It’s that time of the month again. As the final Wednesday of June arrives, Sony has confirmed the trio of games headed to the cheapest and most popular tier of its revamped PS Plus lineup – and they’re well worth their weight in gold.
The headliner, obviously, is Alan Wake Remastered. Its inclusion couldn’t be more perfectly timed, with the release of the much-anticipated Alan Wake II slated for October. This 2021 remaster of Remedy Entertainment’s acclaimed game offers an ideal opportunity to dive into the original narrative. Set in the eerie town of Bright Falls, players follow thriller novelist Alan Wake on a heart-pounding quest as he searches for his missing wife. The remastered edition, which came out in 2021, has 4K visuals, along with cutscenes, bonus DLC episodes “The Signal” and “The Writer”, and an added commentary track by writer Sam Lake. It’s the complete package, making the wait for the sequel more bearable and far more thrilling.
Not too far behind in terms of ideal timing is Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War. As the war of words between Microsoft and Sony as well as Activision Blizzard and Bethesda, all take place as part of the Microsoft vs. FTC trial, the game serves as a reminder of the type of game that Sony is vehemently opposed to leaving exclusive to a singular platform. Ironically, we’ve heard rumblings that Treyarch, the developers of Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War, might end up releasing their next entry this year or next year. In any case, this Cross-Gen bundle, available for both PS4 and PS5, ensures an immersive and unforgettable gaming experience.
Despite being arguably lesser-known, the final free game for July, Endling – Extinction is Forever, brings its own brand of compelling gameplay. Assuming the role of the last mother fox on earth, you’re tasked with protecting your cubs in a world ravaged by human greed and destruction. This 3D side-scroller serves as a poignant commentary on climate change and environmental exploitation, wrapped up in beautiful visuals and immersive gameplay. A nominee at The Game Awards 2022 Games for Change, it promises an experience that’s as thought-provoking as it is adventurous.
This stellar lineup provides PlayStation Plus subscribers with a versatile mix of gaming experiences. From the intense shoot-’em-up battles of Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War to the mind-bending narrative of Alan Wake Remastered, and even the solemn, survival-driven journey of Endling – Extinction is Forever. Each game serves a unique offering to satisfy diverse gaming appetites.
July’s PlayStation Plus Essential offering exemplifies the breadth and depth of the gaming universe, from action-packed blockbuster franchises to thoughtful indie titles, and masterful remasters that give new life to beloved narratives.
Whether you’re a newcomer to these titles or eager to revisit them, this selection promises hours of engaging gameplay and compelling storytelling.
As we leave June’s lineup behind, July’s games are ready to claim their spot in your library, promising a month of gaming that’s as diverse as it is memorable.
