United Gaming – One of the most exciting parts of a PS Plus subscription? The thrill of discovering games you’d likely have never tried otherwise! It’s like a surprise gift every month, with the chance to uncover hidden gems, indie masterpieces, and surprise favorites that instantly become new obsessions. Over time, I’ve stumbled upon games that went from “let’s give it a shot” to “I can’t stop playing.” Here are some of the absolute gems I discovered thanks to PS Plus – and why they’re worth checking out!
Hollow Knight – A Beautifully Haunting Adventure (PS Plus)
PS Plus introduced me to Hollow Knight, a 2D action-adventure game that quickly went from “maybe” to “must-play.” Set in a mysterious underground world filled with secrets and eerie charm, Hollow Knight has you exploring and battling your way through a labyrinth of connected areas, each more intricate and haunting than the last.
Why You’ll Love It:
The game’s hand-drawn art and atmospheric soundtrack create a captivating experience, and the combat is satisfyingly challenging. Hollow Knight doesn’t hold your hand, which makes every discovery feel earned. If you’re into Metroidvania-style games or love a well-crafted dark fantasy, Hollow Knight is a must.
Celeste – A Platformer with Heart and Depth (PS Plus)
I wasn’t sure what to expect when I downloaded Celeste, a pixel-art platformer that appeared simple on the surface. However, it quickly revealed itself as one of the most emotionally resonant and challenging games I’ve ever played. You play as Madeline, a young woman climbing Celeste Mountain, and along the way, you navigate her struggles with self-doubt and anxiety.
Why You’ll Love It:
Celeste combines tight platforming mechanics with a meaningful narrative about mental health. The gameplay is challenging, but the difficulty feels balanced and rewarding. Each level presents new mechanics and obstacles, ensuring the gameplay stays fresh. PS Plus brought this game into my life, and I couldn’t be more grateful.
The Witness – A Puzzle Game That’ll Make You Feel Like a Genius (Eventually)
I’d heard about The Witness before but had never gotten around to it. Thanks to PS Plus, I finally gave it a shot, and wow, am I glad I did. This first-person puzzle game drops you on a colorful, mysterious island, challenging you to solve increasingly complex puzzles without any tutorials or hints.
Why You’ll Love It:
The game is beautifully designed, with each puzzle subtly teaching you how to solve the next one. It’s a slow burn but incredibly satisfying. If you love games that make you think and don’t mind the occasional (okay, frequent) head-scratching, The Witness is an unforgettable experience.
Subnautica – An Oceanic Survival Adventure with Depth (Literally)
Subnautica was a game I’d heard whispers about, but it wasn’t until PS Plus offered it that I decided to dive in—literally! This underwater survival game throws you into an alien ocean, where you’ll craft, explore, and uncover the mysteries of the deep.
Why You’ll Love It:
The ocean is vast and teeming with both beauty and danger. Every dive is an adventure, as you balance oxygen, resources, and the lurking threat of creatures you hope not to encounter. It’s immersive, thrilling, and downright terrifying at times. A survival gem that I wouldn’t have played if not for PS Plus.
Enter the Gungeon – Bullet Hell Meets Roguelike Goodness PS Plus
Enter the chaotic, retro world of Enter the Gungeon, a roguelike, bullet-hell shooter that quickly became one of my favorites after a PS Plus download. This game is packed with action, humor, and an incredible array of weapons (including a literal bullet that shoots guns).
Why You’ll Love It:
With procedurally generated levels, Enter the Gungeon keeps every run fresh and unpredictable. The gameplay is addictive, and the difficulty level is just challenging enough to keep you coming back for “one more run.” The humor and style are a fun bonus, making this a must-try for roguelike fans.
Hyper Light Drifter – Pixel Art Brilliance Meets Atmospheric Storytelling
Hyper Light Drifter is an action RPG with pixel-perfect visuals and an atmosphere that pulls you right in. This game’s exploration and combat mechanics are both satisfying and fluid, and I only stumbled upon it thanks to PS Plus.
Why You’ll Love It:
The world of Hyper Light Drifter is mesmerizing, full of mystery, and, at times, unforgiving. There’s little dialogue, but the story unfolds through the environment and the challenges you face. Fans of minimalist storytelling and games that leave things open to interpretation will be captivated.
Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night – A Modern Take on a Classic Formula
Thanks to PS Plus, I discovered Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night, a spiritual successor to Castlevania that brought back all the gothic adventure I didn’t know I was missing. With classic platforming elements and modern gameplay mechanics, Bloodstained hit that nostalgic sweet spot while feeling fresh and new.
Why You’ll Love It:
The gameplay is a blend of action and RPG elements, with plenty of customization, exploration, and epic boss fights. It’s like playing a retro game but with all the enhancements you’d expect in 2023. A perfect blend of old and new.
Absolver – A Unique Take on Multiplayer Combat
I didn’t expect much when I downloaded Absolver, but it quickly hooked me with its unique combat system and minimalist design. This online melee fighting game lets you build your own fighting style by combining moves, parries, and attacks in a way that’s personal and surprisingly deep.
Why You’ll Love It:
Absolver stands out for its fluid, strategy-based combat system that feels different from anything else I’d played. It’s not just about button-mashing but learning to read your opponent and respond accordingly. It’s one of those games that rewards practice and patience, and PS Plus gave me the chance to try it out.
Horizon Chase Turbo – A Retro Racer with Modern Flair PS Plus
As a fan of old-school arcade racing games, Horizon Chase Turbo was a delightful find. With its retro-inspired graphics and fast-paced gameplay, it’s an homage to classics like Out Run but with updated visuals and mechanics.
Why You’ll Love It:
This game is pure fun, with a simplicity that makes it easy to pick up and play. Horizon Chase Turbo is great for anyone looking to scratch that nostalgic itch while enjoying a polished, modern racing experience. Perfect for a quick gaming session.
Shadow of the Colossus – A Classic, Reborn in Stunning Detail
I knew of Shadow of the Colossus but had never experienced it firsthand. PS Plus gave me the chance, and let me tell you, the remake is absolutely breathtaking. You play as a lone warrior, tasked with taking down massive creatures across a hauntingly beautiful landscape.
Why You’ll Love It:
This game is an epic in every sense. The scale, the atmosphere, and the storytelling are nothing short of masterful. Even though it’s a remake, it feels timeless, and every encounter with a colossus is a reminder of why this game is a legend.
Why PS Plus Is Perfect for Discovering Hidden Gems
PS Plus isn’t just a subscription service; it’s like a treasure chest filled with games you might otherwise overlook. From platformers and puzzle games to massive RPGs and survival epics, I’ve found a little of everything through PS Plus, and these hidden gems have been some of my best gaming experiences.
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