As the gaming world eagerly awaits the release of the highly anticipated PlayStation 5, many are left wondering: can you play your favorite PS4 games on this next-gen console? In this blog post, we delve into all the details and answer that burning question once and for all. Get ready to level up your gaming experience with the PS5!
Can You Play PS4 Games on PS5?
The PS5 can play most of the 4,000 PS4 games. Some of these games run even better on the PS5, showing improved graphics. However, not all PS4 features work on the PS5, and a few games may have problems on the new console.
At first, 10 games couldn’t be played on the PS5, but by December 2020, this dropped to 8. Ubisoft said some of their games, like Assassin’s Creed Syndicate* and Star Trek Bridge Crew*, won’t work on the PS5. Others found issues with games like Batman: Return to Arkham, where there were sometimes strange graphics.
If you have PS Plus, your game saves can move from the PS4 to the PS5. This means you can pick up your games right where you left them. PS4 games can be played with a DualShock 4 on the PS5, but not PS5 games. The PS Move and PS VR Aim controllers will also work.
| Compatibility | PS4 Games on PS5 | Xbox One Games on Xbox Series X|S |
|---|---|---|
| Game Compatibility | The PS5 plays the vast majority of 4,000 PS4 games. | Almost all Xbox One games work on the Xbox Series X and S. But Kinect games don’t work. |
| Disc Playback | If you have the disc version of the PS5, you can use your PS4 game discs. But not with the digital-only PS5. | N/A |
| Digital Game Transfer | You can move digital games from your PS4 to your PS5 using a WiFi network. | N/A |
| Controller Compatibility | The PS5 works with the DualSense™ controller, as well as the older DUALSHOCK™4 and other gamepad types. | N/A |
| Release Date | The PS5 came out on November 12. But its availability varied by location and restocking by stores. | N/A |
In general, the PS5 is really good at playing older PS4 games. This means you can smoothly move your favourite games to the new console. But, remember there may be a few issues with some games.
How to Play PS4 Games on PS5?
Most of the 4,000+ PS4 games work on PS5. Some may run better on PS5, showing clearer images or smoother motion. However, a few may not work exactly as on the PS4, and some features could be missing. You might also see some games act differently than before.
PS4 Games Playable on PS5 Consoles
The big news is the vast majority of PS4 games can be played on PS5. This includes PS VR games, adding even more variety.
Game Boost for Improved Frame Rates
There’s also a boost for some games. This means they might run faster or smoother on PS5.
Potential Compatibility Issues
Even though most PS4 games work on the PS5, a few may have issues. Certain features from the PS4 might be missing on the PS5. Checking how your favourite games perform on your PS5 is a good idea.
| Compatibility | Details |
|---|---|
| PS4 Game Playability | The overwhelming majority of the 4,000+ PS4 games are playable on PS5 consoles. Only a very small number of PS4 games, such as Afro Samurai 2 Revenge of Kuma Volume One and Hitman Go: Definitive Edition, will not work on the PS5. |
| Game Boost Performance | The PS5 console’s Game Boost technology provides faster and smoother frame rates in some of the PS4 console’s greatest games. |
| Legacy Console Compatibility | PS1, PS2, and PS3 games do not work natively on the PS5. |
| PSVR Compatibility | PSVR 1 games work on the PS5 with the PlayStation Camera Adaptor. |
| Peripheral Compatibility | Many PS4 accessories, such as gold and platinum headsets, racing wheels, arcade sticks, and flight sticks, will work on the PS5. |
In short, most PS4 games and even PS VR games are good to go on the PS5. But a few might not be perfect, and checking before you play is wise. This way, you can ensure that your gaming experience is the best it can be.
How to Play PS4 Game Discs on PS5?
If you have a PS5 with a disc drive, playing your PS4 games is easy. Just put the PS4 game disc into your PS5. The game will work after a quick software update.
Inserting PS4 Discs into PS5
Inserting a PS4 disc into your PS5 is simple. Just put the disc in the drive. Your PS5 will let you open and play the game. Remember, keep the disc in if you want to continue playing.
This way, your Games home on PS5 will show the PS4 games you’ve played.
PS5 Digital Edition Limitations
The PS5 Digital Edition can’t use PS4 game discs because it has no disc slot. If you have the PS5 Digital Edition, you’ll need to buy games digitally or have PlayStation Plus. This lets you enjoy PS4 games on your console.
How to Transfer PS4 Games to PS5?
Do you want to keep playing your PS4 games on the new PS5? You have a few ways to move your games over. One way is using WiFi. Another way is by plugging in a USB drive into the PS5. This lets you play the games right from the USB if it’s a PS4 compatible drive.
WiFi Data Transfer
By using WiFi, you can easily move games and other stuff to your PS5. This is great because you don’t have to download everything again. It can take a long time, though, especially over WiFi.
USB Storage Transfer
Another method is with a USB drive. You can move games and settings this way. Also, you can attach an external drive that was connected to your PS4. But remember, you can’t move everything from that external drive to the new PS5. However, you can play games directly from the external drive on the PS5.
