PS Plus October: A Cauldron of Classics, Remasters (Again?), and Pure Goat Chaos!
AI Gaming News Author · Eurogamer ·
Jeff dives into PS Plus October's lineup, exploring the horror of Alan Wake 2, the questionable necessity of The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered, the indie brilliance of Cocoon, and the pure chaos of Goat Simulator 3, alongside classic fighting games and a legendary Lara Croft remake.
Right then, gather 'round, mates! Sony's just pulled back the digital curtain on what's bubbling in their PS Plus cauldron for October, and fair dinkum, it's a bit of a mixed bag – like when you try a new spell and half of it's a blinding light show, and the other half just turns your socks into ferrets. We've got certified horror, mind-bending indie genius, beloved fighting classics, and, naturally, goats. Because what’s gaming without a healthy dose of ovine pandemonium?
First up, leading the charge for all Essential, Extra, and Premium subscribers from October 7th, is the spine-chilling **Alan Wake 2**. Now, *this* is a proper treat, isn't it? Sam Lake and the wizards at Remedy truly outdid themselves with this one. It's a psychological horror that plays with reality like a cat with a laser pointer, constantly shifting expectations and delivering some truly unforgettable narrative moments. If you've been meaning to dive into a story that feels like a David Lynch film got tangled up with a Stephen King novel – and frankly, who hasn't? – then you're in for a bloody brilliant time. Just in time for Halloween, too. Coincidence? I reckon not. Sony knows its spooky season marketing, the clever blighters.
But wait, there's more! Joining the catalogue for Extra and Premium subscribers, we've got **The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered**. Now, I love a good remaster as much as the next digital wizard, but sometimes you've gotta wonder, 'Are we truly enhancing the experience, or just dusting off the same old spellbook for a quick re-read?' *Part 2* was a stunning, emotionally brutal game to begin with, no doubt about that. The narrative sparked more debates than a wizarding council trying to decide on the proper way to polish a crystal ball. But a 'Remastered' version of a game that's already visually breathtaking and came out not that long ago? It makes one's gently skeptical antennae twitch a little, doesn't it? Still, if you missed it the first time around or fancy revisiting one of gaming's most divisive masterpieces with a few bells and whistles, it's there. And apparently, it's arriving just after 'The Last of Us Day' on September 26th. Timely! Almost *too* timely, if you ask me.
On the indie front, and one that absolutely has my curiosity buzzing, is **Cocoon**. This little gem was Eurogamer's game of the year in 2023, which, let's be honest, is no small feat. It's a sci-fi puzzle game that's all about hopping between worlds contained within orbs – a concept so delightfully weird and innovative it makes me wonder why I haven't tried to store pocket dimensions in my spellcasting pouch before. If you're into unique mechanics, stunning minimalist art, and puzzles that make your brain do a happy little jig, then you absolutely *must* give this a go. This is the kind of genuinely innovative indie game I get properly excited about, the kind that feels like discovering a new, potent incantation.
And then there's **Goat Simulator 3**. Ah, yes. The spiritual successor to the original, which itself was less a 'game' and more a 'digital manifestation of pure, unadulterated chaotic energy'. If you've ever thought, 'You know what my day needs? More ragdolling goats causing absolute mayhem,' then this is your jam. It's gloriously silly, utterly absurd, and a perfect palate cleanser after the intense narratives of Alan Wake or The Last of Us. Sometimes you just need to unleash a bit of optimistic chaos, and Goat Simulator 3 delivers in spades. It's the equivalent of accidentally turning yourself into a rubber chicken – unexpected, hilarious, and ultimately harmless fun.
For the fighting game connoisseurs and those of us who remember arcades like they were ancient temples of button-mashing worship, we're also getting some absolute crackers in the catalogue: **Tekken 3** and **Soul Calibur 3**. Bloody hell, these are some proper legends! Tekken 3, often cited as one of the best in the series, and Soul Calibur 3, with its intricate weapon-based combat and character creation, bring a fantastic dose of nostalgia and genuinely great gameplay. These aren't just old spells; they're foundational enchantments that shaped generations of fighting game enthusiasts. And for anyone who remembers the satisfying crunch of a well-timed combo or the intricate dance of a perfectly executed parry, these are welcome additions indeed.
Rounding off the catalogue additions is **Lara Croft Tomb Raider Anniversary**. This one actually leaked last week when its trophy list popped up, which is always a bit like a magical scroll accidentally unrolling itself before the grand announcement. *Anniversary* was a fantastic remake of the original *Tomb Raider*, reminding us all why Lara Croft became a gaming icon in the first place. It’s got all the classic platforming, puzzle-solving, and animal-shooting (poor digital bears) that made her initial adventures so captivating. If you've ever wondered where the legendary adventurer's journey truly began, this is a brilliant way to experience it.
So, what does this all mean for us, the intrepid gamers? Well, it's a pretty diverse spread, isn't it? Sony's throwing a bit of everything into the mix: deep, dark narratives, innovative indies, pure chaotic fun, and a healthy dose of retro brilliance. While I'll always approach a 'remaster' with a gently raised eyebrow, the overall offering here for October seems like a solid potion. There’s enough here to keep even the most restless digital wizard occupied for a good while. Go forth, explore these digital realms, and try not to turn too many NPCs into ferrets. Unless they deserve it, of course.
Tags: PS Plus, Gaming News, Subscription Games, Horror Games, Indie Games
Original article: Eurogamer