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What is the PS Plus Game Catalogue?
If you're a PlayStation owner, you've likely heard about PlayStation Plus. But beyond the monthly free games and online multiplayer, there's a massive library of games known as the PS Plus Game Catalogue. This service has transformed PS Plus from a simple subscription into a comprehensive gaming platform.
But what exactly is it? How does it work? And most importantly, is upgrading to PS Plus Extra or Premium worth your money? This guide will answer all your questions.
PS Plus Tiers: Essential, Extra, and Premium Explained
First, let's clear up the most common point of confusion: access. The Game Catalogue is not availableon the basic PS Plus Essential plan.
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PS Plus Essential: This is the standard tier. You get online multiplayer, cloud storage for saves, exclusive discounts, and a few monthly games to keep as long as you're subscribed.
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PS Plus Extra: This tier includes all Essential benefits, plus access to the massive Game Catalogueof hundreds of PS4 and PS5 games.
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PS Plus Premium: This is the top tier. It includes everything in Extra, plus additional benefits like the Classics Catalogue, cloud streaming, and time-limited game trials.
The key takeaway: You need at least the Extra tier to access the Game Catalogue.
How the PS Plus Game Catalogue Really Works
Think of the Game Catalogue as Netflix for PlayStation games. For a flat monthly or annual fee, you get unlimited access to a curated library of games you can download and play.
However, there is one critical detail every subscriber must understand:
The Catalogue Rotates
Unlike the monthly games from the Essential plan (which you keep as long as you're subscribed), the Game Catalogue is a rotating library. This means:
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New games are added every month.
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Some games are removed every month.
Games typically stay in the catalogue for several months, but their availability is not permanent. This is why it's essential to check the "Last Chance to Play" section regularly on your PlayStation console. If a game leaves the service and you haven't purchased it separately, you will lose access to it.
PS Plus Extra vs. Premium: What's the Difference?
So, should you choose Extra or spring for Premium? Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you get with each.
PS Plus Extra Includes:
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All PS Plus Essential benefits
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Access to the Game Catalogue (100+ PS4/PS5 games)
PS Plus Premium Includes (Extra + More):
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All PS Plus Extra benefits
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Classics Catalogue: A collection of beloved games from older generations, including PS1, PS2, PSP, and PS3 titles (PS3 games are available via cloud streaming only).
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Cloud Streaming: Play a large selection of games directly from the cloud without downloading them—perfect for trying games quickly or saving hard drive space.
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Game Trials: Get limited-time full access to select new games. If you decide to buy, your progress and trophies carry over.
Navigating the Game Catalogue on Your PS5/PS4
Finding and browsing the catalogue is straightforward:
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From your PS5 home screen, navigate to the PS Plus icon.
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Go to the Benefits tab.
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Select Game Catalogue.
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You can now browse all available games, filter by genre, see recently added titles, and check the "Collections" for curated lists like "Ubisoft+ Classics."
The Final Verdict: Is the PS Plus Game Catalogue Worth It?
Who is it for?
The PS Plus Game Catalogue offers incredible value for:
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Gamers who love variety and trying new things.
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Players who missed major AAA titles and want to catch up without the full purchase price.
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Anyone who wants to discover indie gems they might have overlooked.
Who might not need it?
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Gamers who primarily play one or two live-service games and rarely branch out.
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Those on a tight budget who prefer to own games permanently.
Conclusion
The PS Plus Game Catalogue is one of the best values in gaming today. If you enjoy having a vast library of games at your fingertips, PS Plus Extra is likely the sweet spot for most players. It provides an excellent library of modern titles for a reasonable price.
Upgrade to PS Plus Premium if you have a specific interest in retro classics via the Classics Catalogue or see value in cloud streaming and game trials.
Ready to explore? Head to your PlayStation and dive into the catalogue. What will you play first? Let us know in the comments below!
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