Are you looking to get the most out of your console this holiday season? The latest drop of playstation plus games has officially arrived, and it is arguably one of the strongest lineups Sony has released all year. Whether you are subscribed to the Essential, Extra, or Premium tier, the December 2025 catalog is packed with blockbuster hits, indie gems, and day-one releases that you cannot afford to miss.
In this detailed guide, we break down every single title available right now, review the hidden gems, and help you decide if upgrading your subscription is worth it for these playstation plus games.
Why the December 2025 PlayStation Plus Games Are a Must-Play
Sony has stepped up its game to close out 2025. Unlike previous months where we saw a mix of older titles, the current selection of playstation plus games includes high-profile “Day 1” releases and triple-A blockbusters that were sold at full price just months ago.
For gamers chasing variety, this month offers everything from cooperative machine-hunting action to intense soulslike combat. If you are aiming to clear your backlog or find something new for the holidays, the current rotation of playstation plus games provides hundreds of hours of gameplay value.
Pro Tip: Make sure to add the “Essential” tier games to your library before the month ends. Once claimed, they are yours to keep as long as you have an active subscription.
Top PlayStation Plus Games for Essential Members (Available Now)
If you are on the base tier, you are in luck. The playstation plus games for the Essential tier in December 2025 are available to download right now (released December 2nd).
1. LEGO Horizon Adventures (PS5)
This is the headline act. Co-developed by Guerrilla Games, this title reimagines the post-apocalyptic world of Aloy in a charming, brick-based format. It is perfect for family couch co-op.
- Why play it? It combines the deep lore of Horizon Zero Dawn with the accessible fun of LEGO.
- Best for: Parents, kids, and fans of action-adventure platformers.
2. Killing Floor 3 (PS5)
A massive “get” for the service. Killing Floor 3 brings the gore and chaos of wave-based shooters to the next level. You and your squad face off against bio-engineered monstrosities in a dystopian future.
- Why play it? It is one of the best co-op shooters currently available on the market.
3. The Outlast Trials (PS4, PS5)
If you enjoy horror, this is a standout among this month’s playstation plus games. Experience mind-numbing terror with friends as you try to survive psychological experiments gone wrong.
New PlayStation Plus Games for Extra and Premium (Coming Dec 16)
The “Game Catalog” for Extra and Premium members is getting a massive refresh mid-month. These playstation plus games will be playable starting December 16, 2025.
Assassin’s Creed Mirage (PS5, PS4)
Ubisoft’s return to roots is finally here. Mirage strips away the RPG bloat of Valhalla and focuses on stealth, parkour, and assassinations in 9th-century Baghdad.
- Verdict: A focused, 20-hour adventure that feels like the classic AC games we loved.
Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty (PS5, PS4)
From the makers of Nioh, this dark fantasy Three Kingdoms action game is brutal but rewarding. If you love parrying mechanics and challenging boss fights, this is the highlight of the playstation plus games catalog this month.
Granblue Fantasy: Relink (PS5, PS4)
An action RPG with stunning anime visuals and spectacular combat. This game took years to develop, and the polish shows. It’s a fantastic addition for JRPG fans.
Skate Story (PS5) – Available Now
A surprise addition! This game actually dropped early on December 8. You play as a demon made of glass skating through the underworld. The visual style is unique and incredibly “Discover friendly” for sharing screenshots.
Is It Worth Upgrading for These PlayStation Plus Games?
A common question we get at DigiPeekr is whether the higher tiers are worth the money. When analyzing the value of these playstation plus games, the answer for December is a resounding YES.
If you were to buy Assassin’s Creed Mirage, Wo Long, and LEGO Horizon Adventures separately, you would be spending over $150. An annual upgrade to Extra costs significantly less than that.
Comparison Table: Tier Value
| Feature | Essential Base Tier |
Extra RECOMMENDED |
Premium Ultimate Tier |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Games (e.g., Lego Horizon, Killing Floor 3) |
Included | Included | Included |
| Online Multiplayer | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Game Catalog (400+ PS4/PS5 Games like AC Mirage) |
Access Included | Access Included | |
| Classics Catalog (PS1, PS2, PSP Games) |
Yes | ||
| Cloud Streaming (Play without downloading) |
Yes | ||
| December 2025 Verdict | Good Start Best for casual players. |
Best Value Must-have for Wo Long & AC Mirage. |
For Enthusiasts Only if you want retro games. |
Leaving Soon: Last Chance to Play
Part of managing your playstation plus games library is knowing what is leaving. On December 16, 2025, the following titles will be removed from the Extra/Premium catalog:
- Battlefield 2042
- Forspoken
- Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin
If you are in the middle of these, finish them now before they are locked behind a paywall again.
Conclusion: A Strong Finish to 2025
The December lineup of playstation plus games proves that Sony is serious about competing with Game Pass. With a mix of family-friendly titles like LEGO Horizon and hardcore experiences like Wo Long, there is something for everyone.
Don’t forget to claim your Essential games immediately, and clear some SSD space for the massive drop coming on the 16th.
What is your favorite game in this month’s lineup? Let us know in the comments below!
FAQs
Q: When can I download the December PlayStation Plus games?
A: Essential games are available now (released Dec 2). Extra and Premium games drop on December 16, 2025.
Q: Do I keep these games forever?
A: You keep Essential games forever as long as you subscribe. Extra/Premium games are only playable while they remain in the catalog.
Q: Is LEGO Horizon Adventures couch co-op?
A: Yes! It supports local co-op, making it one of the best playstation plus games for families this month.
I selected this video because it provides the official visual breakdown of the Extra and Premium games discussed in the blog post, which is highly relevant for users wanting to see gameplay footage before downloading.