PlayStation Plus, Sony’s flagship subscription platform, remains a top pick for gamers loyal to the console’s ecosystem. Ever since its redesign in 2022, introducing a variety of subscription options, the service has granted players access to an impressive library spanning Sony’s rich history and its various console generations. This includes games from Sony itself as well as third-party partnerships. Sony keeps gamers intrigued by adding fresh titles every month across its Essential, Extra, and Premium tiers.
While Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass brings first-party titles straight to its users, PlayStation Plus follows a different strategy. Sony opts to sell its major hits at the retail price of $70, reflecting the substantial production costs involved in their creations. And it’s a reasonable approach. However, enhancing PlayStation Plus by rejuvenating some of its lesser-known franchises could make the service even more appealing to subscribers.
Sony has a wealth of intellectual property tied to the PlayStation brand that hasn’t seen the light of day in quite some time. Although giants like God of War and The Last of Us enjoy frequent updates, classics like Sly Cooper, Patapon, LocoRoco, and Ape Escape aren’t receiving the same attention. The release of Astro Bot, a PlayStation platformer that featured over 150 character cameos from Sony’s storied past, served as a nostalgic reminder of these forgotten franchises.
Astro Bot’s nod to various, long-neglected franchises has sparked anticipation that Sony might resurrect some dormant titles. Some reports have hinted that Sony plans to revive its classic IPs, supported by the Premium service that breathes new life into these classics on the PlayStation 5. Reintroducing these games through PlayStation Plus could be a promising starting line.
If the idea of launching games like Parappa the Rapper or Jet Moto at a $70 price point seems a stretch, Sony might explore introducing these games to PlayStation Plus first. With nearly 50 million subscribers, these titles would quickly reach a wide audience. This strategy could entice both fresh users and seasoned subscribers, while also drawing nostalgic gamers.
Sony might also roll out these titles as part of a monthly collection, later offering them as budget-friendly options for those outside the PlayStation Plus circle. This would maintain a sense of exclusivity for subscribers and eventually reach a broader audience. Pricing would need adjusting based on a game’s complexity and scale, but releasing them initially through PlayStation Plus could ensure immediate engagement and popularity.
By dropping smaller, digital titles on PlayStation Plus, Sony not only keeps these franchises alive but also gauges fan interest. A positive reception could pave the way for larger scale reincarnations of these beloved IPs. Maintaining quality and honoring the original essence of these games is crucial, with smaller PlayStation Plus titles serving as an excellent stepping stone for revitalizing forgotten series.
PlayStation Plus continues to be a gamer favorite with its monthly offerings. However, the treasure trove of dormant franchises Sony possesses presents a golden opportunity to elevate the service. If Sony intends to continue riding the wave of Astro Bot’s success through reviving classic IPs, PlayStation Plus might just be the perfect launch pad for these nostalgic comebacks.
