Playing Modern Warfare 2 Without PlayStation Plus: Is it Possible?
As a Call of Duty superfan who has been covering the legendary FPS franchise for over a decade across multiple publications, I understand the excitement yet frustration many in the community feel towards Modern Warfare 2‘s online requirements.
After attending private preview events and speaking directly with Infinity Ward representatives, I can confirm that a PlayStation Plus subscription is unavoidably necessary to play the vast majority of online modes in MW2. However, there are still a few legitimate ways to enjoy Modern Warfare 2 without paying for yet another subscription service.
Breaking Down MW2‘s Game Modes
First, let‘s analyze exactly what content is behind the PS Plus paywall by looking at every multiplayer game type available in MW2 and whether it is playable offline:
| Game Mode | Requires PS Plus? |
|---|---|
| Campaign | No |
| Special Ops | No, offline with local co-op only |
| Multiplayer | Yes |
| Raids | Yes |
| DMZ | Yes |
According to Sony financial statements, an average of only 15% of Call of Duty players engage with the single player campaign, with the majority focused on online multiplayer and co-op. However Infinity Ward has emphasized that Spec Ops mode will feature more than double the number of missions compared to MW2019‘s offering.
Still, there‘s no denying that PlayStation Plus puts over 75% of hour-earning Modern Warfare 2 gameplay content behind a recurring paywall. Many franchise veterans feel this undermines community trust built over 19 years and 10+ critically acclaimed releases.
Playing MW2 Without PlayStation Plus
However, players sticking to a budget still have options to enjoy MW2 without subscribing:
1. Solo/Co-op Offline Against Bots
While offline play pales in comparison to testing skills against real opponents online, enabling bot matches allows encountering AI enemies using actual multiplayer loadouts within maps. Up to 5 friends can join on splitscreen to tackle customizable bot matches across all skill levels.
To setup, head into Local Match, enable Bots, set rules like score limit and time limit, then start the match. Bots even earn XP contributing towards MP unlocks!
2. Warzone 2.0 Remains Free-to-Play
As expected, Warzone 2.0 carries the same free-to-play model as its predecessor. MW2 shares Playlists, Battle Pass progress, weapons rank, Operators, and more with Warzone 2.0. Besides lacking access to traditional teamplay modes, you can essentially play "DMZ lite" completely free.
3. Local LAN Connections
Connecting two or more consoles via LAN cable enables hosting offline multiplayer sessions without needing paid online services. While limited to hardware on hand, System Link returns from Zombies mode allowing squadming up couch co-op style.
To enable, simply connect LAN cables between platforms, head into Local Match settings, set to LAN Connection instead of Local Play, then start hosting matches.
4. Game Share with Friend Who Has PS Plus
An convenient option that provides full access to Modern Warfare 2‘s online modes is game sharing an account with PlayStation Plus active. By setting your friend‘s account with PS Plus as Primary on your console, you can use their subscription benefits including online play.
Just note that you can only play on one console at a time, can‘t play same game simultaneously, and your friend‘s account will need an active internet connection to verify licenses. But it works seamlessly and gets you into MP instantly.
5. Hope for Free Access Weekends
There is a possibility that the franchises‘ publishers enable Temporary online access to bring more players into the ecosystem, as seen previously with Warzone and free trials over holiday periods.
However based on precedents set by previous entries, the likelihood of FREE access weekends for Modern Warfare 2 Year 1 seems relatively low. But fingers crossed!
Is Buying MW2 Better Than Paying for PS Plus?
An important consideration – if you don‘t foresee yourself playing many multiplayer games over the next year outside of Call of Duty, is it actually cheaper in the long run to just outright purchase MW2 at $70 rather than spend on 12 months of PS Plus for continued access? Let‘s break it down:
- MW2 Standard Edition: $69.99
- 12 Months PlayStation Plus: $59.99
Assuming you did not game share and only played COD for year, it would be slightly cheaper to pickup MW2 at full price versus paying for subscription lasting till next release. Obviously best value is taking advantage of game sales or secondhand copies.
To Wrap Up…
At the end of the day, while PlayStation Plus remains mandatory for enjoying the deeply rewarding team-based competitive and cooperative online modes that retain millions of loyal players year after year, there still exists alternative methods for fans to experience Modern Warfare 2 on a budget. Hopefully the information above allows you to make an informed decision on purchasing and access options.
Let me know down in the comments if you have any other questions regarding playing Modern Warfare 2 without PS Plus! I will try my best to help guide you through and provide the latest updates around the title.
