On June 20, 2025, Rockstar Games made a bold move by temporarily removing the PlayStation Plus subscription requirement for Grand Theft Auto Online on PS4 and PS5 consoles. This change was introduced alongside the eagerly awaited Money Fronts update and will be in effect until July 1, 2025.
Traditionally, GTA Online has mandated players to have a PS Plus membership to participate in its multiplayer modes on PlayStation platforms. However, Rockstar’s latest policy allows gamers to dive into the expansive online universe without this subscription, albeit within a limited timeframe. It’s important to note that players must still purchase either Grand Theft Auto V or the standalone GTA Online, which are available for $19.79 and $9.99 respectively on the PlayStation Store.
Introducing the Money Fronts Update
The Money Fronts update adds a new layer of intrigue to GTA Online with features centered around money laundering and growing criminal empires. Central figures such as Mr. Faber and Raf De Angelis guide players through thrilling narratives involving high-stakes financial crime. Rockstar promotes this update as an opportunity to “conspire with the very powerful” in order to expand illegal operations. This includes strategies and passive income systems enabled through new establishments like the Hands On Car Wash, Higgins Helitours, and Smoke on the Water Prescription Cannabis. Players will be tasked with building and protecting these enterprises, all while managing the threat of police raids that increase with their “Heat” level.
The gamer community, particularly on platforms like Reddit and via gaming news sites such as Rockstar Intel, is buzzing over Rockstar’s strategic removal of the PS Plus barrier, interpreting it as an effort to enhance player engagement prior to the highly anticipated next chapter in the franchise, Grand Theft Auto 6, which is slated for a May 26, 2026 release.
What Lies Ahead?
To date, neither Sony nor Rockstar has confirmed if this PS Plus exemption will extend beyond its announced deadline of July 1. In the meantime, this temporary measure presents both seasoned and new players with an excellent chance to experience the latest GTA Online offerings without the usual subscription hurdles.
This initiative underscores the enduring appeal of Grand Theft Auto Online and reflects Rockstar’s commitment to remaining a strong contender in the competitive online gaming arena, even over a decade since GTA V originally launched.
Key Details:
- PS Plus Requirement Lifted: June 20 to July 1, 2025
- Affected Platforms: PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5
- Game Versions: GTA V ($19.79) or standalone GTA Online ($9.99) on PS Store
- Update Focus: Money laundering businesses, new story missions, and passive income mechanics
- Notable Characters: Mr. Faber, Raf De Angelis
- Next Major Release: GTA 6 on May 26, 2026