Do you need a subscription to play online? Rules by platform

Whether you need a subscription to play online depends on where you play and what you play. On PC and mobile, almost never. On PlayStation, Xbox and Nintendo Switch you usually need one for paid online multiplayer, but not for free-to-play games, single-player games or couch co-op.

Pick your platform and the kind of game below to get a clear answer, then see what a subscription adds beyond online play.