Timesplitters is Coming to PlayStation Plus - for Premium Members Only

PlayStation has just unveiled its latest additions to the PlayStation Plus catalog, set to launch on August 20. This update includes a trio of cult-favorite shooters from the iconic TimeSplitters series, bringing back a beloved franchise that has been a cornerstone for fans of classic sci-fi action. However, there’s a significant caveat: these games will only be available to PlayStation Plus Premium members, the highest tier of the service.

The TimeSplitters series, known for its fast-paced, first-person shooting action reminiscent of Perfect Dark, has long been revered by fans. This marks a significant moment for the franchise, especially since the original TimeSplitters—previously exclusive to the PlayStation 2—will be accessible on modern consoles for the first time. The other two titles in the series, TimeSplitters 2 and TimeSplitters: Future Perfect, have been available on Xbox and GameCube, and through backward compatibility on newer Xbox consoles.

This addition to the PlayStation Plus catalog feels like a bittersweet victory for fans of the series. Developer Free Radical Design, the studio behind TimeSplitters, was shuttered in December 2023 amid financial turmoil at its parent company, Embracer Group. The studio’s tumultuous history includes bankruptcy, acquisition by Crytek, and a revival under Deep Silver, also part of Embracer. While the future of the TimeSplitters series remains uncertain, these classic titles provide a nostalgic trip for long-time fans.

For those on the fence about upgrading to PlayStation Plus Premium, these TimeSplitters games might be the push you need, especially if you’re a fan of retro shooters. However, if you’re not ready to make the jump, there’s still plenty to enjoy with the PlayStation Plus Extra tier.

This month’s lineup for Extra subscribers includes heavy-hitters like The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, which needs no introduction. PlayStation 5 owners will benefit from the enhanced version, featuring improved visuals, ray tracing, and faster load times. Meanwhile, Cult of the Lamb offers a unique blend of dark comedy and base-building, where you lead a cult of cute yet creepy creatures. This coincides with the game’s major Unholy Alliance update, adding two-player local co-op to the mix.

Other notable additions to the PlayStation Plus service include several Sword Art Online games, Ride 5, and more. Here’s the full breakdown of what’s coming to PlayStation Plus:

PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium:

- The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (PS4, PS5)

- Wild Hearts Standard Edition (PS5)

- Cult of the Lamb (PS4, PS5)

- Ride 5 (PS5)

- Watch Dogs 2 (PS4)

- Sword Art Online: Last Recollection (PS4, PS5)

- Naruto to Boruto: Shinobi Striker (PS4)

- Sword Art Online: Alicization Lycoris (PS4)

- Sword Art Online: Fatal Bullet (PS4)

- Sword Art Online: Hollow Realization (PS4)

PlayStation Premium: PS VR2 and Classics:

- Vacation Simulator (PS VR2)

- TimeSplitters (PS4, PS5)

- TimeSplitters 2 (PS4, PS5)

- TimeSplitters: Future Perfect (PS4, PS5)

- Sword Art Online: Lost Song (PS4, streaming version only)

Whether you’re reliving the past with TimeSplitters or diving into the latest games, there’s something for everyone in this month’s PlayStation Plus lineup.