2026 marks a new beginning for Sony, as they plan to prioritize their efforts towards PlayStation 5 Plus members, effectively phasing out free games for PlayStation 4 users via PlayStation Plus Monthly Games and the Game Catalog starting in January of that year.
Yesterday’s PlayStation Monthly Blog post disclosed the games that will be available for free next month as part of the PlayStation Plus Essential package, which was announced by Sony.
On the contrary, this isn’t all gloom and doom. Those who had claimed free titles earlier can keep them as they continue their active PlayStation Plus membership. Moreover, Sony has reassured PlayStation 5 users that even when they cease support for PlayStation 4, they will still provide games that work with both consoles.
Changes made are only relevant to games specifically designed for PlayStation 4. Although this might be frustrating for those who haven’t upgraded to a PlayStation 5 yet, the backwards compatibility feature on PlayStation 5 comes with benefits. For instance, games such as Assassin’s Creed Valhalla can still be enjoyed on both PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 platforms, and Sony plans to release more cross-generation titles like Valhalla in the future.
This move takes us one step closer to phasing out the 12-year-old PlayStation 4, a device that remains robust yet finds it challenging to match the needs of contemporary gaming experiences.
The news lines up with Sony’s recent change on the PlayStation Network (PSN) prerequisites. After facing criticism for a year, Sony has now made PSN sign-ins non-compulsory.
But if you establish a PlayStation Network (PSN) account, you’ll gain access to exclusive in-game bonuses for the recently launched PC version of Spider-Man 2, including the Spider-Man 2099 Black Suit and Miles Morales 2099 Suit.
regretfully, those living in areas not supported by PSN are currently unable to enjoy these rewards or play HELLDIVERS 2.
Currently, PlayStation 4 users can continue to access free monthly games. The upcoming lineup for PlayStation Plus Essential features two games: “High On Life,” a space adventure with a Rick and Morty-like feel, and a remake of the popular platformer “Pac-Man World.” Conversely, the controversial first-person shooter game “Payday 3” will be playable only on PlayStation 5.
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2025-01-30 18:14