Is A Way Out Free on PS4? The Complete Guide
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The question of whether A Way Out is free on PS4 is a common one, and the answer isn’t a simple yes or no. While the full game isn’t free, there’s a clever system that allows you to play the entire experience with a friend without them needing to purchase the game outright. Let’s break down how this works, along with other key details about this unique cooperative title.
How to Play A Way Out on PS4 Without Both Players Buying
The core concept of A Way Out is cooperative gameplay. It’s designed from the ground up to be a two-player experience, following the journey of Leo and Vincent as they attempt to escape prison. Because of this, the developers have implemented a “Friend Pass” system.
Here’s how it works:
- One player purchases the full version of A Way Out. This player will be the host of the game.
- The other player downloads the free trial version of A Way Out. This is often referred to as the “Friend Pass” or “Free Trial” on the PlayStation Store.
- The player who owns the game sends an invite to their friend through the in-game menu. The friend will receive this through the platform’s messaging system.
- Once the invite is accepted, both players can play the entire game together, despite only one person owning it.
This system is designed to encourage cooperative play and make the game accessible, removing the financial barrier for one of the players. However, it’s crucial to remember that both players must have active PlayStation Plus subscriptions if they are playing online. If playing locally, then only one copy of the game is necessary.
Understanding the Friend Pass System
The Friend Pass is not a demo in the traditional sense where you only get to play a portion of the game. Instead, the friend who downloads the free version can access the entire game as long as they are playing with the player who owns the full copy. This means that even though it’s called a “trial,” the full gameplay experience is available.
Key Considerations
- PS Plus is Required for Online Co-op: To play online co-op with the Friend Pass system, both players need an active PlayStation Plus subscription. Local co-op does not require online subscriptions.
- Free Trial Availability: The “Free Trial” version is found in the Demos section of the PlayStation Store.
- Friend Invitation: Invites are sent through the platform messaging system, not in-game.
- No Single Player Mode: The game cannot be played solo, requiring two players at all times. There is no single-player story mode.
- Split-Screen Gameplay: The game is designed with split-screen functionality for both local and online play. This means you’ll see both player’s screens side-by-side.
- PS5 Compatibility: While playable on the PS5, you might need to update your system to the latest software. Some PS4 features might be absent on the PS5 version.
Frequently Asked Questions About A Way Out on PS4
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about A Way Out on the PS4, providing even more detailed information:
1. Is A Way Out a PlayStation VR game?
No, A Way Out is not a PlayStation VR game. You do not need a PlayStation VR headset or a PlayStation Camera to play the game on PS4. The information stating these items are required in some instances is incorrect.
2. Do both players need to buy A Way Out to play online?
No, only one player needs to purchase the full game. The other player can download the free Friend Pass version (also called the Free Trial), which allows them to join and play the entire game with the owner of the full version.
3. Can I play A Way Out with a friend on one PS4?
Yes, you can play A Way Out in local co-op on one PS4 using split-screen. This requires two controllers and playing in the same room. No additional online subscriptions are needed for local co-op.
4. How do I invite my friend to play A Way Out for free?
The friend who owns the full game sends an invite from the in-game menu. This invitation is delivered through the PlayStation’s messaging system, not within the game itself. The other player needs to accept the invite through their messages.
5. Can I play A Way Out on PS4 without PS Plus?
If you are playing local co-op, you do not need PS Plus. However, both players need an active PS Plus subscription for online co-op using the Friend Pass system.
6. What happens if I download the A Way Out Friend Pass without owning the full game?
You will not be able to play the game until you receive an invite from a player who owns the full version of A Way Out. The Friend Pass only allows you to join a game, not start one.
7. How long is the campaign of A Way Out on PS4?
The campaign of A Way Out typically takes between 6 to 8 hours to complete. This can vary slightly depending on your playstyle and how much time you spend exploring.
8. Is there a single-player mode for A Way Out on PS4?
No, A Way Out does not have a single-player mode. The game is designed to be played exclusively in co-op, either locally or online.
9. Is A Way Out a good game?
A Way Out has received generally positive reviews, praised for its unique cooperative gameplay, engaging storyline, and memorable characters. Many critics highlight the attention to detail and the way the two stories diverge and converge as core highlights of the game.
10. What if my friend doesn’t have the Friend Pass version downloaded?
If your friend does not have the Friend Pass version installed, they can find it in the Demos section of the PlayStation Store. They should be able to find it by searching “A Way Out” and selecting the free demo option.
11. Is A Way Out a free-to-play game like Fortnite or Apex Legends?
No, A Way Out is not a free-to-play game. However, the friend who doesn’t own it can play through the entirety of it for free when invited by the player that owns it.
12. Is there any new A Way Out game on the way?
There are currently no announcements for a direct sequel to A Way Out. However, Josef Fares, the studio head, has hinted at future projects that may be similar in style and theme but not specifically “A Way Out 2.”
13. Can I play the A Way Out Friend Pass after the full game owner is offline?
No, the Friend Pass version requires the player who owns the full game to be online and hosting a game session. The Friend Pass only works in co-op with someone who owns the game.
14. What is the cost of A Way Out if I need to buy it?
A Way Out originally retailed for a lower price than typical major releases, at $29.99. However, prices may vary based on retailers and discounts.
15. Can I play A Way Out on PS5, and will I be able to use the Friend Pass there?
Yes, you can play A Way Out on the PS5. The Friend Pass system still applies. However, make sure your PS5 is updated with the latest system software. Some PS4 features might be absent on the PS5 version.
Conclusion
While A Way Out isn’t free to everyone, the Friend Pass system makes it incredibly accessible for two players to enjoy the full cooperative experience, provided one player owns the game. This unique approach to co-op allows more players to enjoy this narrative-driven action-adventure, emphasizing the power of partnership and teamwork. So, if you’re looking for a unique gaming experience to share with a friend, A Way Out on the PS4, and now the PS5, is a perfect choice, provided you both have the means to play with each other!