PS Plus: Spider-Man Swings Back on August 19 with a Day-One Release and 7 More Free Games
August 19 marks the arrival of an explosive new selection on PlayStation Plus, as Manhattan’s web-slinger makes his grand return alongside a promising day-one release and seven other equally exciting titles.
PlayStation Plus continues to spoil its subscribers with an especially enticing August lineup. After making waves with July’s anniversary selection, Sony expands its catalog with new additions that complement the games offered earlier this month. This new wave brings a mix of genres, from spectacular action to innovative narrative experiences, not to mention remastered classics. A strong lineup that should easily make up for the games leaving the catalog this month.
Image credit: Insomniac Games & Sony
Spider-Man Remastered: The Triumphant Return of the Web-Slinger
Marvel’s Spider-Man Remastered makes its long-awaited comeback to the PlayStation Plus catalog, more than a year after its sudden removal in April 2023. That departure stirred controversy, as it happened just before the release of its PS5 sequel. Today, subscribers can once again step into the shoes of a seasoned and mature Peter Parker in this adventure crafted by Insomniac Games. The PS5 Remastered edition offers an optimized technical experience with blazing-fast load times and stunning visuals, while PS4 owners get access to the Game of the Year edition. With fluid acrobatic combat, vertical exploration of Manhattan, and a gripping storyline blending personal drama and urban threats, this title remains one of the best superhero adaptations ever made. Its return reinforces Sony’s rotation strategy, bringing flagship exclusives back into the spotlight.
Sword of the Sea: A Poetic Day-One Release
From the creators of Journey and ABZÛ comes Sword of the Sea, a new meditative experience that launches Day One on the service. Armed with your Hoversword, you’ll glide across golden sands and crystal waters in a breathtaking visual odyssey. The game strikes a perfect balance between fast-paced action and artistic contemplation, offering a unique surfing mechanic where every movement feels like a graceful dance. This journey promises both technical excellence and pure emotion, continuing the legacy of the studio’s masterpieces. Its simultaneous release highlights Sony’s new strategy to rival Game Pass directly with high-quality day-one content.
A Diverse and Explosive Extra Lineup
Beyond these two headliners, the Extra tier is boosted with an eclectic selection sure to please every type of player:
- Mortal Kombat 1 (PS5) – a brutal and spectacular reboot with a revamped combat system, featuring ever more impressive Fatal Blows and Fatalities.
- Earth Defense Force 6 (PS5, PS4) – an all-out war against swarms of giant aliens, playable solo or in co-op.
- Unicorn Overlord (PS5, PS4) – a gorgeous tactical RPG from the creators of 13 Sentinels, designed for fans of Fire Emblem and Final Fantasy Tactics.
- Atelier Ryza 3: Alchemist of the End & the Secret Key (PS5, PS4) – the conclusion of a beloved trilogy, blending exploration, crafting, and dynamic battles.
- Indika (PS5) – a surreal narrative adventure mixing mysticism and dark humor, where a young nun makes a pact with the devil.
- Harold Halibut (PS5) – a handcrafted stop-motion gem telling a tender yet strange fable set aboard a sunken spaceship.
- Coral Island (PS5) – a cozy island life simulator combining farming, ecology, and social interactions in daily life.
Horror Classics for Premium Subscribers
PlayStation Plus Premium members are not left out. Two survival horror classics return in their original PlayStation versions: Resident Evil 2 and Resident Evil 3: Nemesis. Modernized for the occasion, they now feature:
- Up-rendering for improved visuals,
- Rewind function to correct mistakes,
- Quick save anytime,
- Custom visual filters for a tailored atmosphere.
The perfect chance to (re)discover the roots of Raccoon City ahead of the highly anticipated release of Resident Evil Requiem next February.
And to top it all off, Premium subscribers can try Death Stranding 2: On the Beach with a 5-hour Game Trial, with saves and trophies transferable to the full game.
