PlayStation Plus is a subscription service that enhances your PlayStation experience. It provides access to online multiplayer gaming, monthly downloadable games, exclusive discounts, and other features. But how much does PlayStation Plus cost for a year? This guide will break down the costs and benefits of the PlayStation Plus subscription, focusing on the “Essential” tier.
PlayStation Plus Essential: Annual Cost and Features
PlayStation Plus Essential is the base tier of the PlayStation Plus service. It offers a range of core features for PlayStation gamers. The annual subscription fee for PlayStation Plus Essential is typically $79.99, charged automatically every 12 months.
Here’s a breakdown of the key features you get with PlayStation Plus Essential:
- Online Multiplayer Access: Play your favorite games online with friends and other players from around the world.
- Monthly Games: Download a selection of hand-picked games each month at no extra cost. These games are yours to play as long as you maintain your PlayStation Plus subscription.
- Exclusive Discounts: Enjoy exclusive discounts on games, add-ons, and other content in the PlayStation Store.
- Exclusive Add-on Content: Get access to exclusive in-game items, skins, and other add-ons.
- 100GB Cloud Storage: Store your game saves online and access them from any PlayStation console. *
- Share Play: Let friends remotely join your local multiplayer games, even if they don’t own the game themselves.
- Game Help (PS5): Get in-game hints and tips to help you overcome challenges in supported PS5 games.
- PlayStation Plus Collection (PS5): Access a library of popular PS4 games on your PS5 console (this benefit may be discontinued or changed).
Understanding the Subscription Renewal and Cancellation Policy
It’s important to understand how PlayStation Plus subscriptions work, especially regarding renewals and cancellations.
Automatic Renewal: Unless you cancel your subscription, it will automatically renew each year, and the $79.99 fee will be charged to your default payment method. If your PSN wallet doesn’t have sufficient funds, the remaining amount will be taken from your linked credit card or other payment method.
Cancellation: You can cancel your PlayStation Plus subscription at any time. To cancel, visit: http://playstation.com/cancel-subscription
Cancellation Policy: When you cancel, your subscription will expire at the end of the current billing period. You will retain access to your PlayStation Plus benefits until the expiration date. You will not receive a refund for any unused portion of your subscription. For more details on the cancellation policy, visit: http://playstation.com/store-cancellation-policy
Eligibility and Restrictions
PlayStation Plus is not available to everyone. There are certain eligibility requirements and restrictions:
- Age Restrictions: PlayStation Plus is available to legal U.S. and Canadian residents who are 7 years or older with an account for PlayStation Network. It’s also available to legal residents of Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru and Uruguay who are 13 years or older.
- Parental Consent: Users who haven’t reached the legal age of majority in their country of residence need a parent or legal guardian’s consent to create a PlayStation Network account. They may also be restricted from accessing certain content or services.
- Content and Service Changes: The games included in the PlayStation Plus subscription and the online features of those games may change over time. The PlayStation Plus Collection and Game Help are exclusive to PS5 consoles.
- Active Subscription Required: Continued access to PlayStation Plus features and benefits requires an active subscription.
- Service Changes: Service, features, and benefits are subject to change or may be retired entirely.
- Price Changes: The price of PlayStation Plus is subject to change.
- Usage Terms: http://www.playstation.com/legal/ps-plus-usage-terms/
Is PlayStation Plus Essential Worth It?
Whether PlayStation Plus Essential is worth the annual cost depends on your gaming habits and preferences. If you enjoy playing online multiplayer games, taking advantage of exclusive discounts, and trying out new games each month, then the subscription is likely a good value. Consider your individual needs and whether the features offered align with your gaming lifestyle.
Conclusion
The annual cost of PlayStation Plus Essential is $79.99. This subscription provides access to online multiplayer, monthly games, exclusive discounts, cloud storage, and other benefits. Remember to manage your subscription carefully, understanding the renewal and cancellation policies. Consider the value of the features offered before subscribing to determine if it’s the right choice for you.
*Max 1000 save files for PS4
