Sony’s Surprising Decision: PlayStation Plus Users Dismayed by Game Removal
PlayStation Plus subscribers were met with a disheartening surprise recently when Sony unceremoniously removed the adventure game "After Us" from its Extra and Deluxe tiers. The game had been a part of the library since its initial release in June 2024.
The removal of "After Us" has sparked concern among users, who are now questioning the stability and value of the subscription service. The PlayStation Plus terms and conditions explicitly state that Sony has the right to remove games from the catalog at any time without prior notice. This practice, while common among subscription-based gaming services, can be frustrating for users who rely on the service for access to a wide variety of titles.
In the case of "After Us," players who wish to continue playing the game on PlayStation will now have to purchase it separately for €29.99. This shift from being included in the subscription service to being a separate purchase has left many users feeling disappointed.
25% Discount on PlayStation Plus Extra
Despite the removal of "After Us," Sony has implemented a 25% discount on the yearly subscription for PlayStation Plus Extra. The subscription, which normally costs €2340, is now available for €1755. This subscription tier provides access to the PS Plus game catalog, Ubisoft+ classics, cloud storage, and exclusive discounts.
35% Discount on PlayStation Plus Deluxe
For an even more attractive deal, PlayStation Plus Deluxe is currently available at a 35% discount. The 12-month Deluxe subscription can be purchased for €1781 instead of the regular price of €2740. This subscription tier includes all the benefits of PlayStation Plus Extra, along with additional perks such as a catalog of classic PS1, PS2, and PSP games, game trials, and cloud streaming.
User Reactions to Game Removal
The removal of "After Us" has garnered significant backlash from PlayStation Plus users. Many have taken to social media to express their frustration and disappointment. Some users argue that the game’s inclusion in the subscription service was a major selling point and that its removal diminishes the value of the service.
Others have pointed out that the lack of transparency surrounding game removals is concerning. Sony has not provided any explanation for why "After Us" was removed, leaving users to speculate about the reasons behind the decision. This lack of communication has led to increased uncertainty and distrust among the PlayStation Plus community.
Is PlayStation Plus Still Worth It?
The removal of "After Us" and the potential for future game removals have raised questions about the overall value of the PlayStation Plus subscription. While the recently announced discounts on the Extra and Deluxe tiers make the service more affordable, the uncertainty surrounding game availability remains a significant concern.
For users who primarily rely on PlayStation Plus for access to a wide variety of games, the removal of "After Us" may be a deal-breaker. However, for users who value the other benefits of the subscription, such as cloud storage, exclusive discounts, and access to Ubisoft+ classics, the Extra and Deluxe tiers may still be worthwhile at the discounted rates.
Conclusion
Sony’s decision to remove "After Us" from PlayStation Plus has left a bitter taste in the mouths of many subscribers. The lack of transparency surrounding the removal and the potential for future game removals have raised concerns about the stability and value of the subscription service. While the recently announced discounts may alleviate some of these concerns, it remains to be seen whether PlayStation Plus can regain the trust of its users.
