Between price increases and the often spending-intensive end of the year, the time has come for trade-offs. Among the subscriptions that players are wondering about keeping is PS Plus Essential. However, behind its annual price of 80 dollars lies a little-known reality: a library of free games with a total value estimated at 1,500 dollars over the year 2025.
This impressive figure does not come out of nowhere. “Thanks to Push Square’s calculations, we now know that if you had grabbed all 39 games offered with Essential this year, you would have a library of games worth $1,500 that you would not have had to pay for.” A sum calculated from recommended retail prices, and not one-off promotions, such as those which saw certain titles fall below 10 dollars.
A year full of blockbusters on PS Plus Essential
PS Plus Essential hit big in 2025 with big-name titles in its monthly offerings. Among the most notable, Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice Leagueoffered barely a year after its release, already had a list price of 70 dollars. Dragon Age: The Veilguardadded in March, had only been available for five months.
Other renowned games also expanded the selection throughout the year: Alan Wake 2, Psychonauts 2or even Lies of P. In total, 39 games were included in the Essential offers, confirming that the basic subscription remains a solid gateway to discovering major productions without breaking the bank.
A digital library… but temporary
Behind this apparent generosity, an important nuance is essential. “Unlike other free game deals, like the one currently running on the Epic Games Store, Essential games are not yours for good.” In other words, they remain playable only if the subscription is active. If you decide to interrupt your subscription, access is suspended, even if the games remain linked to your account.
Only renewing the subscription allows their access to be reactivated, which makes it a model closer to rental than purchase. This is a factor that should not be overlooked for users looking for permanent ownership.
PS4 players, the big forgotten ones of 2026?
Another development should be noted, and not the least: Sony seems to be slowly turning the page on the PS4. “PlayStation has confirmed that starting with its Essential offerings in January, PS4 games will no longer be included systematically each month.” A decision which risks leaving a significant part of the community, still loyal to the older generation, on the sidelines.
If the PS5 clearly becomes the priority, this transition will directly impact the perceived value of the subscription for PS4 owners. We will have to monitor the coming months to see if this trend is confirmed or if adjustments will be proposed.
A profitable subscription… but for whom?
On the surface, the equation seems clear: $80 spent for $1,500 saved. But in reality, the PS Plus Essential subscription works provided you stay committed all year long, have a compatible console, and above all, don’t miss out on the monthly titles. Because once the month is up, it’s too late to get them back.
For regular and well-organized players, the offer remains unbeatable. For others, you may need to think about more flexible options… or the option of purchasing à la carte.