What is PlayStation Now and should I buy it?

PlayStation Now Games

PlayStation Now has over 800 games, including some released on PS2 and PS3. While most are labeled as having ongoing access, some rotate out every few months. Highlights include games like Bloodborne, The Last of Us, Resident Evil 7, Fallout 4, Red Dead Redemption, Dishonored 2, Horizon Zero Dawn, and more. If you choose not to renew your subscription and let your membership expire, you will lose access to these games until you purchase a subscription again.

PlayStation Now Streaming and downloading.

Out of its 800 games, only about 300 can be directly downloaded onto PS4 or PS5. Because you’re not reliant on internet speeds and other factors, downloading will always provide a more reliable experience than streaming a game. Sony’s streaming technology has come a long way but is imperfect, and you may still encounter lag. Thankfully, most of the more popular titles and Sony exclusives are available to download.

As for anyone looking to play PS Now games on PC, those can only be streamed. You cannot download any PS Now games to your PC. Game save progress is stored in the cloud.

PlayStation Now vs. Xbox Game Pass

One of the most significant differences between Xbox Game Pass and PlayStation Now is that all Xbox exclusives launch into the service the day they release at retail. Games such as Gears 5 and even the upcoming Halo: Infinite are released into Game Pass when available at stores. PlayStation Now generally includes older games, with the newest additions still a few months old. Xbox Game Pass also includes xCloud game streaming on Android and access to EA Play titles.

PlayStation Now Should I buy it?

For PS5 owners, I’d say that you should pick up a PlayStation Now membership. While I don’t think it offers as much value as Xbox Game Pass, the fact is that it grants you access to hundreds of games for just $60/year is a great deal, especially if you don’t want to spend between $30 to $60 on new games.

Only the 12-month membership is worth it, in my opinion, though. A three-month subscription costs $25, which is a little over $8/month. A one-month subscription will set you back $10. For $60/year ($5/month), you get the best value from the year-long membership.