Get Ready for the Ultimate Gaming Experience This Holiday Season! If you’re a PlayStation Plus subscriber, you might not realize just how many fantastic games are available to dive into right now. The PlayStation 5 (PS5) offers an extensive library of games, and with new titles on the horizon, there’s plenty to keep you entertained.
It's important to note that the games featured in this list are drawn from the middle and premium tiers of the PlayStation Plus service—Extra and Premium—since these levels grant access to the vast PlayStation Plus Game Catalogue. However, if you’re on the Essential tier, you can still enjoy five exciting games this month, including LEGO Horizon Adventures and The Outlast Trials, among others.
Now, let’s explore some of the top games that you should definitely consider playing during the holidays, especially if you haven’t experienced them yet.
The Last of Us
We’re kicking things off with The Last of Us, a title that has garnered immense praise. Whether you've been following the HBO adaptation, are new to the series, or are eagerly awaiting news about a potential sequel, revisiting this game is a must.
Originally launched in 2013 for the PS3, it received a remaster for the PS4. Now, the PS5 houses a complete remake titled The Last of Us Part 1, which has been entirely reimagined for modern consoles. This version not only showcases breathtaking visuals that breathe new life into a classic but also includes the Left Behind expansion, which was initially a separate purchase. Plus, it features enhancements like the innovative DualSense controller functionality, making gameplay even more immersive.
I should mention that The Last of Us Part 2 complements the story beautifully, enriching the entire narrative experience. If you haven’t played the sequel yet, you’re in luck! The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered is an upgraded edition of the original PS4 release, and many argue that it takes the storytelling and gameplay to a whole new level, delving deep into themes of violence and redemption.
Whether you choose to play one or both installments, prepare to be captivated by this remarkable series.
Cyberpunk 2077
Much has been said about Cyberpunk 2077, especially concerning its troubled launch back in 2020, where it faced significant criticism for being nearly unplayable on the PS4. Sony even took the drastic step of pulling the game from its store shelves due to these issues.
However, fast forward to today, and Cyberpunk 2077 has transformed into one of the best role-playing games (RPGs) available. Set in the gritty, neon-soaked world of Night City—created by Mike Pondsmith—the game is visually stunning and filled with unforgettable characters and scenarios.
One of the standout features is the flexibility in character customization. Players take on the role of V, who can adopt various playstyles: whether you prefer transforming your arms into deadly blades to confront enemies head-on or sneaking around using stealth and hacking, the choice is yours.
While the Phantom Liberty expansion isn’t included with PlayStation Plus, subscribers do have access to the free updates that were released with patch 2.0 in 2023. These enhancements bring new weapons, improved AI for non-playable characters (NPCs), vehicular combat, and a revamped Perk system, allowing for even greater gameplay freedom.
If you attempted to play it on console in 2020, you’ll be pleased to know that this recovery story truly lives up to the hype!
Marvel’s Spider-Man Remastered
While the sequel introduces a grander adventure featuring two Spider-Men, Marvel’s Spider-Man Remastered remains a fantastic starting point in Insomniac Games’ expanding universe of superhero escapades.
In this first installment, we follow Peter Parker as he navigates both his superhero responsibilities and personal challenges when a formidable new foe, led by Mr. Sinister, emerges. As he juggles different aspects of his life, fans will encounter a host of classic villains and several intriguing plot twists.
This remaster enhances the original PS4 experience with improved graphics and smoother gameplay, ensuring that players can still enjoy the exhilarating web-swinging and acrobatic combat that made the game so popular. Additionally, Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales—available through PlayStation Plus—expands on the original’s foundation, introducing players to a new hero and storyline. It's an excellent way to prepare for the upcoming sequels and other titles like 2026’s Wolverine.
Returnal
In a landscape saturated with roguelite games, Returnal stands out as a compelling entry, crafted by the esteemed studio Housemarque, known for classics such as Super Stardust and Dead Nation.
In Returnal, you’ll step into the shoes of Selene Vassos, a pilot trapped on an ever-changing alien world called Altropos. Each time she meets her demise, she returns to the moment of her crash, with the environment shifting anew during every run.
The intense bullet hell combat paired with responsive controls provided by the DualSense’s haptic feedback makes every encounter feel fresh and engaging. The gameplay encourages experimentation, rewarding players with new abilities and strategies to employ in their next attempt. The recent Ascension update even introduced a co-op mode, allowing you to team up with a friend for added fun. Plus, keep an eye out for the upcoming Saros, which is touted as a spiritual successor to Returnal and is set to launch in March.
Planet Coaster 2
Switching gears to something a bit different, Planet Coaster 2 offers a refreshing take on management simulation games, particularly as it adapts well to console controls.
Released in 2024, this sequel expands upon the park-building and rollercoaster design mechanics of its predecessor, now incorporating water parks that allow for extensive customization, including slides and pools.
Whether you relish the challenge of creating gravity-defying rides, enjoy experimenting with the nuances of guest satisfaction, or simply want to explore the many user-created attractions, Planet Coaster 2 offers a delightful diversion from the action-packed experiences on this list. Recent updates even allow players to customize video billboards and time the launches of their rides to add an extra layer of excitement.
In conclusion, this holiday season presents an excellent opportunity to dive into some of the most captivating games available on PlayStation Plus. Which of these titles are you most excited to play? Do you agree with our selections, or do you have your favorites we missed? Share your thoughts in the comments!
