Although you've spent hundreds of dollars buying a PlayStation, you still have to pay extra for some features of the console. As such, you might be wondering if you can use PlayStation Network (PSN) for free.
We're going to explain what PSN is, whether it costs anything, and how it differs to PlayStation Plus.
What Is PlayStation Network?
If you are wondering what PlayStation Network (PSN) is, it's an online service that powers various Sony devices, primarily the PlayStation consoles. It launched in 2006 in conjunction with the PS3 and now has over 100 million active monthly users.
The service encompasses a variety of functionality including the PlayStation Store, PlayStation Plus, PlayStation Video, PlayStation Music, and PlayStation Trophies.
Is PlayStation Network Free?
Yes, PSN is free. If you want to use any of your PlayStation's online functionality, whether that's buying games in the store or earning trophies as you play, you need to sign up to PSN.
Signing up to PSN also gives you your PSN ID, which acts as your username. Others can use this to add you to their friends list. Your PSN ID will also help to identify you when playing online.
It's free to have a PSN account, customize your profile, add friends, chat with others, and earn trophies. Your games will also automatically update for free.
You need a subscription to PlayStation Plus if you want to play online multiplayer in purchased games. PlayStation Plus also comes with other perks, like free monthly games and store discounts.
However, this doesn't apply to free-to-play games. You can play these online for free without a PlayStation Plus subscription.
Some other PSN services are free to download, but not free to use. For example, you can use PSN to download entertainment apps like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, along with PlayStation Video and PlayStation Music, but you still need to pay the separate subscriptions to these platforms.
Play Online for Free With PSN
As mentioned, PSN lets you play free-to-play games online without costing you a dime. That includes the likes of Rocket League, Call of Duty: Warzone, and Fortnite.
If you've picked up Fortnite, or any of the other games mentioned, there is plenty of information available that covers all the controls and tips you need to win.