Do you need Xbox Live Gold or PS Plus to play Modern Warfare 2? That's a question on the minds of several players preparing to drop into Infinity Ward's latest offering. The sequel to 2019's Modern Warfare comes with a brand-new multiplayer experience packed with innovation and the fast-paced gameplay synonymous with the franchise.
During the beta weekends, console players didn't need to subscribe to a service in order to enjoy a small slice of the final multiplayer build and as the release date nears, there's always a chance of changes to both services enabling players to enjoy online multiplayer without having to pay anything.
Elsewhere in the Call of Duty world, check out our guides highlighting the best Modern Warfare 2 loadouts to use and all of the Modern Warfare 2 maps available to play across a wide range of game modes.
Do you need Xbox Live Gold to play Modern Warfare 2?
Unlike Warzone, Modern Warfare 2 isn't a free-to-play game meaning you will need an Xbox Live Gold subscription in order to play online. However, if you're not interested in playing online, you can still access the campaign and local modes. You can also play split screen if you still want to drop into the action with friends.
Do you need PS Plus to play Modern Warfare 2?
Although PlayStation users didn't need a subscription in order to experience the Modern Warfare 2 beta, players will need a PlayStation Plus subscription to play online. In addition to multiplayer, you'll require a subscription if you want to play the revamped Special Ops mode that features three intense co-op missions along with a wealth of intel to collect.
Want to drop into some online action? Monthly and annual subscriptions at any tier are available to purchase through the PlayStation Store or another retailer. If you want access to multiplayer, we recommend grabbing a subscription to the Essential tier. It's the cheapest way to jump into multiplayer but if you want more benefits, take a look at Extra and Premium tiers to see what takes your fancy.
Modern Warfare 2 free access weekend
Throughout the Vanguard cycle, Activision opened multiplayer for all players and there's a chance the publisher does the same so players that haven't bought the game can see if they want to part ways with their hard-earned cash.
Information on a Modern Warfare 2 free access weekend hasn't appeared yet but we can assume players won't need a PS Plus or Xbox Live Gold subscription to participate.
That's everything there is to know about needing a PS Plus or Xbox Live Gold subscription to play Modern Warfare 2. For more, check out our guides showcasing the best Modern Warfare 2 guns and the latest intel on upcoming Modern Warfare 2 double XP events.