PS Plus Delivers a Knockout August 19 with 11 New Games, Including Mortal Kombat 1 and Spider-Man

The PlayStation Plus subscription service is gearing up for a massive content drop on August 19, with a total of 11 new games arriving for Extra and Premium subscribers. This month’s lineup is a true showcase of variety and a massive win for gamers, featuring a mix of major AAA titles, a day-one launch, and beloved retro classics. The headliners, Mortal Kombat 1 and Marvel’s Spider-Man, are a one-two punch that alone would make this a stellar month, but the inclusion of several highly-praised indie darlings and two classic survival horror games makes this one of the most exciting PS Plus updates in recent memory. This isn’t just a list of new games; it’s a testament to the value of the PS Plus subscription and a clear signal that Sony is committed to providing a diverse and high-quality game catalog for its members.

This August 19th update is particularly notable for its strategic timing, serving as a major boost to the service as the gaming world gears up for the holiday season. The inclusion of these high-profile titles, especially Mortal Kombat 1, which is still a very recent release, is a huge incentive for new subscribers and a reward for existing ones. It’s also a way to get players to try genres they might not otherwise, with everything from tactical RPGs to meditative indie adventures on offer. This update is a perfect example of how a subscription service can stay relevant and exciting in a crowded market.

The AAA Heavyweights: Mortal Kombat 1 and Marvel’s Spider-Man

The biggest draws of the month are undoubtedly the two high-profile blockbusters that are joining the catalog. Mortal Kombat 1, the ambitious and critically acclaimed fighting game from NetherRealm Studios, is a major get for PS Plus. This game, with its cinematic story mode, reimagined characters, and innovative Kameo system, is a must-play for fighting game fans and a perfect entry point for newcomers. It’s a game that is still incredibly popular in the competitive scene, and its inclusion will undoubtedly bring a new wave of players to the community. Similarly, Marvel’s Spider-Man is a classic in its own right. The game, which will be available to PS4 and PS5 players (with the Remastered version for PS5), is an open-world masterpiece that redefined what a superhero game could be. Its seamless web-slinging, satisfying combat, and a heartfelt story make it an essential play for any PlayStation owner. Having both of these titans of gaming on the service at the same time is a huge win for subscribers.

A Day-One Launch and Indie Gems

PS Plus is also adding a day-one launch with Sword of the Sea. From Giant Squid, the studio behind the beautiful and meditative games ABZÛ and The Pathless, Sword of the Sea is an atmospheric surfing adventure that promises to be a visual and auditory feast. Launching a game directly into a subscription service on day one is a bold move that shows confidence in the title and is a massive boon for players. The August lineup also features several other excellent indie titles that have flown under the radar for many. These include:

• Unicorn Overlord: A highly-praised tactical fantasy RPG from the creators of 13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim, which promises a deep and engaging strategic experience.
• Earth Defense Force 6: A chaotic and charming third-person shooter that has a cult following for its over-the-top action and co-op gameplay.
• Atelier Ryza 3: Alchemist of the End & the Secret Key: The final chapter in the beloved JRPG series, known for its colorful visuals and engaging alchemy system.
• Indika: A surreal and thought-provoking narrative adventure about a young nun on a journey of self-discovery.
• Harold Halibut: A handmade narrative adventure with a stunning claymation art style and a heartfelt story.
• Coral Island: A cozy farming simulation game that offers a relaxing and charming escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Classic Survival Horror for Premium Members

For those with a PS Plus Premium subscription, the classics catalog is getting two iconic additions that are sure to delight retro fans. The original Resident Evil 2 and Resident Evil 3: Nemesis will be available, offering a chance to revisit the games that defined the survival horror genre. These versions are enhanced with modern features like up-rendering and rewind, making them more accessible for today’s players. The addition of these two seminal titles is a huge boost to the classics catalog and a nostalgic trip for long-time PlayStation fans.

Conclusion: A Strong Showing for the Service

The August 19th update for PS Plus is a tour de force, with 11 games that offer something for everyone. From the high-octane action of Mortal Kombat 1 to the peaceful farming of Coral Island, the lineup is a masterclass in variety. It’s a clear signal from Sony that the company is listening to its player base and is committed to providing a valuable and engaging subscription service. This is the kind of month that not only justifies the cost of the subscription but also gets players excited about what’s to come. Get ready to download, because August 19 is going to be a huge day for PlayStation fans.