Sony recently confirmed its PS Plus line-up for October 2021, but to little or no surprise. The PS Plus free games for October had previously leaked from a source with a proven track record, meaning Hell Let Loose (PS5), Mortal Kombat X (PS4), and PGA Tour 2K21 (PS4) were known about ahead of time. Unfortunately, this means that many were unhappy ahead of time too.
Many PS Plus subscribers vented their disappointment with this line-up ahead of their official reveal, citing Mortal Kombat X as lackluster (since it’s not Mortal Kombat XL or MK11) and highlighting the limited appeal of a golf game. Hell Let Loose has had the best reception thus far, though it is limited to PS5 players. Another of the most common complaints was that October is the quintessential component of “spooky season,” and with Halloween taking place later in the month, a good horror or horror-adjacent game would have been welcome.
Obviously, there is nothing really spooky about this line-up, particularly without Mortal Kombat X’s DLC characters. Players in Asia, however, are getting a fourth game—something that happens in some regions from time to time—and it is appropriate for October, Halloween, and the current “spooky season.” This fourth game is Castlevania Requiem, which consists of Symphony of the Night and Rondo of Blood.
As many know, the plot of Castlevania Requiem revolves around Richter Belmont, Alucard, Maria Renard, and Count Dracula. Facing off with one of the most iconic vampires in classic and modern media is a good way to spend time this holiday season, but once again, this is only available to PS Plus subscribers in Asia.
While it’s not intentional, this may come as an added sting to those already upset with the line-up. This is especially true considering Xbox’s Games with Gold in October include two horror games for the Xbox 360, those being Castlevania: Harmony of Despair and Resident Evil: Code Veronica X. Those looking for classic horror games on the Xbox platform are—at the very least—getting something for the holiday.
Of course, while PS Plus may not be the go-to spot for a Halloween-oriented game this year, there’s plenty coming out that could make for great games this season. Alan Wake Remastered, Resident Evil 4 VR, The Dark Pictures Anthology: House of Ashes, Back 4 Blood, and Fatal Frame: Maiden of Black Water are all set for release in October, so hopefully, there’s something out there to scratch everyone’s particular itch for the “spooky season.”
PS Plus subscribers get a handful of free games every month.