PlayStation Plus drops major new free feature for select subscribers

PlayStation will soon be adding a new feature for PlayStation Plus Premium subscribers, PS5 game cloud streaming.

The new feature is reportedly in the “testing” phase, and details are few and far between, with no estimated release date as of yet.

PlayStation has said it plans to make select PS5 games, titles from its Extra tier Game Catalogue, as well as Game Trials compatible with cloud streaming, negating the need to download new games to the hard drive. Obviously, it won’t be ideal for everyone as it does rely on a stable internet connection, but if you’ve got a particular speedy internet provider, it’s worth considering.

This isn’t to be confused with the existing game streaming service Premium subscribers already have access to, which includes titles from the PS1, PS2, PS3 and PS4, with some PS Vita games thrown in for good measure. The new feature applies to PlayStation 5 games, and will only be available to those on the Premium tier, so if you’re on Essential or Extra, you’ll have to upgrade.

Sony executive Nick Maquire recently spoke about the service, saying: "We think it's important for Premium members to be able to enjoy as many games as possible via cloud streaming

"As more games continue to launch on the PS5 console, we look forward to adding cloud streaming capability for PS5 titles in addition to the PS3, PS4 and classic titles that are already available for Premium members to stream … We're in the early stages right now, and we can't wait to share more details when we’re ready, including a launch time frame."

Playstation’s decision to supply users with cloud streaming capabilities could be a result of Xbox launching a similar service for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers. The service was initially in beta before officially launching in 2021, and is now available for players on both Xbox consoles and PC.

Cloud streaming also makes sense following the reveal of Sony’s new Project Q console, which was unveiled during last month’s PlayStation Showcase event. The device is essentially a handheld console similar to a Wii U controller or Nintendo Switch, which will stream games from your PS5 console, provided it shares the same internet connection.

Project Q was brutally mocked by fans, who criticised its design and functionality, since the only places you’ll be able to use it are other rooms in your home.

In other news, PlayStation recently announced the latest PlayStation Plus games for June, and fans are calling it an “amazing month” so far.