When Sony unveiled its plans for PlayStation’s 30th anniversary earlier this month, it announced a free multiplayer weekend for PS5, meant to celebrate the console’s long history of online gaming and community. For just a few hours, players can enjoy online multiplayer without a PS Plus subscription.
When will players be able to play free PS5 multiplayer matches?
The free PS5 multiplayer weekend will last from September 21 to September 22, 2024. Don’t worry if you don’t have a PS5, the offer also applies to PS4 players, meaning anyone who owns a PS4 or PS5 can enjoy the online multiplayer modes in any game they own, even without a PS Plus subscription.
During the free period, Sony will be hosting a series of PS5 esports tournaments, featuring games such as NBA 2K25, Madden NFL 24, MLB The Show 24, EA UFC 5, Tekken 8, and Guilty Gear Strive. Players who compete over the weekend will have the chance to win special 30th anniversary-themed avatars and other game-specific prizes. Those interested can find available spots on the PS5 Games hub.
Players who want to enjoy the free PS5 multiplayer weekend can sign up for one of three PS Plus membership plans: PS Plus Essential is the lowest level, offering monthly free games, online multiplayer and exclusive discounts for $9.99 per month. PS Plus Extra offers the Essential services plus the games catalogue and Ubisoft Plus Classics for $14.99 per month. PS Plus Premium offers the full games catalogue including classic PlayStation titles, game trials and cloud streaming, plus everything in Extra for $17.99 per month.
Players who sign up for PS Plus Essential this month will get two online multiplayer games. Harry Potter Quidditch Champions and MLB The Show 24 are available on the subscription service this month.
PlayStation’s 30th anniversary celebrations don’t just end with the free PS5 Multiplayer Weekend. Sony recently unveiled an attractive PS5 Pro console themed after the original PlayStation. The themed console comes bundled with DualSense and DualSense Edge controllers, a charging station, a vertical stand, and other special collector’s items, all packed into a box that pays homage to the original PlayStation console.