PlayStation offers free online multiplayer weekend for PS4 and PS5 players

PlayStation gave PS4 and PS5 players free access to online multiplayer between July 3 and 5, 2026, removing the usual requirement for a PlayStation Plus subscription. Sony announced the promotion on July 1, describing it as a way to celebrate the Esports World Cup, which began in Paris on July 6.

However, the timing proved difficult for Sony. The company was also announcing broader changes to its platform policies at the same time, and many players reacted negatively on social media, expressing frustration about paid online services and concerns over digital ownership. The free weekend itself received little goodwill as a result.

Following the backlash, Sony pulled back from its usual social media activity, choosing to publish announcements through the PlayStation Blog rather than sharing them more widely.