If you're new to the PlayStation ecosystem--either on PS4 or the new PS5--you're going to need to be familiar with PlayStation Plus. A subscription service introduced several years ago, PlayStation Plus is required to play the majority of online PS5 and PS4 games, and you also get a few different perks and bonuses for having an active PS Plus subscription. The biggest perk is the monthly free games, which let you build up a collection without needing purchase games outright, should you so choose.

Whether you're new to PlayStation or just need a refresher, here's everything you need to know about PS Plus to help you decide if it's right for you.

What is PlayStation Plus?

PlayStation Plus is an optional service similar to Microsoft's Xbox Live Gold that provides subscribers with access to online gaming. If you want to play multiplayer titles such as Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War on your PS4 or PS5, you must have an active PlayStation Plus membership.