PlayStation Plus New Free Game Is a GOTY Contender: Why Fans Can’t Stop Talking About It

Why PlayStation Plus’ Latest Free Game Is Making Waves

PlayStation Plus subscribers have a new reason to celebrate this September 2025: the addition of Sword of the Sea, a visually breathtaking adventure that many fans are already calling a Game of the Year (GOTY) contender. This fresh free game offering has captured the hearts of PlayStation users worldwide with its unique art style, wordless storytelling, and captivating gameplay mechanics. If you’re a PlayStation Plus member, this is one title you don’t want to miss.

What Is Sword of the Sea?

Developed by Giant Squid, the studio behind the critically acclaimed The Pathless and ABZU, Sword of the Sea continues the tradition of delivering emotionally resonant, visually stunning experiences. The game is helmed by Matt Neva, the art director of the legendary Journey, which sets high expectations for any project connected to this iconic title.

In Sword of the Sea, players control a mysterious Wraith navigating a vast desert atop a hoversword—think of it as a skateboard or snowboard designed for seamless desert traversal. The game’s core objective is to collect Ocean Seeds scattered across the wasteland and bring life back to the barren landscape. The absence of spoken dialogue and reliance on environmental storytelling make the experience deeply immersive, much like Journey itself.

Why Fans Are Calling It a GOTY Contender

1. Artistic Excellence

Fans have been blown away by the game’s stunning desert environments, which feel both expansive and intimate. Matt Neva’s reuse of a desert setting, this time with new ideas and narrative possibilities, taps into the emotional resonance that made Journey unforgettable. The attention to detail, lighting, and atmospheric effects immerse players in a haunting yet beautiful world.

2. Innovative Gameplay

The introduction of the hoversword as a traversal tool adds a fresh dynamic to exploration. This mechanic allows for fluid movement across the landscape, encouraging players to discover hidden secrets and appreciate the environment from multiple perspectives. The game strikes a perfect balance between challenge and relaxation, inviting players to lose themselves in its serene yet mysterious world.

3. Wordless Storytelling

Like its spiritual predecessor Journey, Sword of the Sea tells its story without words, relying on visual cues, music, and player interaction to convey emotion and plot. This narrative style resonates with many players, offering a universal experience that transcends language barriers and encourages personal interpretation.

The Broader PS Plus September Lineup: A Month for Gamers

While Sword of the Sea shines on the Extra tier of PlayStation Plus, the Essential tier also offers a compelling lineup this month:

Psychonauts 2 (PS4): Dive into the quirky world of psychic espionage with Razputin Aquato as he uncovers conspiracies within the Psychonauts organization. This platform-adventure mixes humor, cinematic storytelling, and customizable powers to create a thrilling experience.
Stardew Valley (PS4): For those craving a cozy, laid-back game, Stardew Valley offers a farming sim where you restore your grandfather’s farm and rebuild a community. Its charming pixel art and engaging gameplay have made it a beloved indie classic.
Viewfinder (PS4, PS5): A puzzle game that lets you reshape reality by taking photos and placing them in the world, adding a mind-bending twist to exploration.

This diverse selection ensures there’s something for every type of gamer this September.

What This Means for PlayStation Plus Subscribers

Sony’s continued commitment to offering high-quality games through PlayStation Plus adds significant value to the subscription. With titles like Sword of the Sea arriving day one on the Extra tier, subscribers get access to some of the most innovative and artistic games without extra cost.

Fans are praising this model for giving them a chance to experience games they might not have discovered otherwise. The buzz around Sword of the Sea in particular highlights how PlayStation Plus is becoming a platform for new and exciting gaming experiences, not just a repository of older titles.

How to Get the Most Out of PlayStation Plus This September

To ensure you don’t miss out:

Claim Your Games Early: The new lineup is available from September 2, 2025. Download them as soon as possible to add them to your library.
Explore Different Genres: Try Sword of the Sea for an artistic journey, then switch gears with the action-packed Psychonauts 2 or the relaxing Stardew Valley.
Engage With the Community: Join PlayStation forums and social media groups to share experiences, tips, and fan art inspired by these games.

Final Thoughts: A Must-Play for PS Plus Members

The new Sword of the Sea addition to PlayStation Plus is more than just a free game; it’s an artistic journey that many are already celebrating as a Game of the Year contender. Its connection to Journey, innovative gameplay, and breathtaking visuals make it a highlight of the 2025 gaming calendar.

Whether you’re a fan of narrative-driven experiences or just looking for a fresh adventure to dive into, Sword of the Sea and the September PS Plus lineup offer something truly special. Don’t miss your chance to play this acclaimed title and discover why fans everywhere agree it’s a standout release.

If you’re ready to enhance your PlayStation experience, consider subscribing or renewing your PlayStation Plus membership today and unlock these incredible games.

Explore more about PlayStation Plus and grab your PlayStation Plus subscription to start playing these amazing titles instantly!