PS Plus sticks it to Xbox Game Pass with critically-acclaimed new release

PlayStation Plus Extra subscribers are about to be treated to a brand new game that has been making waves with the critics.

Developed by the team behind Abzu and The Pathless, Sword of the Sea is a brand new adventure game with an August 19 release date.

While the game can be purchased individually, it will also be available as a day-one release for PlayStation Plus Extra subscribers in August.

Joining the likes of Marvel's Spider-Man Remastered and Mortal Kombat 1, Sword of the Sea is described as "an atmospheric surfing adventure" in which players attempt to restore a lost ocean.

"Carve your way forward on the ancient and powerful Hoversword, which moves like a snowboard, skateboard, and surfboard all in one," Sony explains.

"Build momentum to reach top speed and catch big air off the crests of giant waves. Pull off radical flips, spins, and grab tricks with ease as you shred halfpipes, ramps, and wall rides. It's the perfect balance of exhilarating action and fluid, meditative movement."

Ahead of its August 19 release date, PlayStation and PC game Sword of the Sea has received almost universal praise from critics.

It has received perfect scores from the likes of Eurogamer, DualShockers and PlayStation Lifestyle, each praising its stunning visuals and atmosphere.

It currently has an 89% score on Metacritic, making it one of this year's highest-rated games.

Needless to say, Xbox Game Pass will have its work cut out trying to best PS Plus Extra thanks to games like Sword of the Sea.

Microsoft is expected to announce the next wave of Xbox Game Pass titles in the coming days.

In addition to Sword of the Sea, Mortal Kombat 1 and Spider-Man, the August PS Plus Extra line-up includes Earth Defense Force 6, Atelier Ryza 3 Alchemist of the End & the Secret Key, Unicorn Overlord, Indika, Harold Halibut and Coral Island.

As for PS Plus Premium, the service will add survival horror classics Resident Evil 2 and Resident Evil 3 Nemesis on August 19.

Premium subscribers will also be able to check out 5-hours of gameplay from Death Stranding 2: On the Beach as part of the Game Trial scheme.