As the summer season kicks in, PS Plus subscribers have a new set of free games to look forward to, courtesy of PlayStation's June announcement. The lineup includes a notable title from an unexpected publisher: Xbox's Grounded Fully Yoked Edition. This survival sim, where players navigate the dangers of a backyard as tiny humans, is a welcome addition for many, especially those who missed it on Xbox. Available on both PS5 and PS4, Grounded promises an engaging experience, especially for co-op enthusiasts looking to explore its intricate backyard world without the Xbox ecosystem.
The June free games, available to all PS Plus subscribers (Essential, Extra, and Premium) from June 2 to July 6, also include Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl 2 (PS5, PS4), promising chaotic multiplayer fun, and Warhammer 40,000: Darktide (PS5), a co-op shooter that has improved significantly from its launch state through patches. However, the repetition of EA Sports FC 26 (PS5, PS4) from the previous month's freebies has not gone down well with the community, sparking noticeable unhappiness among subscribers who feel shortchanged by the lack of a new title in its place.
Full Game List — June 2024
- Grounded Fully Yoked Edition | Developer: Obsidian Entertainment, Publisher: Xbox Game Studios | PS5, PS4 | Survival Sim
- Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl 2 | Developer: Iron Galaxy, Publisher: THQ Nordic | PS5, PS4 | Fighting Game
- Warhammer 40,000: Darktide | Developer: Embark Studio, Publisher: Fatshark | PS5 | Co-op Shooter
- EA Sports FC 26 | Developer: EA Canada, Publisher: Electronic Arts | PS5, PS4 | Sports Game
The Standout Picks
Grounded Fully Yoked Edition** stands out as the most anticipated title in this lineup, especially for its unique blend of survival mechanics and cooperative play. Players must gather resources, craft tools, and build shelters while fending off giant insects in a backyard environment. This title is a significant catch for PS Plus, offering a game that was previously exclusive to the Xbox and PC ecosystems. Its inclusion is particularly welcomed by those eager to play with friends who are predominantly on PlayStation.
Warhammer 40,000: Darktide, despite its rocky launch, has been patched into a competent co-op experience. Fans of the Warhammer 40k universe or those looking for a free shooter to play with friends will find Darktide** to be a solid, if not spectacular, addition to their library. The game's improvement over time makes it a good value for subscribers looking to try out a co-op focused title without additional cost.
Community Reaction and the EA Sports FC 26 Conundrum
The community's response to June's lineup has been mixed, with enthusiasm for Grounded being overshadowed by disappointment over EA Sports FC 26's repeat appearance. Subscribers have expressed unhappiness on social media platforms, feeling that the repeat freebie is a missed opportunity to offer something new. This backlash underscores the expectation for diversity in the free game selections each month. On the other hand, the inclusion of Grounded has been met with positive reactions, with many looking forward to experiencing its unique gameplay without needing to purchase it.
How to Claim / Access
To claim these titles, simply navigate to the PlayStation Store on your PS5 or PS4, find the games under the PS Plus section, and add them to your library before July 6. Ensure your PS Plus subscription (Essential, Extra, or Premium) is active to redeem and play these games at no additional cost.
Don’t forget, you have until June 2 to claim May’s freebies, Wuchang: Fallen Feathers and Nine Sols, if you haven’t already.
Closing Thoughts
This June lineup for PS Plus is a mixed bag, buoyed by the unexpected and welcome inclusion of Grounded Fully Yoked Edition but dragged down by the controversial repeat of EA Sports FC 26. While the community's negative response to the sports title's reuse is understandable, the overall value for subscribers, especially those eager for a new co-op experience or a taste of Xbox's catalog, remains palpable. As the gaming community looks towards the next set of free titles, the hope is for more surprises like Grounded and fewer repeats.
Key Takeaways
- PS Plus June free games include Grounded Fully Yoked Edition, Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl 2, Warhammer 40,000: Darktide, and EA Sports FC 26.
- Games are available from June 2 to July 6 for all PS Plus subscribers.
- EA Sports FC 26’s repeat inclusion has met with community unhappiness.
- Grounded is a notable pickup for co-op fans and those missing out on Xbox exclusives.
