Sony Interactive Entertainment has announced the titles coming to PlayStation Plus Essential for March 2025, headlined by the much-anticipated role-playing game, Dragon Age: The Veilguard on PS5. Just four months after its release on October 31, 2024, the game will be available to all PlayStation Plus subscribers starting March 4, making it accessible to curious gamers who might have missed it initially.
Dragon Age: The Veilguard is set ten years after its predecessor, Dragon Age: Inquisition. Incorporate action-oriented gameplay, it encourages players to gather teams to stop corrupt ancient gods wreaking havoc across the enchanting land of Thedas. Despite its intriguing story and meaningful companion quests, EA's CEO Andrew Wilson stated during the recent earnings call, "the game did not resonate with a broad enough audience," indicating it has not performed to expectations.
This month also features Sonic Colors: Ultimate for PS4, which is the remastered version of the 2010 classic featuring highs, lows, and intergalactic escapades against the villainous Dr. Eggman. Players are called to liberate the captured Wisps enslaved to power Eggman's new theme park. Enhanced visuals and new gameplay modes mark this refreshed adventure.
Completing the lineup is the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Cowabunga Collection, available on both PS4 and PS5. This collection includes 13 classic titles from the commemorated franchise developed by Konami over the years. Gamers can expect not only nostalgia but also enhanced features such as local couch co-op and online play, along with the option to save progress at any point.
These March titles, accessible until March 31, provide substantial options for gamers, but they also signal shifting strategies from Sony. Just last month, subscriptions provided access to new releases like Payday 3, High on Life, and Pac-Man World Re-Pac. Now, subscribers will see these games replaced by fan-favorites, marking Sony's continuing approach to enrich the PlayStation Plus library.
Interestingly, the swift transition of Dragon Age: The Veilguard to a free offering raises eyebrows across the gaming community. "It’s wild to see how quickly it’s coming to a subscription service," observed Vice's staff writer, remarking on the unusual pace of this game joining the PlayStation Plus rotation. Despite positive critic feedback highlighting aspects of fun and engagement, it’s clear there were challenges with connecting to long-standing fans.
Several factors contribute to this decision. Following its release, BioWare confirmed it would be downsizing due to the performance of Dragon Age: The Veilguard. The studio's general manager, Gary McKay, hinted the next Mass Effect game might not need full studio support. This time of transition not only highlights BioWare's shifts but captures the industry's competitive nature where sales and reception can dictate swift changes.
While PlayStation Plus subscribers can seize this opportunity to play Dragon Age: The Veilguard, they should also capitalize on access to other cherished titles. With deadlines looming for claiming February's additions, gamers must act before the end of March 3 to avoid missing out.
Overall, this month’s offerings reflect Sony's strategic adjustments and their commitment to drawing players back, especially with titles such as Sonic Colors: Ultimate and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Whether veteran fans or newcomers jump at the chance to explore these games, March 2025 promises excitement and nostalgia to maintain engagement within the PlayStation community.