, at least in the sense the genre tends to struggle to convince the uninitiated to give one of its masterpieces a try. Anime adaptations have helped somewhat in this area, but visual novels are still the definition of niche. PS Plus does not shine a particularly bright spotlight on these types of games, and subscribers will have to dig deep to find something that might fit the bill. Fortunately, this limited selection was greatly strengthened by PS Plus Premium's March 2024 lineup, which included Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Trilogy. This compilation features the first three entries in Capcom's franchise, which were originally released exclusively on the Game Boy Advance.
As the eponymous lawyer, players work through a series of cases in each game, most of which connect in clever ways. They will have to accumulate evidence and maneuver court trials, the latter of which is a blast to play through. Even if not quite on the same level as Monster Hunter or Resident Evil, Ace Attorney has blossomed into one of Capcom's most dependable IPs, with the series having yet to produce anything resembling a poor game. While archaic in place, the original trilogy holds up spectacularly in the areas that matter: writing and fun.
Terraria
Metascore: 83
There's no denying that Minecraft was one of the most influential titles ever created, with a lot of developers attempting their version of an "open-world procedurally generated survival crafting game." There have been a lot of imitators over the years, many of which fell short of capturing the same magic as Minecraft. But a handful of developers have produced titles that not only stand up next to the juggernaut but put their unique spin on the formula it helped to create.
Terraria is arguably one of the greatest Indie games ever developed, taking the concepts of a procedurally generated world with crafting elements and ramping them up to eleven. The 2D epic features a wide array of items, weapons, enemies, bosses, and building materials. There are tons of NPCs to engage with, secrets to uncover, and a progression system that gets punishingly more difficult as time goes on.