PlayStation just made 'award-winning' multiplayer games free to download and keep without PS Plus

PlayStation have just dropped another free-to-play game, and before you ask, no it doesn't require a PS Plus subscription.

There's already a decent bundle of free games available on PlayStation, including Call of Duty: Warzone, Apex Legends and The Finals - None of which require the pesky PS Plus subscription which range from £59-£119 per year.

This new game pads out their free collection even more, plus there's no need to rush to download as it's not a limited-time offer.

The perfect game to whip out when things get awkward at your dinner party... (Gary Yeowell via Getty)

So, what's the game in question? It's called Sportsfriends, a multiplayer game allowing up to 4 players and designed to be played with friends and family.

PlayStation Store says Sportsfriends compiles four "award-winning local multiplayer games for living rooms, parties, and even backyards".

Expect a retro-style fighting game, a pole vaulting game, and even a jousting contest bound to liven up any dull dinner date. It kind of sounds like the good old Eye Toy games (if you know, you know) from the days of PS2, but without the low-grade TV-cam. Eye Toy, I miss you.

You might need to update to the latest system software, but this game can be played on PS4 and PS5, and uses a standard controller. Although if you're feeling like showing off, it's also compatible with the PlayStation Move controller for an enhanced experience.

In short, if your dinner party is verging on unbearably awkward, or you've invited distant family round for a reunion, Sportsfriends is a great secret weapon to bring out in crisis.

Distract that unpredictable aunt from her glass of wine and get her to go jousting instead.

Of this new release, one Reddit user described the game as "the best ever party game for non-gamers" while another replied "Sportsfriends is a classic on my PS4. Absolutely pick it up for hilarious couch play, it’s a gr8 game".

High praise indeed.

PS Plus is great, but have you scrolled the rest of PlayStation's free games (John Howard via Getty)

No PlayStation? No problem. Sportsfriends has also been made available to download and keep via Stream.

Although you might not need it to secure Sportsfriends, PS Plus does offer loads of benefits to gamers if you do fancy upgrading your PlayStation experience.

With three membership plans, you can pick the one that's right for you and your gaming habits. First up is the Essential package. As it's name suggests, this package gets you the basics of PS Plus like new monthly games, online multiplayer access, exclusive discounts and more. It's great if you just want to dip your toe into PS Plus. The Essentials plan will cost you £59.99 for an annual subscription, £19.99 for 3 months or £6.99 for one month.

Want to take it up another level? The Extra plan is the one you want. Providing everything included in the Essentials plan, plus the full Game Catalogue with hundreds of games to explore. This plan comes in at £99.99 annually, £31.99 for 3 months or £10.99 for one month.

Then finally, it's the big boy. The Premium package give you full access to all the PS Plus benefits including game trials, cloud streaming and the Classics Catalogue — allowing you to play classic games like the 1993 Doom and the iconic The Last of Us.