Starting from September 1st, 2015, PlayStation Plus subscribers will be affected by a price increase that Sony is rolling out to one-month and three-month member subscriptions.
The previously rumoured price increases have now been confirmed by Sony with the PS Plus 30-day option increasing to £5.99 from the current £5.49, and the 12-week PS Plus plan increasing to £14.99, up from the current £11.99 price.
Reasons Behind the Price Increase
A Sony SCEUK representative explained more:
We are dedicated to bringing PlayStation Plus members the best possible service with the most compelling content. From 1st September, we will be increasing the price of monthly and three-month PlayStation Plus subscriptions in line with market conditions. We will continue to invest in PlayStation Plus to ensure an unparalleled experience, featuring the best quality games and features.
The price hike is attributed to various market conditions, including inflation and the rising costs of maintaining and improving the PlayStation Network infrastructure. Sony aims to use the additional revenue to enhance the overall user experience, ensuring that subscribers receive top-tier games, exclusive discounts, and early access to new releases.
What Subscribers Can Expect
Despite the price increase, Sony assures its subscribers that the value of the PlayStation Plus service will continue to grow. The company has been consistently adding new features and benefits to the service, such as cloud storage for game saves, access to a vast library of free games each month, and exclusive early access to game demos and beta trials.
For instance, in recent months, PlayStation Plus members have enjoyed free access to critically acclaimed titles like “Rocket League,” “Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain,” and “Bloodborne.” These games alone offer significant value, often exceeding the cost of the subscription itself.
Moreover, Sony has introduced the “Vote to Play” feature, allowing subscribers to vote on which games they would like to see added to the free games lineup each month. This interactive element not only engages the community but also ensures that the content provided aligns with the preferences of the subscribers.
Comparing PlayStation Plus with Other Services
When compared to other gaming subscription services like Xbox Live Gold and Nintendo Switch Online, PlayStation Plus remains competitive. Xbox Live Gold, for example, offers similar benefits, including free monthly games and exclusive discounts, but its pricing structure is comparable to the new PlayStation Plus rates. Nintendo Switch Online, while cheaper, offers fewer free games and less robust online features.
In addition to gaming, PlayStation Plus also provides access to exclusive content and discounts on the PlayStation Store, making it a comprehensive service for gamers who want to maximize their PlayStation experience.
Community Reactions
The announcement of the price increase has elicited mixed reactions from the gaming community. While some subscribers understand the need for the price adjustment and appreciate the continuous improvements to the service, others are concerned about the additional cost. However, many agree that the quality and quantity of the free games and features provided by PlayStation Plus justify the price hike.
In conclusion, while the price increase for PlayStation Plus subscriptions may be unwelcome news for some, it is a necessary step for Sony to continue delivering a high-quality service. With ongoing investments in new features, exclusive content, and top-tier games, PlayStation Plus remains a valuable subscription for gamers looking to enhance their PlayStation experience.
Source: VG247 : PushSquare
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