PlayStation Plus Classics is finally getting a much-anticipated upgrade and I can’t wait
If you’ve been waiting to play retro classics on PlayStation Plus in Europe, we have good news. Sony has confirmed that it wants to roll out 60Hz NTSC options.
After previous criticism for using 50Hz PAL versions with retro games on PS4 and PS5, Sony issued a statement Twitter (opens in new tab) earlier today. “We plan to roll out NTSC options for most classic games offered on the PlayStation Plus Premium and Deluxe plan in the Asia, Europe, Middle East, India, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand regions.”
Unfortunately, Sony didn’t say when these options would come to PlayStation Plus, but it’s a big win for anyone looking to dive into these retro games. Thanks to the lower framerate, the European and Australian 50 Hz PAL versions are considered inferior to the North American and Japanese 60 Hz NTSC releases. By providing an increase in gameplay of 30 frames per second, it’s a smooth experience.
While this regional difference is no longer the issue it was before, the previous standard means it continues to be a problem again today, making the NTSC option a welcome one. It’s certainly a better solution than Sony’s previous approach, which saw the publisher create a ghostly effect of PAL games through frame blending.
get there slowly
Sony hasn’t confirmed why it went with PAL versions for these retro re-releases, but it’s speculated that this may be because they include multi-language support. However, despite Sony’s own choice, the Asian PS Plus relaunch last month confirmed that third-party publishers can freely choose. Mister Driller, Oddworld: Abe’s Odyssey, and Tekken 2 all used NTSC versions exclusively.
It hasn’t been a consistent approach and it’s worth highlighting how Sony only confirmed that the NTSC option will be available for “most classic games.” Naturally, this is great news for a wider line-up, but there will be a select few who won’t benefit from an upgrade to 60Hz.
Still, I’m impressed with Sony’s efforts otherwise, it’s clearly going the extra mile with these retro re-releases. Available individually and through PS Plus Premium, each includes some much-needed quality-of-life adjustments. Enhanced resolution, higher frame rates, optional trophy support, and even scene filters for PS1 games. Now, who’s ready for some app escape?