Sure, if you want to enjoy a number of perks on the PS4 (like being able to play online on a number of multiplayer titles), you might want to shell out some money for a PlayStation Plus account. But what if you don't wanna? What exactly can you do without a paid account?
Glad you asked. Here's a list of things you can do without a PlayStation Plus account on the PS4 according to Sony:
- Accessing entertainment, film, and TV services (Users must subscribe separately to individual services)
- Share options, including sending gameplay video and screenshots to Facebook, screenshots to Twitter, or livestreaming gameplay via Ustream or Twitch
- Sharing video to Facebook,
- Playing PS4 games remotely using the PS Vita system (Remote Play)
- Comparing Trophy data with other users
- Sending and receiving text messages from other users
- PlayStation Store access (users must pay to purchase premium content)
- Live item, activity feeds on Dynamic Menu
- Party (cross game voice chat)
- Web browser
- PlayStation App services (on iOS/Android devices)
And here's what you can enjoy if you do shell out the cash, for comparison's sake:
- Online Multiplayer
Enjoy multiplayer competitive and cooperatives games via the internet.
- Instant Game Collection
Access to a regular, curated selection of titles made exclusively available to PlayStation Plus members at no additional cost. The PS4 titles available on Instant Game Collection at PS4′s launch in North America will include Resogun and Contrast. - Discounts
Members will have access to exclusive discounts on PlayStation Store. - Online Game Save
Members may automatically (or manually) upload game save files to Online Game Save Storage for safekeeping. Up to 1GB of cloud storage will be allocated to your PS4 save files. - Other benefits
Early access to exclusive game content, automatic game patch downloads and installation, and more.
It's worth noting that some free-to-play titles will allow you to play without a PlayStation Plus account. Additionally, if someone in a PS4 owning household is a PlayStation Plus member, everyone in the house can access online multiplayer—which is neat! And in case you're curious, if you have a PS Plus membership on the PS3, it'll still be valid on the PS4.
What do you think? Will you be purchasing a PlayStation Plus account?