For years, PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium subscribers have enjoyed a treasure trove of games, with two of Rockstar's most beloved open-world titles standing out as crown jewels. Grand Theft Auto 5 and Red Dead Redemption 2 have offered countless hours of exploration, heists, and cowboy drama. But that era is about to end.
Both games are officially set to depart the PlayStation Plus catalog on November 17, 2026. The news comes just days before the highly anticipated release of Grand Theft Auto 6, making this a bittersweet moment for fans. While the timing might feel like a strategic move, it's a reminder that even the biggest titles don't stay forever on subscription services.
What's Leaving and When?
According to the latest PlayStation Plus update, the following games will be removed from the Extra and Premium tiers on November 17:
- Grand Theft Auto 5
- Red Dead Redemption 2
- The Talos Principle 2
- Cricket 24
- Rock of Ages 3: Make & Break
While the other departures are notable, the Rockstar titles are the heavy hitters. Red Dead Redemption 2, in particular, is a massive time investment—its story mode can take over 60 hours to complete, and that's without diving into the rich side activities that make the world feel alive.
Can You Keep Playing After They Leave?
If you've already downloaded the games, you might be wondering if you can keep playing them offline. Unfortunately, that's not how PlayStation Plus works. Once a game leaves the Extra or Premium catalog, you lose access to it unless you purchase a separate license. Your save files will remain intact, so if you decide to buy the game later, you can pick up right where you left off.
This creates a dilemma for players who have been procrastinating on finishing Arthur Morgan's journey or Trevor, Michael, and Franklin's chaotic adventures in Los Santos. Rushing through Red Dead Redemption 2 would mean missing out on the slow-burn storytelling and immersive details that make it one of the best western video games ever made. Similarly, GTA 5's sprawling narrative is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace.
Your Options Before the Deadline
If you're determined to finish either game before November 17, you have a few weeks to make it happen. But if that feels like a race against the clock, consider purchasing a copy. Both games are frequently discounted, and owning them means you can play at your own pace without worrying about subscription rotations. Your existing save data will carry over as long as you buy a compatible version from the same region.
For those who are new to these titles, this departure is a reminder to check the PlayStation Plus catalog regularly. Games come and go, and sometimes the ones you've been meaning to try vanish before you get the chance. If you've been eyeing GTA 5 or Red Dead Redemption 2, now is the time to act—either by diving in before the cutoff or grabbing a permanent copy.
As the gaming world gears up for GTA 6, saying goodbye to these classics on PlayStation Plus is a poignant moment. But with so many other great games available, including some instant classics that hook you in the first half hour, there's always something new to explore. Just make sure you don't leave your favorite cowboy behind.
