Do You Need PlayStation Plus to Play CoD Multiplayer? The Definitive Answer
Generally, yes, you absolutely need PlayStation Plus to play Call of Duty’s multiplayer modes. However, there are some limited exceptions to this rule, typically associated with free-to-play CoD titles.
Understanding the PlayStation Plus Requirement
PlayStation Plus, Sony’s subscription service for PlayStation consoles, is a gateway to a plethora of online gaming features and benefits. While it offers more than just multiplayer access, it is the primary key to joining your friends and other gamers in the fast-paced world of Call of Duty multiplayer. For the vast majority of traditional, purchased Call of Duty games, PlayStation Plus is non-negotiable.
Why PlayStation Plus is Typically Required for CoD
The reason Sony imposes this requirement is multifaceted. It generates revenue, of course, which supports the PlayStation Network infrastructure. This infrastructure includes the servers needed to host online games like Call of Duty, as well as network security and maintenance. Furthermore, PlayStation Plus provides additional benefits, which Sony hopes will incentivize gamers to subscribe.
Benefits of PlayStation Plus for CoD Players
Subscribing to PlayStation Plus grants you access to a host of benefits, not just the ability to play CoD multiplayer. These perks can significantly enhance your gaming experience:
- Online Multiplayer Access: The core benefit – allows you to play Call of Duty multiplayer and other online games.
- Monthly Games: Receive free downloadable games each month, expanding your library at no extra cost.
- Exclusive Discounts: Access exclusive discounts on games and add-ons in the PlayStation Store.
- Cloud Storage: Store game saves in the cloud, ensuring your progress is safe even if your console fails.
- Share Play: Allows you to share your screen and even give control of your game to a friend online.
How to Subscribe to PlayStation Plus
Subscribing to PlayStation Plus is a straightforward process:
- Navigate to the PlayStation Store: From your PlayStation console’s home screen, select the PlayStation Store icon.
- Search for PlayStation Plus: Use the search function to find “PlayStation Plus.”
- Choose a Subscription Tier: Select a subscription tier that suits your needs (Essential, Extra, or Premium). Each tier offers different benefits and pricing.
- Add to Cart and Purchase: Add the chosen subscription to your cart and proceed to checkout. You will need a valid payment method linked to your PlayStation account.
- Confirm Your Subscription: Once the purchase is complete, your PlayStation Plus subscription will be activated, granting you access to online multiplayer and other benefits.
Free-to-Play Call of Duty Titles: An Exception
The landscape shifted slightly with the rise of free-to-play (F2P) Call of Duty titles, such as Call of Duty: Warzone and Call of Duty: Mobile. For these games, Sony initially lifted the PlayStation Plus requirement. However, it’s crucial to always verify the current PlayStation policy, as subscription needs for free-to-play games can change.
Checking the PlayStation Plus Requirement for a Specific CoD Game
The easiest way to determine if PlayStation Plus is required for a particular Call of Duty game is to:
- Check the Game’s Description on the PlayStation Store: The store listing will clearly state whether PlayStation Plus is required for online multiplayer.
- Consult the Official PlayStation Support Website: Sony’s support website provides up-to-date information about PlayStation Plus requirements for various games.
- Search Online Forums and Communities: Other players may have already encountered this question and shared their experiences.
Common Mistakes and Misconceptions
A common mistake is assuming that because you can access the Call of Duty menu, you can play online multiplayer. Often, the game allows you to navigate the menu and even select a multiplayer mode, but attempts to connect will result in an error message indicating that PlayStation Plus is required. Another misconception is that if you have PlayStation Plus for another game, it automatically applies to all Call of Duty titles. Each game requires a separate check.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I play Call of Duty: Warzone without PlayStation Plus?
The answer depends on whether the game remains free-to-play and Sony’s policies. Initially, yes, you could play Warzone without PlayStation Plus. Always verify the current PlayStation policy.
Q2: What happens if my PlayStation Plus subscription expires while I’m playing Call of Duty?
Your access to online multiplayer will be immediately revoked. You might still be able to play the single-player campaign, but you won’t be able to join online matches until you renew your subscription.
Q3: Are there any free weekends or promotions where I can play Call of Duty multiplayer without PlayStation Plus?
Yes, Sony occasionally offers free multiplayer weekends or promotions that allow you to play online games, including Call of Duty, without a PlayStation Plus subscription. These events are usually announced on the PlayStation Blog and social media.
Q4: Does PlayStation Plus provide any in-game benefits or advantages in Call of Duty?
No, PlayStation Plus itself does not provide any in-game advantages in Call of Duty. It simply grants you access to the online multiplayer modes. Any advantages you gain will depend on your skill and strategy.
Q5: Can I use a PlayStation Plus subscription from a different region to play Call of Duty?
It is generally recommended to use a PlayStation Plus subscription that matches the region of your PlayStation account. Using a subscription from a different region may lead to compatibility issues or restrictions.
Q6: Is there a way to share my PlayStation Plus subscription with family members to play Call of Duty on separate consoles?
Yes, PlayStation’s console sharing and offline play features allow you to share some PlayStation Plus benefits with family members. However, this is limited to one primary console.
Q7: Does the type of PlayStation Plus subscription (Essential, Extra, or Premium) affect my ability to play Call of Duty multiplayer?
No, all PlayStation Plus subscription tiers grant you access to online multiplayer for Call of Duty and other compatible games. The different tiers primarily offer additional benefits like a game catalog and cloud streaming.
Q8: Will I be able to play the Call of Duty campaign (single-player mode) without PlayStation Plus?
Yes, you do not need PlayStation Plus to play the single-player campaign of Call of Duty games. The subscription is only required for accessing the online multiplayer modes.
Q9: How can I confirm if my PlayStation Plus subscription is active?
You can check the status of your PlayStation Plus subscription by going to Settings > Account Management > Account Information > PlayStation Plus on your PlayStation console.
Q10: If I buy a physical copy of Call of Duty, do I still need PlayStation Plus to play multiplayer?
Yes, regardless of whether you buy a digital or physical copy of Call of Duty, you still need PlayStation Plus to play the online multiplayer modes.
Q11: Is it possible to play local multiplayer (split-screen) in Call of Duty without PlayStation Plus?
Yes, local multiplayer (split-screen) does not require PlayStation Plus. You can play with friends or family on the same console without a subscription.
Q12: Are there any parental control features related to PlayStation Plus and Call of Duty multiplayer?
Yes, PlayStation offers parental control features that allow you to manage your child’s access to online multiplayer, communication, and content. You can set age restrictions, communication limits, and spending limits for their account.