Originally launched as a free service to rival Xbox Live in 2010, PlayStation Plus has come a long way since its inception. The current version of PlayStation Plus is a subscription-based service tailored for PS5 and PS4 users, which is essential for online play. It offers various tiers that enhance the gaming experience with benefits like a downloadable game catalog, cloud streaming, and more.
While Sony once provided free trials to new users of its online service, **PlayStation Plus does not currently offer any free trials.**
Can You Get PS Plus For Free in Other Ways?
Although PlayStation Plus doesn't offer free trials to everyone, certain countries or regions might occasionally have access to a limited-time free trial, as indicated on Sony's website. Unfortunately, Sony keeps the details about who can access these trials and when they are available under wraps, so you'll need to stay vigilant. PlayStation also hosts free multiplayer events from time to time that don't require a PS Plus subscription, although these are often unpredictable.
PlayStation does offer deals on PlayStation Plus subscriptions periodically, but these are typically **only available for new or expired members**. It's a bit disappointing that these promotions aren't extended to all users.
What PS Plus Alternatives Have Free Trials?
While there isn't a direct substitute for PS Plus, which is essential for online play on PS5 and PS4, there are alternatives with free (or nearly free) trials that offer game streaming services. These alternatives, however, require a different console, a PC, or a mobile device.
1. PC Game Pass (14 Days for $1 - $11.99/month)
14 Days For $1
Microsoft's PC Game Pass offers a treasure trove of games to play, including day-one access to Xbox Game Studios titles. It also comes bundled with 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 includes access to a variety of classic games from the NES, SNES, and Game Boy eras. The subscription also includes the Nintendo Music app, discounts on game vouchers, retro game controllers, and limited-time games.
3. Amazon Luna+ (7-Day Free Trial) - $9.99/month
7 Days Free
Amazon Luna+ grants access to a catalog of over 100 games, playable at up to 1080p/60fps. The service is available on PC, Mac, and mobile devices.
4. Apple Arcade (1-Month Free Trial) - $6.99/month
1 Month Free
Apple Arcade provides a growing library of over 200 ad-free games, accessible across all your Apple devices including iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV, and Apple Vision Pro. You can share your subscription with up to five family members.
Other services like Ubisoft+ and EA Play offer publisher-specific catalogs of games to stream, but they don't currently provide free trials.
