Is Uncharted 3 Free to Play on PS3? A Detailed Guide
The simple answer to whether Uncharted 3: Drake’s Deception is free to play on the PlayStation 3 (PS3) is: it was, but it isn’t anymore. While the multiplayer component of Uncharted 3 was made free-to-play for a period of time, that offer has since ended. Currently, to play Uncharted 3 on your PS3, you will need to own a copy of the game, either physical or digital. This article will delve into the history of Uncharted 3’s multiplayer going free, why that’s no longer the case, and provide crucial details about the game itself.
Uncharted 3: A Retrospective Look
A Blockbuster Adventure
Released in November 2011, Uncharted 3: Drake’s Deception is the third main installment in the critically acclaimed Uncharted series, developed by Naughty Dog and published by Sony Computer Entertainment. The game is renowned for its engaging action-adventure gameplay, a gripping story that blends historical fiction with pulse-pounding action, and its charismatic protagonist, Nathan Drake. Set two years after Uncharted 2: Among Thieves, the single-player campaign sends Nathan Drake and his mentor Victor “Sully” Sullivan on a quest to find the legendary lost city of Iram of the Pillars, facing off against a secret society led by Katherine Marlowe, an antagonist with ties to Sully’s past.
Gameplay Highlights
Uncharted 3 is a unique blend of third-person shooter and platforming mechanics, offering an immersive gameplay experience that captured the hearts of many. Players will navigate through a variety of exotic locales, from bustling city streets to arid deserts and ancient ruins. The game is known for its cinematic set pieces, dynamic cover system, intricate puzzle-solving, and a compelling narrative that keeps players hooked from start to finish. If you focus purely on the main story, Uncharted 3 will take about 9 hours to complete. However, for completionists aiming to achieve 100%, expect to spend around 20 hours to uncover all secrets and trophies.
The Free-to-Play Era
The multiplayer mode of Uncharted 3 was, indeed, made free-to-play for a limited time, as part of Sony’s efforts to celebrate the game and its loyal fanbase. The free-to-play initiative aimed to bring in a wider audience to experience the game’s competitive multiplayer. During that period, players had access to a huge player pool, with over half a million passionate gamers active every month. However, as with many such promotions, this period had a conclusion date. It’s crucial to understand that the free-to-play multiplayer option for Uncharted 3 on PS3 is no longer available.
The End of an Era
The free multiplayer promotion for Uncharted 3 ended on September 3, 2019. Alongside this, the multiplayer servers for Uncharted 2 and The Last of Us on PS3 were also discontinued. During the final days, all the multiplayer DLC was made completely free to download, enabling players to enjoy the full experience until the very last day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about Uncharted 3 and related aspects to provide a complete picture:
1. Can I still play Uncharted 3 multiplayer on PS3?
Yes, you can still play Uncharted 3 multiplayer on PS3, but you need to own a copy of the game. The servers are still active, but the free-to-play offer has ended.
2. Do I need PlayStation Plus to play Uncharted 3 multiplayer on PS3?
No, you do not need PlayStation Plus to play Uncharted 3 multiplayer on PS3.
3. Is Uncharted 3 available on other platforms besides PS3?
No, Uncharted 3: Drake’s Deception is exclusive to the PlayStation 3 platform. There is no version of the game for other consoles or PC.
4. Is Uncharted 3 backwards compatible on PS4 or PS5?
No, Uncharted 3 is not backwards compatible with the PS4 or PS5. To play the game, you need a PlayStation 3 console. However, Uncharted: The Nathan Drake Collection, which includes remasters of Uncharted 1, 2 and 3 is available on PS4.
5. What is the storyline of Uncharted 3?
The story follows Nathan Drake and Victor Sullivan as they search for the lost city of Iram of the Pillars, while battling Katherine Marlowe’s secret society.
6. What are some of the gameplay mechanics in Uncharted 3?
Uncharted 3 features a blend of third-person shooting, platforming, puzzle-solving, and cinematic set pieces. The game also utilizes a dynamic cover system.
7. Is it necessary to play previous Uncharted games before playing Uncharted 3?
While not absolutely necessary, playing Uncharted 1 and 2 will enhance your experience with Uncharted 3 and the characters’ backstories. You can play the games out of order but the experience won’t be as profound.
8. Is Uncharted 4 related to Uncharted 3?
Yes, Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End is the sequel to Uncharted 3, taking place three years later. It concludes Nathan Drake’s adventure.
9. How long does it take to beat Uncharted 3?
The main story of Uncharted 3 takes approximately 9 hours to complete. Achieving 100% completion can take around 20 hours.
10. Which Uncharted game is the longest?
Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End is the longest game in the series.
11. Is Uncharted 3 considered a good game?
Yes, Uncharted 3 is widely considered one of the best games in the Uncharted series and a defining game of the PS3 generation, praised for its story, gameplay, and presentation.
12. Are the Uncharted servers still active?
Yes, the multiplayer servers for Uncharted 3 on PS3 are still online but the free-to-play offer has ended.
13. Why is Uncharted 4 not on PS3?
Uncharted 4 requires the more powerful hardware of the PS4 to run at its full potential. Its graphical and functional demands would make it unfeasible to release on PS3.
14. Did Sony ever offer free Uncharted games?
Yes, Sony did offer Uncharted: The Nathan Drake Collection and Journey for free on PS4 as part of their “Play At Home” initiative.
15. What is the ending of Uncharted 3?
In the end, Nate destroys the city, Marlowe dies while attempting to retrieve Drake’s ring, and Nate and Sully escape.
Conclusion
While Uncharted 3: Drake’s Deception on the PS3 did have a period where its multiplayer was free-to-play, that time has passed. To experience this thrilling game, you will need to purchase a copy of the game. With its captivating storyline, action-packed gameplay, and memorable characters, Uncharted 3 remains a must-play title for fans of the action-adventure genre. Its legacy continues to resonate, making it an enduring favorite among gamers. This comprehensive overview should provide you with all the information you need regarding Uncharted 3 and its history of multiplayer availability.