Sony is significantly bolstering its PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium game catalogs this February with a surprise addition: ‘s blockbuster release, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2. The move, revealed by reliable leaker billbil-kun, represents a shift in Sony’s strategy regarding its first-party titles and subscription services.
The inclusion of Spider-Man 2, just over a year after its PC port, is particularly noteworthy. Previously, Sony had largely kept its major PlayStation exclusives off the PlayStation Plus service for extended periods to prioritize retail sales. This decision suggests a more aggressive approach to attracting and retaining subscribers.
A Strong Lineup for February
Available starting , the February lineup for PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium subscribers will include:
- Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 (PS5)
- Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown (PS5)
- Neva (PS5 | PS4)
Spider-Man 2, developed by Insomniac Games, continues the story of both Peter Parker and Miles Morales as they face new threats from Kraven the Hunter and the Venom symbiote. The game builds upon the foundations of its predecessors, Spider-Man () and Spider-Man: Miles Morales, both of which are already available within the PlayStation Plus Extra catalog, allowing subscribers to experience the complete narrative arc.
Alongside the superhero action, Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown offers an open-world racing experience. While the game received mixed reviews upon its launch, its inclusion provides a different genre offering for PlayStation Plus subscribers. Rounding out the lineup is Neva, an indie title praised for its artistic style and emotional storytelling.
State of Play Announcement Expected
Sony had initially planned to officially announce the February PlayStation Plus games on . However, with a major State of Play broadcast scheduled for , it’s likely the announcement will be reserved for the live event. The State of Play is expected to last over an hour and may reveal further details about upcoming PlayStation titles, including potential updates on Marvel’s Wolverine.
The timing of this leak, just ahead of the State of Play, suggests Sony may be strategically building anticipation for a larger announcement. The event could showcase not only the PlayStation Plus additions but also provide a broader overview of the company’s gaming plans for the year.
A Shift in Strategy
The decision to add Spider-Man 2 to PlayStation Plus so relatively soon after its initial release and PC port represents a significant change in Sony’s approach to its subscription service. Previously, the company had been hesitant to include its biggest first-party titles in PlayStation Plus, fearing it would cannibalize sales. This move indicates a growing recognition of the value of subscription services in attracting and retaining players.
While Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown had a somewhat lukewarm reception, its inclusion demonstrates Sony’s commitment to offering a diverse range of games within the PlayStation Plus catalog. The addition of the visually striking indie title, Neva, further highlights this commitment to showcasing a variety of gaming experiences.
The February PlayStation Plus lineup promises a strong start to the month for subscribers and the potential for further announcements during the State of Play event adds an extra layer of excitement. This move by Sony signals a potential new era for PlayStation Plus, one where major first-party titles become more readily available to subscribers.
