PlayStation Free Games for May: A Complete Guide
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
What Are PlayStation’s Free Games for May?
For May 2023, PlayStation Plus subscribers received three free games as part of their monthly benefits: GRID Legends, Chivalry 2, and Descenders. These titles were available to claim and download from Tuesday, May 2nd, until Tuesday, June 6th. It’s important to note that while these games were “free” to PlayStation Plus members, they are only playable as long as the user has an active PlayStation Plus subscription. Once the subscription lapses, access to these monthly games is revoked.
Each of these games offers a distinct experience:
- GRID Legends: This racing title provides intense, high-speed action with a focus on a deep narrative and diverse vehicle classes. It’s a solid pick for fans of arcade-style racing games.
- Chivalry 2: A multiplayer medieval combat game, Chivalry 2 thrusts players into epic battles with swordplay, sieges, and chaotic skirmishes. It appeals to those who enjoy action-packed, team-based combat.
- Descenders: This downhill biking game offers procedurally generated courses and emphasizes skillful riding. It’s a strong choice for fans of extreme sports games with rogue-like elements.
While these were the PlayStation Plus monthly games for May 2023, it’s worth understanding the landscape of free games on the PlayStation ecosystem, which includes other types of free titles beyond the monthly offerings.
Beyond the Monthly Games: Other Free Options on PlayStation
Besides the monthly PlayStation Plus games, several other games are available for free on the PlayStation Network. These titles generally fall into the “free-to-play” category and often include microtransactions or in-game purchases. Some of the prominent free-to-play titles on PlayStation include:
- Fortnite: A massively popular battle royale game with building mechanics.
- Apex Legends: A fast-paced, squad-based battle royale game with unique characters and abilities.
- Rocket League: A vehicular soccer game, combining driving and sports.
- Overwatch 2: A team-based hero shooter with diverse characters and objectives.
- Roblox: A user-generated content platform featuring thousands of games created by its community.
- MY HERO ULTRA RUMBLE: A battle royale game based on the popular anime series, My Hero Academia.
- Destiny 2: A first-person shooter with cooperative and competitive elements.
- Disney Speedstorm: A kart racing game featuring Disney and Pixar characters.
These free-to-play games offer a diverse range of genres and experiences, ensuring that there’s something for almost every gamer.
Understanding PlayStation Plus Tiers
PlayStation Plus isn’t just one service; it’s divided into three distinct tiers, each with its own benefits:
- PlayStation Plus Essential: This is the base tier and includes access to monthly games, online multiplayer, exclusive discounts, and cloud saves.
- PlayStation Plus Extra: In addition to the Essential tier benefits, this tier offers access to a vast game catalog featuring hundreds of PS4 and PS5 titles, which can be downloaded and played as part of the subscription.
- PlayStation Plus Premium: The highest tier includes all the benefits of Essential and Extra, along with a catalog of classic games from older PlayStation consoles (PS1, PS2, PS3, and PSP), game trials, and cloud streaming capabilities for select titles.
While monthly games are included in the Essential tier, the larger Game Catalog available in the Extra and Premium tiers expands the pool of available games significantly.
The Games of May 2023: A Recap
Returning our focus to May 2023’s free games, it’s worth highlighting that these games were chosen to offer variety, despite not being considered “juggernauts” like some of the larger titles in the PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium catalogs.
- GRID Legends: A high-octane racing experience suitable for casual and hardcore racing fans.
- Chivalry 2: Delivers chaotic, large-scale medieval combat for team-based action enthusiasts.
- Descenders: Provides a challenging, downhill biking experience with a unique rogue-like structure.
Each title offered something unique, but their selection emphasized diverse genres rather than mainstream appeal.
PlayStation Free Game FAQs: Everything You Need to Know
To further clarify questions surrounding PlayStation’s free games, here are some frequently asked questions:
1. Are PlayStation Plus monthly games free to keep forever?
No. Monthly games are only accessible as long as you have an active PlayStation Plus subscription. Once your subscription ends, you will lose access to them. However, games you purchase through the PS Store are yours to keep.
2. What is the difference between free PlayStation Plus games and free-to-play games?
PlayStation Plus monthly games require an active subscription, and access is revoked when the subscription expires. Free-to-play games, on the other hand, are always free to download and play, though they may have microtransactions.
3. Can I play PlayStation Plus games on both PS4 and PS5?
It depends on the game. Many PS4 games are playable on PS5 via backward compatibility. However, some titles are native only to one console generation, as was the case with Descenders, which was only native to PS4 in the May 2023 offering. However, it was playable on the PS5, but it was the PS4 version.
4. How do I download free PlayStation Plus games?
From the Games home screen, select PlayStation Plus, then navigate to the Benefits tab. Here you can find and download the monthly games.
5. What were the PlayStation Plus monthly games for June 2023?
The PlayStation Plus monthly games for June 2023 were NBA 2K23, Jurassic World Evolution 2, and Trek to Yomi.
6. What were the PlayStation Plus monthly games for July 2023?
The PlayStation Plus monthly games for July 2023 included Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War Cross-Gen Bundle, Alan Wake Remastered, and Endling: Extinction is Forever.
7. What were the PlayStation Plus monthly games for August 2023?
The PlayStation Plus monthly games for August 2023 were PGA Tour 2K23, Dreams, and Death’s Door.
8. What is the PlayStation Plus Extra Game Catalog?
The PlayStation Plus Extra tier offers access to a vast catalog of downloadable PS4 and PS5 games, often featuring a rotating selection of titles. It’s a separate benefit from the monthly games.
9. Does PlayStation Plus have a free trial?
PlayStation Plus occasionally offers free trials, but they are not always available. Check the PlayStation Store for current promotions.
10. What is the difference between PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium?
PlayStation Plus Premium offers additional benefits over Extra, including a library of classic games from older PlayStation consoles, game trials, and cloud streaming of select titles.
11. Will FIFA 23 be free on PS Plus?
While FIFA 23 has not been part of the PS Plus monthly games, it is available on EA Play, offering subscribers access to it. Therefore, it may be unlikely to appear on PS Plus monthly games, especially with the introduction of EA’s own subscription service.
12. What happens to the games I downloaded when my PlayStation Plus subscription expires?
You will lose access to any games claimed through PlayStation Plus (monthly games or those in the Game Catalog) when your subscription lapses. You must renew to regain access.
13. Are there any other ways to get free games on PlayStation?
Yes, PlayStation sometimes runs promotions offering free digital games with console purchases. It’s worth checking for such promotions periodically.
14. What is leaving the PlayStation Plus Game Catalog?
Games are periodically removed from the Game Catalog, typically after some time. Sony lists the games leaving on the PlayStation Store or via the PlayStation blog. It is important to regularly check the news to see which games are leaving so you can complete them before they do.
15. Is it worth getting a PlayStation Plus Subscription for free games?
Whether a PlayStation Plus subscription is “worth it” depends on your gaming habits. If you frequently play online multiplayer games or are interested in accessing a wide catalog of titles, it can be worthwhile. The monthly games are a small part of the value offered by the service, especially at the higher tiers.
In conclusion, while the PlayStation Plus monthly games for May 2023 offered some interesting titles, the PlayStation ecosystem provides a variety of free gaming options for players. Understanding the different subscription tiers and the free-to-play landscape allows players to maximize their gaming experience on PlayStation.