Originally launched as a free service to rival Xbox Live in 2010, PlayStation Plus has evolved significantly since its inception. The current version of PlayStation Plus is a subscription-based service essential for PS5 and PS4 users who wish to engage in online play. Beyond the basic requirement for online gaming, PlayStation Plus offers various tiers that enhance the gaming experience with benefits like a catalog of downloadable games, cloud streaming, and more.
While Sony previously provided free trials for new users to explore its online service, **PlayStation Plus does not currently offer any free trials** to its users.
Can You Get PS Plus For Free in Other Ways?
Although PlayStation Plus does not offer free trials to everyone, certain countries or regions may occasionally have access to a limited-time free trial, as indicated on Sony's website. Unfortunately, Sony does not disclose exactly *who* these free trials are targeted at or *when* they are available, so staying vigilant is key. PlayStation also hosts free multiplayer events from time to time, which do not require a PS Plus subscription, though these events are often unpredictable.
PlayStation does offer occasional deals on PlayStation Plus subscriptions, but these are typically **only available for new or expired members**. It would be great if Sony could extend these offers to all members!
What PS Plus Alternatives Have Free Trials?
While there isn't a *direct* replacement for PS Plus, as it's necessary for online play on PS5 and PS4, there are several alternatives that provide free (or nearly free) trials and offer a catalog of games to stream. However, these alternatives generally require a different console, a PC, or a mobile device to access the service.
1. PC Game Pass (14 Days for $1 - $11.99/month)
14 Days For $1 - Microsoft PC Game Pass
Hundreds of games are available to play, including Xbox Game Studios titles on day one. The subscription also includes an EA Play membership and Riot Games benefits.
2. Nintendo Switch Online (7-Day Free Trial) - Starting at $3.99/month
7 Days Free - Nintendo Switch Online
This service includes dozens of NES, SNES, and Game Boy games, along with the Nintendo Music app. Subscribers also gain 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+
With Luna+, you can access a catalog of over 100 games, playable up to 1080p/60fps on PC, Mac, and mobile devices.
4. Apple Arcade (1-Month Free Trial) - $6.99/month
1 Month Free - Apple Arcade
Apple Arcade offers a growing library of over 200 ad-free games, available across all your Apple devices (iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV, and Apple Vision Pro). You can also share your subscription with up to five family members.
Other services like Ubisoft+ and EA Play feature publisher-specific catalogs of games to stream, but they do not currently offer any free trials.