Is PlayStation Plus Required for Online Play? Yes (With Exceptions)

Yes. On PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5, an active PlayStation Plus subscription is required for most online multiplayer.

What Plus Unlocks

• Online multiplayer in paid games
• Monthly free games (claimable while subscribed)
• Cloud saves (100 GB)
• Exclusive discounts
• Share Play (stream your game to a friend)

Exceptions (No Plus Needed)

• Free-to-play titles: Fortnite, Apex Legends, Warzone, Destiny 2, Rocket League, Genshin Impact, etc.
• Single-player / local co-op — Fully offline.
• PS3 / PS Vita — Online remains free (where servers still exist).

Quick Summary

Check the game's store page — it always states "PlayStation Plus required for online multiplayer" if applicable.