Do you need PS Plus to play GTA Online on PlayStation?

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Can you play GTA Online without subscribing to PlayStation Plus?

Do you need PS Plus to play GTA Online on PlayStation?
(Image credit: Rockstar Games)

Do you need PS Plus to play GTA Online is a question asked by plenty of PlayStation owners, as although that requirement applies to most online games on Sony's platforms there are certain exceptions where this isn't implemented. Following the introduction of an expanded tier system and price increases, an annual subscription for this service can now be a serious investment on a par with one or more big releases, which means it's not always possible to sign up while still keeping up with the newest games. The world of GTA Online is huge, so you can definitely get many hours of enjoyment out of it, but is Los Santos open to all? Here's the lowdown on whether you need PS Plus to play GTA Online, and if there are any ways to connect for free.

Can you play GTA Online without PS Plus?

GTA Online

(Image credit: Rockstar Games)

The short answer, we're afraid, is that you do need PS Plus to play GTA Online on PlayStation, which is in line with most other games on Sony's platforms. This keeps the PlayStation Plus subscription offering consistent, as players then know that if they want to play any game online (excluding certain free to play titles such as Fortnite) they'll need to sign up to the service. If you're not currently a subscriber, then you can join using one of these PS Plus deals.

This applies whether you're using the version included with GTA 5, or the more recent standalone release of GTA Online, which was initially offered as a free download on PS5 but you'll now need to purchase if you missed that offer.

However, there are occasions where Sony and Rockstar will collaborate to temporarily remove the need for PS Plus to play GTA Online on PlayStation. This is usually tied to the release of big updates or a holiday season, so keep an eye out for announcements of when you can play without PlayStation Plus. These events are fleeting and often only last for a week or two, so if you need them then be prepared to make the most out of your free access time.

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Iain Wilson
Iain Wilson
Guides Editor

Iain originally joined Future in 2012 to write guides for CVG, PSM3, and Xbox World, before moving on to join GamesRadar in 2013 as Guides Editor. His words have also appeared in OPM, OXM, PC Gamer, GamesMaster, and SFX. He is better known to many as ‘Mr Trophy’, due to his slightly unhealthy obsession with amassing intangible PlayStation silverware, and he now has well over 900 Platinum pots weighing down the shelves of his virtual award cabinet. He does not care for Xbox Achievements.

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