Battlefield 2042 on PS Plus: How Long Do You Get to Play for Free?
The availability of Battlefield 2042 as a “free” game for PlayStation Plus subscribers has been a bit of a rollercoaster. Let’s get straight to the heart of the matter: Battlefield 2042 was available as a monthly game on PS Plus in March 2023. This means you had until April 3, 2023, to claim the game and add it to your library. If you did so while you were a PS Plus member, you could play Battlefield 2042 as long as you remained a PlayStation Plus subscriber. It’s no longer available to claim for free, but if you did get it in March 2023, the duration for which you can play depends on the status of your subscription.
Understanding PlayStation Plus and “Free” Games
The key here is understanding how PlayStation Plus’s monthly games work. They aren’t permanently free in the truest sense. Think of them more as a rental that you can continue to access as long as you’re paying your subscription.
The Difference Between PS Plus Tiers
It’s also important to note the different PlayStation Plus tiers: Essential, Extra, and Premium.
- Essential: This tier provides access to monthly games, online multiplayer, and cloud saves.
- Extra: Includes all Essential benefits plus a catalog of downloadable games.
- Premium: Includes all Extra benefits plus classic games, game trials, and cloud streaming.
Battlefield 2042, when offered as a monthly game, was available to all PS Plus subscribers regardless of their tier, however the duration is still dependent on the susbcription status. The Extra and Premium tiers also offer different games through their catalogs, and these games are often available for a limited time, but are not part of the ‘monthly games’ offering.
FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Battlefield 2042 and PS Plus
Here are some frequently asked questions to clarify everything about Battlefield 2042 and PlayStation Plus:
1. If I Claimed Battlefield 2042 in March 2023, Can I Still Play It?
Yes, if you claimed Battlefield 2042 before the offer expired (around April 3rd, 2023), and you currently have an active PlayStation Plus subscription (any tier: Essential, Extra, or Premium). As long as you maintain that subscription, you can continue to access and play the game.
2. What Happens If My PS Plus Subscription Lapses?
If your subscription expires, you will lose access to Battlefield 2042 and any other games you obtained through PS Plus monthly offerings. Your game will be locked. Once you resubscribe, your access will be reinstated.
3. Will Battlefield 2042 Ever Be Permanently Free on PlayStation?
It is unlikely that Battlefield 2042 will become permanently free for all PlayStation users (without a PS Plus subscription). It might be offered again through PS Plus or become part of a promotion in the future, but a truly free-to-play model seems unlikely given EA’s typical strategies.
4. Is Battlefield 2042 Worth Buying Now?
That’s a matter of personal opinion! Battlefield 2042 had a rocky launch, but it has received numerous updates and improvements since then. Many players feel that the game is in a much better state now than it was at launch. Read reviews, watch gameplay videos, and consider if the current price point aligns with your expectations for the game.
5. What Are the Current PS Plus Monthly Games?
The PS Plus monthly games change every month, usually on the first Tuesday of the month. Always check the PlayStation Blog or the PlayStation Store to see the latest offerings.
6. Do I Need PS Plus to Play Battlefield 2042 Online?
Yes, you require a PlayStation Plus subscription to play Battlefield 2042 online on PlayStation consoles (PS4 or PS5), even if you own the game.
7. Can I Play Battlefield 2042 on PC for Free?
Battlefield 2042 has been offered as a free trial or through promotions on PC gaming platforms like Steam or through Amazon Prime Gaming at various times. Keep an eye on these platforms for potential free opportunities.
8. How Do I Download Battlefield 2042 If I Claimed It Through PS Plus?
If you claimed Battlefield 2042 through PS Plus, it should appear in your PlayStation library. You can then download it to your console’s storage. Make sure you have enough storage space available.
9. Can I Get a Refund If I Bought Battlefield 2042 and Then It Became “Free” on PS Plus?
Refund policies vary. Contact PlayStation Support and explain your situation. They may offer a refund or store credit at their discretion, but it’s not guaranteed, especially if you purchased the game a while ago.
10. What Are Some Alternatives to Battlefield 2042?
If you’re looking for similar multiplayer shooter experiences, consider titles like the latest Call of Duty, Battlefield V, Hell Let Loose, Insurgency: Sandstorm, or even older Battlefield titles.
11. Does PS Plus Premium Offer Battlefield 2042 Through Its Game Catalog?
The availability of specific games in the PS Plus Extra and Premium catalogs changes periodically. Check the PlayStation Store to see if Battlefield 2042 is currently available in the catalog. Even if it is, it does not mean you permanently own it.
12. Where Can I Find More Information About PS Plus Games?
The official PlayStation Blog is the best source for information on upcoming PS Plus games, changes to the service, and other related news.
13. How Much Does PlayStation Plus Cost?
The cost of PlayStation Plus varies depending on the tier and subscription length. Check the PlayStation Store for the most up-to-date pricing. As of late 2023, expect to pay around $10-$18 per month (depending on the tier) or discounted rates for quarterly or annual subscriptions.
14. Is Battlefield 2042 Cross-Platform?
Yes, Battlefield 2042 supports cross-platform play between PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. PlayStation 4 and Xbox One players are grouped together, but not with the next-gen consoles or PC.
15. Can I Use My Battlefield 2042 Progress From a Free Trial If I Buy the Game Later?
Yes, typically, any progress you make during a free trial of Battlefield 2042 will carry over if you purchase the full game on the same platform and using the same account.
Final Thoughts: Maximizing Your PS Plus Value
Battlefield 2042’s journey on PlayStation Plus highlights the importance of understanding the nuances of subscription services. While “free” games offer incredible value, it’s crucial to remember that access is tied to your active subscription. Stay informed about new game announcements, claim your monthly games promptly, and consider whether a higher PS Plus tier might offer even greater benefits based on your gaming habits. Keep exploring the connections between games and learning! Learn more about game studies at the Games Learning Society: GamesLearningSociety.org. This helps you maximize your PlayStation Plus experience and get the most enjoyment out of your games.