Sony PlayStation Plus Changes Games Offering

Sony Interactive Entertainment has stopped regularly adding PlayStation 4 titles as a part of its free monthly-game lineups for PlayStation Plus games catalogue from Jan 6, 2026. Sony’s PlayStation Plus subscription model, which was introduced to offer full support for both PS4 and PS5 users, has been shifted toward a PlayStation 5-focused subscription ecosystem with this update.

Under the PlayStation Plus new rules, the Essential plan has stopped regularly including PS4-exclusive titles. Sony confirmed previously claimed PS4 titles remain accessible to subscribers as long as membership stays active.

Additionally, the current system's backward compatibility guarantees that a large number of the new releases may still be enjoyed. The system brings both generations together with enhanced versions that function on both systems. However, the company aims to improve the quality of products by eliminating the need to incorporate outdated software on a monthly basis, while utilizing unique features like haptic feedback and a 3D audio system.

Sony PlayStation Plus Games Strategy Focuses on PS5 Engagement

The Sony PlayStation Plus changes highlight how console subscription plans are increasingly focusing on newer hardware, instead of backward-compatibility libraries. The PlayStation Plus subscription model previously used to offer monthly free games,  previous PlayStation generations' titles, and a catalog that included PS4 and PS5 games.

After the new rules, the previous model of PlayStation Plus Essential offerings will change, and to enjoy the full benefits of this plan, players will have to upgrade to PS5. The Extra and Premium tiers might also prioritize PS5-native content.

As mentioned, the subscription adjustments link towards increasing Sony’s operational efficiency. The change follows Sony’s earlier cancellation of PS3 and PS Vita titles’ offerings from the PlayStation Plus subscription model in 2019.

While the strategy enhances the PS5 lifecycle, it also indicates that the PS4 is approaching the end of its market time. This might also be seen as a push towards the adoption of a newer and costlier hardware system for PlayStation users, in a market where console prices are increasing significantly.