by Jon Scarr
December is usually when we try to clear our backlogs, but PlayStation decided to throw a few new choices into the mix. PlayStation Plus Extra and PlayStation Plus Premium members get a new batch of games added to the PlayStation Plus catalog on December 16, with one game that has already arrived early. Whether you want a big story, something weird, or a family-friendly weekend game, this month spreads things out more than usual.
Big Adventures for Long Sessions
If you want something you can sink into over the holidays, December delivers a few games to keep your eyes on. Assassin’s Creed Mirage takes the franchise back to a tighter format and brings you through the streets of 9th century Baghdad. The game recently got new content with Valley of Memory, adding more story and a new region to explore.
Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty goes in a darker direction. It drops you into a fantasy take on the collapse of the Han Empire where demons rule battlefields and survival depends on sword skills and timing.
Something Creative to Build or Customize
If you enjoy games you can chill with, Planet Coaster 2 lets you build the amusement park you wish existed in real life. Managing rides, budgets, layouts, and what guests like can easily eat up a weekend.
Co-Op, Couch Play and Family Picks
My house already has its eye on Lego Horizon Adventures, because it spins a familiar world into a playful, brick-build take with co-op included.
On the younger end, Paw Patrol Grand Prix and Paw Patrol World cover racing and exploration for preschool audiences. These have been popular around here before, so I expect they will get some time again over the holidays.
A Lighter RPG with Personality
Cat Quest III lands this month too, offering pirate fantasy with sailing, treasure hunting, Pi-rat battles, and optional local co-op. Easy to pick up, colourful, and great for short sessions.
The “What Even Is This?” Pick
Skate Story joined early on December 8 and might be one of the oddest releases on the service. You skate through the Underworld as a fragile demon made of glass. It is a surreal mix of style, movement, and tone, one that will grab anyone who likes discovering something different on subscription services.
Retro Throwback for PlayStation Plus Premium Members
Premium subscribers also get Soulcalibur III, enhanced with new features like rewind and quick save. It brings back Chronicles of the Sword mode and arena battle options for those who want something classic.
A Bonus for Annual Memberships
There is also a holiday perk. From December 11 through January 12, anyone buying a 12-month PlayStation Plus membership will receive Sony Pictures Core credit. Titles mentioned include Venom The Last Dance, 28 Years Later, Karate Kid Legends, and Anaconda. It varies by region and tier, but it is worth noting if you planned to renew.
PlayStation Plus Game Catalog Holiday Picks and First Installs
December’s PlayStation Plus game offerings feels like one of those mixes where your mood decides what you download first. In my house, Lego Horizon Adventures is the one that keeps getting mentioned because it is something we can actually sit down and enjoy together. It has that playful “everyone can join in” vibe that works during the holidays.
On the flip side, I am eyeing Cat Quest III for my quiet time. It looks like a game I could pick away at late at night when the house finally settles. That is the fun part with this lineup. It gives you a couple of games for family nights, a few good solo picks, and something unusual like Skate Story to surprise you.
What about you? When you scroll through December’s catalog, which one are you downloading first?