In July 2019, there was a last-minute change regarding the PS Plus games. The game “Pro Evolution Soccer 2019” for PS4 was removed and replaced by Detroit: Become Human. Konami clarifies: That was not our decision, but Sony’s. Apparently, Konami didn’t even know what was happening.
This is the situation: A few days ago, the free games for PS4 were announced. At least free for those who have a PS Plus subscription. They were:
- Pro Evolution Soccer 2019 (PES)
- and Horizon Chase Turbo
Sony changes offer after negative feedback
This is how it went down: The offer was overall viewed very critically by the players. After all, Pro Evolution Soccer 2019 is a sports game at the end of its lifecycle, the season is over, and the next installment is coming soon.
Sports games are niche. Those who like them buy them right at release. However, most players tend to try out a shooter or an action game when it’s free, rather than a soccer title.
On MeinMMO, readers commented:
- Ace FFM: “I really messed up again. Maybe next month.”
- Vallo: “This only supports the summer slump. I don’t care about soccer, and I don’t know the other one.”
- Seth Eastwood: “Sports games that come out every year shouldn’t be included in PS+ subscriptions. They are simply worthless.”
Here was the change: When the offer actually went live, Sony replaced the sports game with “Detroit: Become Human”.
Detroit: Become Human is a highly acclaimed action-adventure.
Konami: We knew nothing
This is how Konami reacts: According to GameSpot, Konami states, “This decision was made by Sony. So please also ask Sony.”
The Brand Manager for PES in Europe mentioned that the decision surprised Konami itself. It was not planned.
The Brand Manager only learned about it when she opened her laptop in the morning. “I honestly can’t explain it,” she tells GameSpot.
This is what Sony says: Sony states: “We decided to change the lineup for PS Plus this month. We will offer Detroit: Become Human Digital Deluxe Edition instead of PES 2019. This decision was made as a company and we apologize for any inconvenience.”
What’s behind it: No one says it, but evidently the reaction to PES in PS Plus was so negative that Sony turned the plans upside down at the last minute.
Konami doesn’t seem to take this very well, but all parties seem to be biting their tongues.
