What Were the Free PS Plus Games for January 2023?
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The free PlayStation Plus games for January 2023 were a strong start to the year, offering a mix of action-adventure, post-apocalyptic exploration, and metroidvania challenges. Specifically, PS4 and PS5 subscribers could download and play Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order, Fallout 76, and Axiom Verge 2 at no extra cost. These titles were available to claim throughout the entire month of January, provided you had an active PS Plus subscription. Let’s delve a bit deeper into what made these games so noteworthy.
Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order: A Galaxy Far, Far Away
Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order is a 2019 action-adventure title developed by Respawn Entertainment and published by Electronic Arts. This game is particularly special because it takes place after the events of Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith. Players assume the role of Cal Kestis, a young Padawan who survived the purge of Order 66. As Cal, you’ll explore a variety of planets, hone your Force abilities, engage in thrilling lightsaber combat, and piece together the mysteries of the past. The game’s combat system is challenging, rewarding skillful parrying, timing, and strategic use of the Force. Its story offers a compelling narrative that fits well within the Star Wars canon, making it a hit for both Star Wars fans and gamers alike. Available on both PS4 and PS5, it allowed players to experience the full Star Wars fantasy.
Fallout 76: Post-Apocalyptic West Virginia
Fallout 76 offers a different kind of adventure, diving into the post-apocalyptic world of West Virginia. Developed by Bethesda Game Studios, this multiplayer online role-playing game (RPG) lets players explore the vast, ruined landscape, complete quests, craft items, and build settlements with friends. While the game faced some initial criticism at launch, it has since received numerous updates and improvements, making it a more refined and engaging experience. Fallout 76 brings a unique take to the Fallout universe, allowing players to team up in a persistent online world. The social interactions and shared survival elements offer a different type of gameplay compared to single-player Fallout experiences. Like Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order, Fallout 76 also has native versions for both PS4 and PS5.
Axiom Verge 2: Metroidvania Exploration
Axiom Verge 2, from developer Thomas Happ Games, provides a change of pace with its 2D metroidvania gameplay. Players take on the role of Indra, a mysterious character on a journey to another world. Unlike the original Axiom Verge, which focused on weapon upgrades and glitches, Axiom Verge 2 features different mechanics centered around hacking, melee combat, and exploring the strange environment. This game focuses on exploration, combat, and puzzle-solving. It rewards players for thoroughness and strategic thinking. Axiom Verge 2 is available on both PS4 and PS5, allowing gamers to enjoy this challenging, atmospheric adventure on their preferred console.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to provide you with a comprehensive overview of PlayStation Plus and the free games for January 2023:
1. What is PlayStation Plus?
PlayStation Plus is a subscription service provided by Sony for PlayStation console owners. It is required for online multiplayer gaming and offers benefits such as free monthly games, exclusive discounts, cloud storage for game saves, and access to the PlayStation Plus Collection for PS5 owners. There are several tiers for PlayStation Plus: Essential, Extra, and Premium, each offering different benefits and pricing.
2. Do I need PlayStation Plus to play these free games?
Yes, you need an active PlayStation Plus subscription to download and play the free monthly games. Once your subscription lapses, you will lose access to these games until you renew or purchase the games separately.
3. Are the January 2023 PS Plus games available on both PS4 and PS5?
Yes, all three games, Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order, Fallout 76, and Axiom Verge 2, were available for both PS4 and PS5 players as part of the January 2023 PlayStation Plus lineup. Both consoles have their own native versions of each game.
4. Can I keep the free PS Plus games forever?
No, you cannot keep the games forever if your subscription ends. You can download and play them while your PS Plus membership is active. If you cancel or your membership expires, you will lose access to the games unless you re-subscribe or buy them separately.
5. How long are the free PS Plus games available to claim?
The free PS Plus games for each month are generally available to claim for a full month, usually from the first Tuesday of the month until the first Tuesday of the following month.
6. Were there any other free games in January 2023 on the PS Store?
No, the three games mentioned above were the only free games offered via PlayStation Plus Essential in January 2023. There were no additional “free” games outside of the PS Plus lineup.
7. What was the PS Plus Collection?
The PS Plus Collection was a selection of 20 popular PS4 games available to PS5 owners with a PlayStation Plus subscription. This collection was available since the launch of the PS5 but was discontinued on May 9, 2023.
8. Are PS4 games compatible with PS5?
Yes, PS4 games are backward compatible with PS5. You can play both physical and digital PS4 games on the PS5. Certain PS4 games even have upgrades available for a next-gen PS5 version with enhanced graphics and performance.
9. How much does PlayStation Plus cost?
The cost of PlayStation Plus varies depending on the tier you choose and the duration of your subscription. PS Plus Essential, the base tier, is the most affordable. PS Plus Extra and PS Plus Premium offer more benefits for higher prices. Subscription options range from monthly, three-month, and yearly plans.
10. Can I get a refund for PlayStation Plus?
Yes, you can get a refund for PlayStation Plus within 14 days of purchase. However, Sony may reduce the refund based on how much you have used the service.
11. Is Minecraft free on PS Plus?
No, the full version of Minecraft is not free on PlayStation Plus. While there may be trials or demos available, you’ll need to purchase the game to play it fully. Minecraft Dungeons, however, was a PS Plus free game in March 2023.
12. Does PlayStation still offer free monthly games?
Yes, PlayStation continues to offer free monthly games to subscribers of all PlayStation Plus tiers. The specific titles change each month, but the free games program remains a core benefit of the service.
13. Is the PS4 being discontinued?
No, there has been no official announcement of the PS4 being discontinued by Sony. They continue to support the console with updates and have even released some games for it. The main focus has shifted to the PS5, however.
14. How many games are available in the PS Plus Game Catalog?
The PS Plus Game Catalog, available to Extra and Premium subscribers, includes over 400 games. The library is constantly refreshed, offering a diverse selection of games from various genres and eras.
15. What were the PS Plus games for February 2023?
The free PlayStation Plus games for February 2023 included Evil Dead: The Game, OlliOlli World, Destiny 2: Beyond Light, and Mafia: Definitive Edition.
These were the fantastic free games that made up the PlayStation Plus lineup for January 2023. They provided a great range of gameplay styles and genres, giving subscribers plenty to enjoy. The monthly free games remain a central feature of the PlayStation Plus service, continuing to be a great way for players to expand their game libraries and explore new titles.