Discover the Must-Play Games on PlayStation Plus Premium

Since June 2022, PlayStation Plus in North America has adopted a tiered subscription model, offering users access to an extensive library of games from various generations of PlayStation consoles. The highest tier, PlayStation Plus Premium, boasts over 700 games spanning across multiple decades, including PS5, PS4, PS3, PS2, PSP, and PS1 titles. This expansive collection can be overwhelming, but for those who know where to look, it holds some of the most remarkable gaming experiences ever crafted. Below, we delve into some of the top games you shouldn’t miss if you’re subscribed to PS Plus Premium.

The Ultimate PlayStation RPG: The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt is often revered as one of the greatest RPGs of all time, and its presence on PlayStation Plus Premium is a testament to its enduring appeal. Developed by CD Projekt Red and released in 2015, this game set new standards for storytelling, world-building, and character development in the RPG genre. Gamers step into the shoes of Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter searching for his adopted daughter Ciri in a richly detailed and immersive world.

The game’s narrative complexity is matched by its intricate open-world design, replete with side quests that could easily stand alone as stories in other games. The combat system, though challenging, is deeply rewarding for those willing to master it. Between its main story and the plethora of side content, The Witcher 3 easily offers over a hundred hours of gameplay. Whether you’ve experienced it before or are coming to it fresh, its inclusion in PS Plus Premium makes it accessible to both veterans and newcomers.

A Cult Classic: Cult of the Lamb

One of the more unique offerings available through PlayStation Plus Premium is Cult of the Lamb. Released in 2022 by Massive Monster, this game is a quirky yet dark roguelite that combines elements of simulation and action genres. The premise centers around a lamb who starts a cult following, aiming to resurrect their god by defeating four powerful bishops and recruiting followers.

Cult of the Lamb stands out due to its intriguing blend of humor and horror. The game’s loop of dungeon crawling and cult management provides a balanced mix of action and strategy. Players will find satisfaction in both the tense combat scenarios and the ability to develop and manage their cult followers with varying personalities and needs. The visual style and gameplay mechanics make it a memorable addition to the PS Plus Premium library.

Western Epic Redefined: Red Dead Redemption 2

For fans of open-world games, Red Dead Redemption 2 by Rockstar Games is an unmissable entry on PlayStation Plus Premium. Released in 2018, this prequel to the original Red Dead Redemption plunges players into the waning days of the American Frontier. The game’s protagonist, Arthur Morgan, is a member of the Van der Linde gang, navigating the challenges of a world that’s fast leaving the Old West behind.

What sets Red Dead Redemption 2 apart is its commitment to creating a living, breathing world. The game’s meticulous attention to detail is evident in its expansive landscapes, nuanced character interactions, and a narrative that explores themes of loyalty, redemption, and survival. While the slow-paced gameplay might not appeal to everyone, those who invest time in Arthur’s story are rewarded with one of the most immersive experiences in gaming history.

Survival and Morality: The Last Of Us: Remastered

Naughty Dog’s The Last of Us: Remastered is a cornerstone of the PS Plus Premium collection, especially for those who appreciate narrative-driven games. Originally released in 2013 for the PS3 and later remastered for the PS4, this game sets a high bar for emotional storytelling in a post-apocalyptic setting. Players follow Joel and Ellie as they traverse a world devastated by a fungal infection that has transformed much of humanity into mindless creatures.

The Last of Us excels in character development and moral ambiguity, offering players a story that doesn’t shy away from presenting difficult choices and harrowing moments. The remastered version enhances the visual fidelity and frame rate, making it the definitive way to experience this modern classic. For anyone looking to explore themes of survival, love, and sacrifice, The Last of Us: Remastered is essential playing.

Gothic Horror: Bloodborne

FromSoftware’s Bloodborne, a PS4 exclusive, takes a deserving spot in the PlayStation Plus Premium lineup. This action RPG, released in 2015, is known for its challenging gameplay and haunting atmosphere. Set in the Gothic city of Yharnam, gamers take on the role of a Hunter navigating through nightmarish landscapes teeming with horrific creatures and hidden secrets.

What makes Bloodborne stand out is its fast-paced, reflex-driven combat system that encourages aggression rather than defense. The game’s difficulty curve is steep, but it rewards perseverance with a deeply satisfying experience. The atmosphere is further amplified by its Lovecraftian influences, making Bloodborne not just a game but a journey into a beautifully crafted nightmare.

Indie Excellence: Celeste

For those seeking a more platforming-focused experience, Celeste is an outstanding choice available on PS Plus Premium. Released in 2018 by Extremely OK Games, this indie title combines challenging platforming mechanics with a poignant narrative about mental health and self-discovery. Players guide Madeline on her quest to climb Celeste Mountain, facing demanding obstacles and perilous foes along the way.

