Is PUBG Free with PS Plus? Everything You Need to Know
No, PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS is not directly free with PlayStation Plus. While the base game transitioned to a free-to-play (F2P) model on PlayStation consoles, a PS Plus subscription is not required to download and play the basic game. However, there are benefits to having PS Plus, though they aren’t directly related to accessing the base game of PUBG. This guide will delve into the specifics of PUBG’s F2P transition, the benefits of a PS Plus subscription, and other essential information for players on PlayStation.
Understanding PUBG’s Free-to-Play Transition
PUBG’s move to a free-to-play model was a significant shift for the battle royale title. Before this change, players had to purchase the game to access it. Now, anyone can download and play PUBG on PS4 and PS5 without an initial purchase. This opened up the game to a much wider audience, allowing more players to experience the intense battle royale action that PUBG offers.
The transition to F2P also introduced Battlegrounds Plus, a premium upgrade for the game. Players who previously purchased PUBG before it became free automatically received Battlegrounds Plus. New players can purchase this upgrade to gain access to various benefits, as detailed later.
Do You Need PS Plus to Play PUBG?
As mentioned, a PlayStation Plus subscription is NOT required to play PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS since its transition to free-to-play. You can download and play the game online without a PS Plus subscription. This is a significant change as previously many online multiplayer games required a PS Plus subscription to access online features.
However, having a PS Plus subscription can still enhance your gaming experience on your PlayStation console. Keep reading to find out more!
Benefits of PlayStation Plus
While not required for playing PUBG, a PlayStation Plus subscription unlocks several benefits that enhance your overall gaming experience. These include:
- Online Multiplayer Access: While PUBG doesn’t require it, most other multiplayer games on PlayStation do.
- Monthly Games: PS Plus subscribers receive a selection of free games each month. These games can be added to your library and played as long as you maintain your subscription.
- Exclusive Discounts: PS Plus members get exclusive discounts on games, DLC, and other content in the PlayStation Store.
- Cloud Storage: PS Plus provides cloud storage for your game saves, allowing you to back up your progress and access it on other consoles.
- Share Play: Share Play allows you to invite a friend to join you in a local multiplayer session, even if they don’t own the game.
Battlegrounds Plus: The Premium Upgrade
Battlegrounds Plus is a one-time purchase upgrade that enhances your PUBG experience. It offers several perks, including:
- Survival Mastery XP + 100% boost
- Career Medal tab
- Ranked Mode access
- Creating Custom Matches
- In-Game Items: Includes the Battlegrounds Plus Conversion Reward items, including the Captain’s Camo Set, which includes the hat, camo mask, camo gloves and camo boots.
This upgrade offers tangible benefits, but is completely optional. You can enjoy the core PUBG experience without it. This type of upgrade can be seen as a powerful way to engage players. To learn more about gaming and engagement, consider exploring the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.
Comparing Free-to-Play and Battlegrounds Plus
Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide if Battlegrounds Plus is right for you:
| Feature | Free-to-Play | Battlegrounds Plus |
|---|---|---|
| ————————- | ——————————— | ———————————– |
| Base Game Access | Yes | Yes |
| Ranked Mode Access | No | Yes |
| Custom Match Creation | No | Yes |
| XP Boost | No | Yes |
| Exclusive Items | No | Yes |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is PUBG truly free-to-play?
Yes, the base game of PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS is free to download and play on PlayStation consoles (PS4 and PS5). You can jump into matches without spending any money.
2. Do I need PlayStation Plus to play PUBG online?
No, a PlayStation Plus subscription is not required to play PUBG online. This changed when the game transitioned to a free-to-play model.
3. What is Battlegrounds Plus?
Battlegrounds Plus is a premium upgrade for PUBG that offers additional benefits, such as Ranked Mode access, custom match creation, XP boosts, and exclusive in-game items.
4. How much does Battlegrounds Plus cost?
The cost of Battlegrounds Plus can vary, so it’s best to check the PlayStation Store for the current price in your region.
5. If I bought PUBG before it went free-to-play, do I get Battlegrounds Plus?
Yes, players who purchased PUBG before it went free-to-play were automatically upgraded to Battlegrounds Plus at no extra cost.
6. Can I still play PUBG if my PS Plus subscription expires?
Yes, since PUBG does not require a PS Plus subscription, you can continue to play the game even if your PS Plus subscription expires.
7. Are there any limitations to the free-to-play version of PUBG?
While the core gameplay is the same, free-to-play users have limited access to Ranked Mode and custom matches.
8. How do I upgrade to Battlegrounds Plus?
You can purchase the Battlegrounds Plus upgrade from the PlayStation Store. Simply search for “PUBG Battlegrounds Plus” and follow the purchase instructions.
9. What happens if I uninstall and reinstall PUBG after purchasing Battlegrounds Plus?
Your Battlegrounds Plus status is tied to your account, so you will retain your benefits even if you uninstall and reinstall the game.
10. Does Battlegrounds Plus give me an advantage over free-to-play players?
Battlegrounds Plus provides benefits like an XP boost, which can help you level up faster. It also unlocks Ranked Mode and Custom Matches, which are unavailable to those who only play for free.
11. Is PUBG cross-platform with other consoles or PC?
PUBG supports limited cross-platform play. Console players (PlayStation and Xbox) can play together, but there is no cross-play between consoles and PC.
12. Will PUBG ever require PS Plus in the future?
It is highly unlikely that PUBG will require PS Plus in the future, given its current free-to-play model. However, policies can change. It’s a good idea to stay up to date with official announcements from PUBG Corporation and PlayStation.
13. What kind of content updates does PUBG receive?
PUBG receives regular content updates, including new maps, weapons, vehicles, game modes, and cosmetic items.
14. How big is the PUBG download size on PS4/PS5?
The download size of PUBG can vary depending on updates and patches. Check the PlayStation Store for the most up-to-date information on the game’s size.
15. Is PUBG still popular in 2024?
Yes, PUBG remains a popular battle royale game, especially since its transition to a free-to-play model.
Final Thoughts
While PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS doesn’t require PlayStation Plus to play, understanding the benefits of both the free-to-play model and the Battlegrounds Plus upgrade can help you decide how to best enjoy the game. Whether you’re a seasoned battle royale veteran or a newcomer to the genre, PUBG offers an engaging and competitive experience on PlayStation consoles. The transition to free-to-play has made it more accessible than ever. Now, gather your squad and jump into the action!