Does Beat Saber Require a Subscription? The Comprehensive Guide
The short answer is no, Beat Saber does not require a subscription to play. You purchase the game once and you can enjoy the single-player experience and many of its features without any recurring fees. However, there are nuances that can make it seem like a subscription is necessary, particularly concerning multiplayer and additional content. Let’s dive into the details and clear up any confusion.
What You Need to Know About Beat Saber and Subscriptions
Beat Saber, the rhythm-based virtual reality sensation, is primarily a one-time purchase. The base game offers a collection of fantastic tracks, and players can slash and groove to their heart’s content without worrying about ongoing payments. However, understanding its multiplayer functionality and how you can access more music is key to grasping the complete picture.
The Multiplayer Exception
While the core game itself doesn’t have a subscription fee, playing Beat Saber in multiplayer mode requires an active PlayStation Plus subscription if you’re on a PlayStation console. This is not a Beat Saber-specific requirement but is mandated by Sony for most online multiplayer games on the PlayStation Network. If you are playing on other VR platforms, such as Meta Quest or Steam, multiplayer is free after the initial game purchase.
Purchasing Additional Content
Beat Saber includes a set number of songs with the base purchase. To expand your library, you’ll need to purchase additional song packs as DLC (downloadable content). These packs, featuring music from artists and genres, do come with a cost but are one-time purchases. You are not subscribing to these song packs; once you buy them, you own them.
Breaking Down the Costs
Let’s be clear, Beat Saber itself is a paid game. You’ll need to buy the base game at a set price, usually around $30, depending on your platform. Beyond that, the additional costs are optional and relate to obtaining more songs or playing multiplayer.
Standalone Cost
The price of Beat Saber alone usually sits around $29.99 on major VR headsets. It’s a single purchase for access to the core game. The base game includes a decent selection of songs but, to keep the fun fresh, many players opt to buy additional content.
Song Pack Costs
The song packs vary in price, but they are not cheap. Buying multiple packs adds to the overall cost, but this still doesn’t constitute a subscription. It’s an à la carte system where you choose what you want to buy.
Meta Quest 2 Promotions
It’s also worth noting that occasionally there are promotions. For example, during a certain period, new Meta Quest 2 buyers could receive a free copy of Beat Saber. This does not mean there is an ongoing subscription requirement; it’s merely a promotional freebie that some may have qualified for.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Beat Saber Subscriptions
To provide even more clarity, here’s a list of frequently asked questions about Beat Saber and subscriptions:
1. Do I Need to Pay a Monthly Fee to Play Beat Saber?
No, you do not need to pay a monthly fee to play Beat Saber. The main game is a one-time purchase, and there are no recurring fees unless you are playing multiplayer on a PlayStation console (which requires PS Plus).
2. Is a PlayStation Plus Subscription Required for Beat Saber on PlayStation?
Yes, if you want to play Beat Saber in multiplayer mode on a PlayStation console, you will need an active PlayStation Plus subscription. This is standard for most online multiplayer games on that platform.
3. Are the Song Packs a Subscription?
No, the song packs are not a subscription. You purchase each pack once, and the songs are yours to keep.
4. Can I Play Beat Saber Offline?
Yes, you can play Beat Saber offline in single-player mode without any subscription or ongoing internet connection, apart from the initial game download.
5. How Much Does Beat Saber Cost?
The price of the base game is usually around $29.99, but it may vary slightly depending on your chosen platform and current promotions.
6. Does Beat Saber Support Cross-Buy?
The base version of Beat Saber does not support cross-buy. This means if you buy it on one platform (e.g. Steam) and want to play it on another (e.g. Oculus), you will have to buy it again. However, DLC song packs purchased through the Oculus Store are available via cross-buy.
7. Are There Free Songs Available on Beat Saber?
Beat Saber offers a selection of songs in its base package. Some tracks, especially from OST 1-5 and the Rocket League x Monstercat Music Pack, are Content ID free. However, most additional songs require buying song packs.
8. How Can I Get Free Songs for Beat Saber?
You can find custom songs for Beat Saber that are created by the community. You’ll need to access these through a PC connection and mod your game to allow custom songs. You can download them from sites like BeatSaver. However, these steps involve a bit more technical knowledge.
9. Can I Play My Own Music on Beat Saber?
Not officially. The game is designed to be played with songs that are specifically mapped to the game’s mechanics. However, the custom song community has found ways to incorporate music.
10. Is There a Trial Version of Beat Saber?
Generally, there is no official trial version of Beat Saber. However, there have been occasional promotions where new VR headset purchases included a free copy of the game, such as the Meta Quest 2 promotion.
11. Is Beat Saber Available on All VR Platforms?
Beat Saber is compatible with major VR headsets, including HTC Vive, Valve Index, Oculus Rift, Windows Mixed Reality headsets and Meta Quest.
12. Is Beat Saber Only For VR?
Yes, Beat Saber is designed to be a VR-only experience. It cannot be played on a standard computer monitor.
13. Can I Play Beat Saber Without a VR Headset?
No, you cannot play Beat Saber without a compatible VR headset. It is a VR-exclusive game.
14. Is Beat Saber Worth the Cost?
The value of Beat Saber is subjective but, for many VR enthusiasts, it is considered well worth the cost. It is an engaging and active game that offers great entertainment value. The cost is the initial purchase, and then it depends on whether you want to buy any additional song packs.
15. How Can I Get Beat Saber for Free on Meta Quest 2?
During certain promotions, such as the one mentioned before, new Meta Quest 2 users were able to receive Beat Saber for free by following instructions via a redemption link. If you are not in this situation, you will likely need to purchase the game.
Conclusion: Enjoy Beat Saber Without Ongoing Fees
To recap, Beat Saber is primarily a one-time purchase. While multiplayer on PlayStation consoles does require an active PlayStation Plus subscription, and buying additional music will add to the cost, there are no mandatory monthly fees to play the game itself. You pay once to get access to the game, then you buy additional music if you want to enhance your experience. Enjoy the rhythm and slashing without worrying about a subscription!