Originally launched as a free service to rival Xbox Live in 2010, PlayStation Plus has significantly evolved from its initial offering. Today, PlayStation Plus is a subscription-based service essential for PS5 and PS4 users looking to engage in online play. It goes beyond just connectivity, offering different tiers that enrich the gaming experience with benefits such as a vast catalog of downloadable games, cloud streaming, and much more.
It's important to note that while Sony once provided free trials for new users to explore its online service, PlayStation Plus no longer offers any free trials to its users.
Can You Get PS Plus For Free in Other Ways?
While PlayStation Plus doesn't provide free trials to everyone, certain regions or countries might have access to limited-time free trials as per Sony's website. The catch is that Sony keeps the details under wraps, not specifying who can benefit or when these trials are available. Staying updated is key. Additionally, PlayStation sometimes hosts free multiplayer events that don't require a PS Plus subscription, but these events can be unpredictable.
On a brighter note, PlayStation does offer occasional deals on PlayStation Plus subscriptions, although these are typically exclusive to new or expired members. It would be great if Sony extended these offers to all subscribers!
What PS Plus Alternatives Have Free Trials?
While there's no direct substitute for PS Plus since it's crucial for online play on PS5 and PS4, there are alternatives with free or nearly free trials that provide access to a catalog of games for streaming. These options, however, require different platforms like a PC, another console, or a mobile device.
1. PC Game Pass (14 Days for $1 - $11.99/month)
14 Days For $1
Microsoft PC Game Pass
See it at Xbox
- Hundreds of games available to play
- Play Xbox Game Studios titles on day one
- Includes an EA Play subscription and Riot Games benefits
2. Nintendo Switch Online (7-Day Free Trial) - Starting at $3.99/month
7 Days Free
Nintendo Switch Online
See it at Nintendo
- Includes dozens of NES, SNES, and Game Boy games
- Nintendo Music app included in subscription
- Access to discount game vouchers, retro game controllers, and limited-time games
3. Amazon Luna+ (7-Day Free Trial) - $9.99/month
7 Days Free
Amazon Luna+
See it at Amazon
- Access a catalog of over 100 games
- Play games up to 1080p/60fps
- Available on PC, Mac, and mobile devices
4. Apple Arcade (1-Month Free Trial) - $6.99/month
1 Month Free
Apple Arcade
See it at Apple
- Access a growing library of over 200 ad-free games
- Available across all your Apple devices (iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV, and Apple Vision Pro)
- Share your subscription with up to five family members
Other services like Ubisoft+ and EA Play offer publisher-specific catalogs of games for streaming, but currently, they do not offer any free trials.
