Overview of Free PSN Games in August 2018
In August 2018, PlayStation Plus members could claim a curated set of free games across PlayStation 4, PlayStation 3, and PlayStation Vita through the PlayStation Store. These selections are part of the monthly subscription benefits and are available for a limited time. This overview lists each title, its supported platforms, and the claim window, while outlining how users could add these games to their libraries at no additional cost beyond an active PlayStation Plus membership.
PlayStation Plus Free Games for August 2018
The August 2018 lineup offered three free titles for PlayStation Plus subscribers, spanning different genres and console generations. Each title was accessible within a specific date range, after which new members could no longer claim them. Existing members who claimed the games retained access to them in their PlayStation libraries as long as their subscription remained active. The following table summarizes the games, platforms, and relevant dates.
| Title | Platforms | Available to Claim | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Destiny | PS4, PS3 | Aug 7 – Aug 21, 2018 | Base game included with PS Plus |
| Resogun | PS4, PS Vita | Aug 7 – Aug 21, 2018 | Classic shooter, cross-buy eligible |
| PlanetSide 2 | PS4 | Aug 7 – Aug 21, 2018 | Persistent online FPS with large-scale battles |
How PlayStation Plus Free Games Work
PlayStation Plus free games are time-limited offers available only to active subscribers. Each month, new titles are announced on the PlayStation Blog and the PlayStation Store. To claim a game, users must navigate to the offer in their store region, confirm eligibility, and accept the item to their account. Claimed games remain in the user’s library indefinitely, provided they maintain an active subscription. These promotions do not apply to demos, trials, or add-on content.
How to Claim Free Games on PS4, PS3, and Vita
Claiming PlayStation Plus free games involves a few straightforward steps in the respective system menus. Ensure your console is connected to the internet and linked to a PlayStation Plus-active account. The claim window for the August 2018 titles was from August 7 to August 21, but procedures remain relevant for future monthly offers.
Steps to Claim on PlayStation 4
- Turn on your PS4 and sign in with a PlayStation Plus account.
- Navigate to the PlayStation Store from the home screen.
- Select the Plus Hub or look for the free games section.
- Review the available titles and select the one you want.
- Choose ‘Continue’ and then ‘Download’ to add the game to your library.
- Access the game from the Home menu under Purchased content.
Steps to Claim on PlayStation Vita
- Open the PS Store on your Vita while signed into your Plus account.
- Scroll to the free games section or use the Plus Hub if available.
- Select a title and confirm eligibility.
- Choose to download or, on some versions, use a browser-based redemption link.
- Return to the home screen and launch the game from your card library.
Cross-Platform Considerations
Certain titles support cross-buy, meaning that claiming a game on one platform may grant access on other compatible systems where you’re signed in with the same account. For example, claiming Resogun on PS4 could provide the same title on PS Vita at no extra cost. Cross-save functionality is separate, typically requiring additional setup and may not apply to all games.
Eligibility, Accounts, and Regional Availability
Access to free games depends on multiple factors, including active subscription status, console system software version, and regional storefront settings. Users must be signed into a PlayStation Plus-eligible account to see and claim offers. Promotions may vary by territory due to licensing, local pricing, or content restrictions. If a subscription lapses, access to newly claimed games may be limited until membership is restored.
Additional Benefits in August 2018
Alongside free games, PlayStation Plus members often receive exclusive discounts, early access trials, and cloud storage for saves. While these offerings are separate from the monthly free titles, they contribute to the overall value of a Plus membership. Users should review the Plus benefits page for precise details on concurrent promos and policies related to refunds or account sharing.
Summary of Free Games for Reference
Below is a concise list of the free titles available in August 2018 for quick reference. These games were accessible during the specified period to active PlayStation Plus subscribers and remain playable on supported consoles for accounts that claimed them and maintained active memberships.
- Destiny: PS4 and PS3, claimable Aug 7–21, 2018. Base game included with PS Plus.
- Resogun: PS4 and PS Vita, claimable Aug 7–21, 2018. Features cross-buy support.
- PlanetSide 2: PS4 only, claimable Aug 7–Aug 21, 2018. Large-scale online shooter.
Staying Updated on Monthly Offers
New free games are announced and published each month on the official PlayStation Blog and within the PlayStation Store. Subscribers can enable notifications, review weekly updates, and manage claims through their account dashboard. Keeping your console updated and your payment and notification preferences current helps ensure timely access to these time-limited promotions.
Common Questions
Do I need PlayStation Plus to get free games?
Yes, a valid PlayStation Plus subscription is required to access and claim monthly free games. Non-subscribers may see teasers or promotions but cannot claim or download the titles.
What happens if I miss the claim window?
If you miss the limited-time window, you typically cannot claim the title later. However, if you were already an active subscriber at the time and met eligibility criteria, some support options may exist, though they are not guaranteed.
Can I share free games with others through account sharing?
Account sharing policies vary by region and platform. Playing games on another user’s console may require them to also be signed in with their own Plus subscription, depending on licensing and multiplayer functionality.
Do free games include DLC or season passes?
No, the monthly free games usually refer to the base game. Additional content such as DLC, season passes, or premium tiers are sold separately and are not part of the base offer.
Are these offers available in all regions?
While most regions receive similar monthly offers, specific titles and availability may differ due to local licensing and storefront arrangements. Always check your regional PlayStation Store for exact details.