Good news for curious players. The PlayStation 5 has just welcomed six new free demos to the PlayStation Store, offering a preview of anticipated titles, including some planned for 2026. Available now, these trial versions allow you to discover varied universes, from action platformers to narrative puzzles, with no PlayStation Plus subscription required.
Six new free demos to download on PS5
Among the new releases, Ariana and the Elder Codex from Idea Factory International offers an action platform game in which you play Ariana, a librarian with magical powers. His mission is to restore the corrupted Seven Heroes’ Codexes. Under The Island, developed by Top Hat Studios, takes a retro 2D approach inspired by the 90s. Players follow Nia in an adventure combining exploration, combat and puzzles, with an assumed nostalgic atmosphere. Darwin’s Paradox! Tactical Octopus Action Demo, presented during the recent Sony State of Play, features an octopus with stealth skills. The player must escape from an industrial complex invaded by aliens.
Projects expected in 2026
Some of these demos announce major releases planned for 2026. Mina the Hollower, developed by Yacht Club Games, the studio behind Shovel Knight, features a female inventor exploring the Dark Isle in an adventure inspired by 8-bit classics. Rhythm Towers mixes strategy and music in an original universe where an extraterrestrial pop group must defend the vital rhythm of their planet. Planet of Lana II, a sequel to the game released in 2023, offers more complex puzzles and new mechanics for Lana.
A variety of styles for all profiles
These six demos cover several genres: action, adventure, infiltration, rhythm strategy and platform. The main interest lies in the possibility of testing these experiences for free before their full release or final purchase. Some titles are also available in PS4 version, expanding their accessibility.
An opportunity to seize without a PS Plus subscription
All of these demos are free to download via the PlayStation Store. No PlayStation Plus subscription is required to access it. For players wishing to discover the next PS5 releases without financial commitment, this selection constitutes an ideal opportunity to explore new worlds.