Recently, foreign media outlet PushSquare conducted a reader poll on the PS Plus Essential game lineup for October 2026 and discussed the appeal of three titles in their article. The author believes this month's lineup lacks works capable of attracting subscribers.
F1 25 is featured as the headline title. It is a solid racing simulation game with good quality, worth trying for F1 fans. However, lacking a major talking point, it feels out of place in October, a month typically associated with horror themes.
Hunt: Showdown 1896 is a multiplayer extraction shooter with nearly a decade of accumulated reputation. It features a uniquely oppressive and eerie atmosphere, but the high barrier to entry for the extraction shooter genre may deter some subscribers. It is best enjoyed with friends.
Earth Defense Force: World Brothers 2 is a voxel-style spin-off of the Earth Defense Force series. It retains the series' signature chaotic and lively combat, featuring a campaign mode where you battle hordes of alien invaders. This title isn't for everyone, but editors recommend giving it a try, especially for its enhanced fun factor in co-op multiplayer.
Poll results on the page show that among 166 satisfaction votes, 63% of respondents chose the most negative option. In another poll with 152 participants, 72% indicated they had no particular games they were looking forward to. The comments section also reflected mixed opinions: some felt the lineup was too niche, while others believed the subscription service was perfect for trying out titles they wouldn't normally purchase individually.