Celeste shines not only for its tight, responsive controls but also for its emotional depth. The game tackles themes of anxiety and perseverance, providing an impactful story that resonates on a personal level. With an exceptional soundtrack and beautifully pixelated visuals, Celeste offers a complete package that both challenges and inspires.

Mythic Re-imagining: God Of War

2018’s God of War marked a dramatic shift for the iconic franchise, steering away from Greek mythology and embracing the rich lore of Norse mythology. Developed by Santa Monica Studio, this reboot of sorts sees an older, more reflective Kratos embarking on a journey with his son, Atreus, to scatter his deceased wife’s ashes from the highest peak in all the realms.

God of War integrates role-playing elements, stunning visuals, and a more emotionally driven narrative to reinvigorate the series. The combat system is designed to be both strategic and visceral, requiring players to judiciously use both Kratos’ Leviathan Axe and Atreus' bow. This sophisticated approach to storytelling and gameplay earned God of War a place among the most highly acclaimed games available on PS Plus Premium.

Deep Sea Delights: Dave The Diver

Dave the Diver is another unique offering brought to PlayStation Plus Premium, blending elements of adventure and simulation in a way that feels fresh and engaging. Launched in April 2024, this game from Mintrocket allows players to split their time between exploring the ocean as a diver and managing a sushi restaurant.

The game’s dual gameplay mechanics provide a balanced experience. During the day, players dive into the ocean, exploring underwater ecosystems, and catching fish. At night, they run a sushi restaurant, preparing dishes and serving customers. This split focus keeps the gameplay varied and interesting. The charming graphics and soundtrack also add to the game’s overall appeal.

Merging Old and New: Resident Evil 2 Remake

The 2019 remake of Resident Evil 2 is another stellar entry in the PlayStation Plus Premium library. Developed by Capcom, this remake of the classic 1998 survival horror game retains the essence of the classic while also updating it to modern standards. The game's setting in the zombie-infested Raccoon City Police Department is just as terrifying and atmospheric as it was over two decades ago.

What truly elevates the Resident Evil 2 Remake, however, is its refined gameplay mechanics and stunningly detailed graphics. The over-the-shoulder camera and fluid controls make the action more intense and immersive. The game’s two-protagonist system, featuring Leon Kennedy and Claire Redfield, provides multiple perspectives on the story, encouraging repeated playthroughs. This is horror gaming at its finest.

Pixelated Puzzles: Animal Well

A more recent yet remarkable addition to PS Plus Premium is Animal Well, a puzzle platform developed by Shared Memory. Released in May 2024, the game employs a pixel art style to create intricate, atmospheric environments teeming with secrets and challenges. Players control a small creature navigating through a vast subterranean world filled with puzzles that require both clever thinking and nimble platforming skills.

Animal Well captivates through its minimalist storytelling and hauntingly beautiful visuals. The puzzles are well-crafted, often requiring players to think outside the box. For those who enjoy games that are as much about discovery and atmosphere as they are about puzzle-solving, Animal Well is a must-play experience available on PS Plus Premium.

Sci-Fi Psychedelia: Returnal

Housemarque’s Returnal, exclusively available for the PS5 on PS Plus Premium, takes players on a mesmerizing journey through an alien planet filled with perils and mysteries. Launched in 2021, this third-person shooter combines elements of roguelikes and psychological horror to deliver a gripping, high-stakes experience. Players assume the role of Selene, a space explorer trapped in a time loop on the hostile world of Atropos.

Returnal excels in both gameplay and narrative. Each run through the planet’s biomes offers different challenges and opportunities, ensuring replayability. The game’s procedural generation keeps things fresh, while the intriguing story, revealed piece by piece, adds layers of depth. The visual and auditory elements are top-notch, making Returnal one of the most immersive experiences on PS Plus Premium.

Emotional Exploration: Undertale

Undertale, developed by Toby Fox, is a celebrated indie RPG that has left a significant mark on the gaming landscape. Available through PS Plus Premium, Undertale offers players a unique experience where choices truly matter. Released in 2015, the play tells the story of a child who finds himself in an underworld inhabited by monsters.

The PlayStation Plus Premium service stands as a haven for gaming enthusiasts, offering a remarkable selection of titles that span various genres and eras. From timeless classics to modern masterpieces, the range of games available ensures there is something for every type of gamer. Whether you're in the mood for the rich storytelling and expansive world of "The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt," the emotional depth of "The Last of Us: Remastered," the intense atmosphere of "Bloodborne," or the unique dual gameplay mechanics of newer titles like "Dave the Diver" and "Animal Well," PlayStation Plus Premium curates an exceptional gaming experience. This tiered subscription model not only celebrates the legacy of PlayStation but also continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the gaming world. For both seasoned gamers and newcomers, PlayStation Plus Premium offers an invaluable gateway to some of the finest gaming has to offer.