PS Plus Essential March 2026 Games Announced – Here’s the Full List

Sony has confirmed the PlayStation Plus monthly games lineup for March 2026, and there are four titles heading to the service next month.

The lineup includes:

• PGA Tour 2K25 (PS5)

• Monster Hunter Rise (PS5, PS4)

• Slime Rancher 2 (PS5)

• The Elder Scrolls Online Collection: Gold Road (PS5, PS4)

All four games will be available to add to your library from March 3 through April 6.

Image via PlayStation Blog

Key Highlights

PGA Tour 2K25

Leading the lineup is PGA Tour 2K25. The game originally launched in February 2025 for PS5, Xbox Series X and Series S, and PC. Now, just over a year later, it lands on PS Plus.

PGA Tour 2K25 builds on its predecessors with a strong focus on realism. The new EvoSwing system introduces more precise, physics-driven swing control. Players can fine-tune power, accuracy, and shot shape in ways that feel more grounded than before.

Visual improvements are also noticeable. Course rendering, ball physics, and player animations give the game a premium feel.

Modes include MyCAREER, quick play, online multiplayer for up to 20 players, Society events, and extensive customization options. It supports local play for up to four players and broad online competition.

The game performed well critically. It holds a score of 80 on Metacritic, and Steam users rated it “Very Positive,” often praising its customizable difficulty and satisfying progression loop. Some criticism focused on cosmetic microtransactions and occasional online requirements.

It was also nominated for Sports Game of the Year at the 2025 D.I.C.E. Awards.

A Nintendo Switch 2 version was released in February 2026 for $69.99, further expanding its reach.

Monster Hunter Rise

Next up is Monster Hunter Rise, a title that needs little introduction. Originally released on March 26, 2021, for Nintendo Switch, it later came to PC in January 2022 and to PlayStation and Xbox platforms in January 2023. The Sunbreak expansion followed in 2022 for Switch and PC, and in 2023 for other consoles.

Monster Hunter Rise is widely regarded as one of the most accessible entries in Capcom’s long-running franchise. The introduction of Wirebugs changed traversal and combat dramatically. Players can grapple across environments, launch aerial attacks, and unleash powerful Silkbind moves.

Wyvern Riding allows hunters to mount and temporarily control monsters during battles. Rideable Palamute companions add both mobility and combat support, alongside the returning Palico partners.

Critically, the game was highly acclaimed. It earned Metacritic scores of 88, and 96% of critics recommend it on OpenCritic. Many outlets described it as a “technical marvel” on Switch and praised its fluidity and monster design.

Some minor complaints mentioned occasional frame rate dips in busy fights, which were improved in later ports. Still, it remains a standout for both newcomers and veterans.

Slime Rancher 2

Slime Rancher 2 offers a very different vibe. Developed by Monomi Park, the sequel exited Early Access and launched its full 1.0 version in September 2025. The game places players back in the boots of Beatrix LeBeau as she explores Rainbow Island to expand her slime ranching operation.

This first-person life and farming simulator blends exploration with resource management. Players raise colorful slimes, feed them to produce valuable plorts, and invest profits into ranch upgrades.

The 1.0 update introduced a light overarching narrative, new characters, dynamic weather, and endgame content. Drones also return, helping automate tasks. While the story remains gentle and whimsical, the core loop of farming, selling, and expanding is as addictive as ever.

Reviews were generally positive. The game sits at 76 on Metacritic. Critics praised its charming art style, improved visuals, and relaxing atmosphere. Some felt the story lacked depth and that late-game grinding could become repetitive. Even so, it remains an easy recommendation for fans of cozy simulators.

The Elder Scrolls Online Collection: Gold Road

Finally, The Elder Scrolls Online Collection: Gold Road rounds out the month. This marks the eighth major chapter from ZeniMax Online Studios for ESO. The expansion takes players to the West Weald region, a location familiar to longtime fans from The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion.

The story centers on the return of a forgotten Daedric Prince, Ithelia, whose reappearance causes reality-bending chaos across Tamriel.

The Collection bundle grants access to all major Chapter zones and story arcs, making it a strong entry point for new players. However, the 2025 Content Pass is not included.

On the way out, February’s titles will leave the service soon. Members have until March 2 to add Undisputed, Subnautica: Below Zero, Ultros, and Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown to their libraries.

As a bonus, PlayStation Plus Essential and Extra members can claim a one-month trial of Discord Nitro, while Premium members receive three months.