Discover hidden gems in May’s PlayStation Plus games

It’s that time of the month again! What? The time when people loudly applaud the selection of great games they’re given as part of their PlayStation Plus subscriptions? The time when everybody gathers around a campfire, singing songs of mild worship directed at Sony and the instant games collection? Nope, it’s the time of the month where people moan and whine about getting those damned indie games.

Gamers, I think, were spoiled by PlayStation Plus in its early days – where it offered up barely year-old AAA retail games. Since then, a month or two aside, it’s ben indie fare. For the most part, I’m okay with that – as it afford me the opportunity to play games I’d likely have never bought, discovering some genuine gems in the process. This month’s games are a lot like that. Weird, quirky indie titles that you’d probably never buy, but that you’ll likely end up loving.

Here are May’s PlayStation Plus games:

Ether One (PS4)

“First up this month on PS4 is yet another day one title for PS Plus. I’m extremely excited to present the mind-twisting adventure Ether One from the extremely talented team at White Paper Games.

There are two ways to approach Ether One. At its core is a story exploration path free from puzzles where you can unfold the game’s mysterious story at your own pace. But you can also take a deeper, more adventurous approach in which you’ll have to tackle complex puzzles. The choice is up to you.”

It’s a game I’ve not played, but it looks pretty good, and I could do with a puzzle game.

Hohokum (PS4, PS3 and PS Vita)

“Finally this month make sure you pick up Hohokum. Take on the role of a curious flying kite-like being. Along your travels through the vibrant world, you’ll uncover secrets by interacting with elements around you in different ways. At its heart, Hohokum is a playground — a place to wander about and get lost in. Expect a mesmerising, expressive creation that’s unlike anything you’ve ever played before.”

This is a strange one. It’s a game that I’d never have played had I not reviewed it, but it’s one I’m glad I did. While it does lose its charm after a while, the first few hours are a strange, hypnotic, mesmerising experience.

Guacamelee! Super Turbo Championship Edition (PS4)

“Next up, a supersized version of one our favourite PS3 and PS Vita titles. Guacamelee! More than just a port, the Super Turbo Championship Edition of Guacamelee! includes all the DLC and a whole chunk of brand new content, so even if you have previously played this on PS3 there’s plenty here to tempt you back in!”

It’s Guacamelee! With more stuff! Nothing wrong with more content for one of the finest action platforming games.

The Unfinished Swan (PS4, PS3 and PS Vita)

“Enter the surreal world of The Unfinished Swan and explore a mysterious, hidden kingdom. Your journey will be led by a runaway swan who guides you through strange levels filled with bizarre creatures. Each level offers new twists, challenges and puzzles, until you eventually come face-to-face with the eccentric king that built this realm.”

Here’s a game I’ve actually been waiting to hit the IGC. It’s a strange, decidedly abstract, mostly monochromatic game that has you filling in empty 3D space by chucking blobs of paint.

Race the Sun (PS4, PS3 and PS Vita)

“Next up, a title that will really test your gaming skills where speed is a vital element in your survival. In Race the Sun you play as a solar-powered craft that slows down in the shadows. Look out for speed boosts to help you complete objectives and unlock helpful power-ups.”

This is for me, probably the weakest of the bunch: a procedurally generated game that has you doing its namesake. It seems pretty dull – but could end p being one of those hidden gems.

Murasaki Baby (PS Vita)

“We’ve something truly unique for PS Vita owners this month. The stunning debut from Ovosonico tells the story of a little girl who wakes up in a weird world, populated by children’s fantasies and fears. Holding a purple, heart-shaped balloon in her hand, she feels lost, homesick and vulnerable. She wants her mommy…”

Yes, it’s another strange and beautiful indie game, but it’s one that offered a compelling emotive experience, according to Umar, who gave the game a staggering 9 in his review.

To recap, here’s what’s coming to PlayStation Plus in May:

• 6th May: Ether One (PS4)
• 6th May: Guacamelee! Super Turbo Championship Edition
• 6th May: The Unfinished Swan (PS4, PS3, PS Vita)
• 6th May: Race the Sun (PS4, PS3, PS Vita)
• 6th May: Murasaki Baby (PS Vita)
• 6th May: Hohokum (PS4, PS3, PS Vita)

Last Updated: April 30, 2015