Usually, yes. PlayStation Plus is required for online multiplayer in most PS5 games, but some games are exempt. Most free-to-play games—including Fortnite, Apex Legends and Call of Duty: Warzone—do not require a membership. Check the PlayStation Store listing for the specific game before subscribing.
When PS5 online multiplayer requires PlayStation Plus
PlayStation’s support guidance says that most PS4 and PS5 games require a PlayStation Plus subscription for online multiplayer. The rule applies to the game’s online multiplayer modes; it does not mean every PS5 game or every online feature requires a subscription. Some games do not require membership.
To check a particular title, open its PlayStation Store listing and look for its online-play requirements. That listing is the most direct way to confirm whether the game you want to play requires Plus.
Free-to-play games are often an exception
Most free-to-play games do not require PlayStation Plus for online multiplayer. PlayStation’s US FAQ gives Fortnite, Apex Legends and Call of Duty: Warzone as examples. PlayStation says “most,” not all, so check the Store listing for any free-to-play game rather than assuming it is exempt.
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Which PlayStation Plus tier do you need?
PlayStation identifies Essential, Extra and Premium as plans that enable access to available online modes requiring a membership. Its guidance does not identify a higher tier as necessary solely to play online multiplayer. The relevant question is whether the game requires Plus, not which tier offers the most features.
What to know before subscribing
- It is a paid subscription. On PlayStation’s US page, membership renews automatically until cancelled. Prices and plan availability can vary by region and account, so check the current local terms before buying.
- Age and parental controls can affect access. PlayStation says online multiplayer may be subject to age restrictions based on a child’s age or parental-control settings.
- Check the exact game. A game’s PlayStation Store listing can clarify its membership requirement; the general rule is not a guarantee for every title or account setup.
Official PlayStation guidance
PlayStation’s PlayStation Plus support page describes the general multiplayer rule and notes that some games do not require membership. Its US PlayStation Plus FAQ names examples of free-to-play games that do not require membership and explains automatic renewal. The PlayStation Plus plan information covers the available membership tiers and online modes.
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