Sony’s PlayStation division is reportedly working on its own version of Microsoft’s hugely popular game subscription service, Xbox Game Pass. The rumor stems from Bloomberg, whose sources suggest that the service, code-named “Spartacus,” will feature three tiers that offer varying benefits such as PS4/PS5 games, classic PS1 titles, and game streaming. Spartacus will supposedly launch next year.
From Bloomberg:
When it launches, expected in the spring, the service will merge Sony’s two existing subscription plans, PlayStation Plus and PlayStation Now. Currently, PlayStation Plus is required for most online multiplayer games and offers free monthly titles, while PlayStation Now allows users to stream or download older games. Documents reviewed by Bloomberg suggest that Sony plans to retain the PlayStation Plus branding but phase out PlayStation Now.
Details on Spartacus may still not be finalized, but documentation reviewed by Bloomberg outlines a service with three tiers. The first would include existing PlayStation Plus benefits. The second would offer a large catalog of PlayStation 4 and, eventually, PlayStation 5 games. The third tier would add extended demos, game streaming and a library of classic PS1, PS2, PS3 and PSP games. A representative for PlayStation didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment.
It’s unclear what the pricing for Sony’s alternative might look like, but the Ultimate and PC/console tiers of Xbox Game Pass cost $14.99 and $9.99 per month, respectively. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate includes all of the perks of the PC/console tiers but adds major features such as cloud gaming.
Source: Bloomberg