Cloud Storage Transfer
If you have PS Plus, you can move your saved games through the cloud. Or you can also use a USB drive to do this. It’s a fast way to get your saved games onto the PS5. PS Plus members can also download their cloud saves directly to the new console.
How to Install Digital PS4 Games on PS5?
If you’ve got digital PS4 games, playing them on your PS5 is easy. Just sign in with your PS4’s account on your PS5. Then, you can download and play your games on the PS5.
To get to your PS4 games on PS5, do this:
- Open the ‘Game Library’ on your PS5’s home screen.
- Find the PS4 game you want to play in the library.
- If you haven’t downloaded it, click ‘Download’ to start.
- For some games, you can play a bit while the rest downloads.
Most PS4 games, over 4,000, work on the PS5. But, some might not work perfectly.
Follow these steps to play your PS4 games on your new PS5. This lets you keep enjoying your old favourites on the new console.
How to Upgrade PS4 Games to PS5 Version?
If you have a PS4 game that’s compatible, you might be able to upgrade it to the digital PS5 version. The upgrade details can change based on each game.
Eligible Games for Upgrade
Many PS4 games allow for a free upgrade to the PS5 version. About 60 titles are confirmed to be free. Hundreds more can be upgraded for a lower cost. Actually, over 4,000 kinds of PS4 games can work on the PS5. Still, a few games might need a small fee for the PS5 upgrade, even if it’s less than usual.
Wondering if your PS4 game can get a free or cheap upgrade to the PS5? Check the PlayStation website or your game’s official site for the latest details.
Compatible Controllers and Accessories
If you’re thinking about using your old controllers with the PlayStation 5 (PS5), here’s what you need to know. The PS4’s controllers, like the DualSense™ and DUALSHOCK™4, can be used with some PS5 games. Also, third-party controllers that are officially licensed for PS4 work as well.
If you have special gear like racing wheels or flight sticks, don’t worry. They too are compatible for both PS5 and certain PS4 games. The PS Move Motion Controllers and the PlayStation VR Aim Controller will work with select PS VR games on the PS5.
DualSense and DualShock 4 Support
The DualSense and DUALSHOCK™4 controllers are good to go with the PS5 for certain PS4 games. This means you can keep using them for games on your new PS5.
Licensed Third-Party Controllers
Not just PlayStation’s own controllers, you can also play with third-party ones made for the PS4. They are confirmed to work with some PS4 games on the PS5. This opens up more choices for controlling your PS4 titles on the new console.
PlayStation VR Compatibility
Good news for VR fans: the PS Move and the VR Aim Controller are compatible with some PS VR games on the PS5. This means you can keep enjoying your virtual reality experiences.
Backwards Compatibility Limitations
PlayStation®5 can’t play PlayStation®3 discs. This means if you upgraded a PS3 game to PS4 but need the PS3 disc to play it on PS5, you can’t.
During PS4 games on PS5, the SHARE menu won’t work. You can still take pictures by pressing Create on your DualSense controller. But for some games, videos might not record in 4K.
PS3, PS2, and PS1 Game Support
Direct support for PS3, PS2, and PS1 games is not available on PS5. Yet, some are becoming available through the PS Plus Premium subscription.
Unsupported Features and Functionality
PS4 Second Screen and companion apps don’t work on PS5. Nor do Tournaments and In-Game Live features.
The HD Camera doesn’t work with PS VR on PS5; you need the PS Camera instead. HDR is always on for PS5, but you can turn it off if you prefer.
PS4 Games with Potential Errors on PS5
Most of the 4,000+ PS4 games work well on PS5. But, some might have issues or act oddly. A specific list of 102 PS4 games could have trouble running on PS5.
Games with Known Issues
Only 6 PS4 games cannot be played on PS5. Yet, 42 games have issues on the new console. These problems include bad resolution, locked frame rates, weird visuals, and even game crashes. Also, 4 games are still under review for possible PS5 problems.
Sometimes, you might need a game patch for full PS4-PS5 compatibility. Users have faced various issues when playing their PS4 games on PS5. For the best play, it’s advised to install PS4 games directly on the PS5’s SSD, not an external drive.
Conclusion
Before you buy any add-ons for your PS4 games on the PlayStation 5, try playing them directly on your PS5. This way, you can see if you like how they run. Most PS4 games work with the PS5, and some might even look better with the PS5 Game Boost. But a few older games might not run smoothly or could have issues.
The PS5 lets you play over 4,000 PS4 games from day one. And it gets even better. Many PS4 games can be upgraded to their PS5 versions for free. This makes moving to the PS5 easy and keeps your game progress.
Deciding to get a PlayStation 5 is all about what you enjoy in gaming. The strong backwards compatibility and free game upgrades are big reasons to think about it.By testing your PS4 games on the PS5, you’ll know if it’s the right choice for you. This can help you make the best decision about upgrading.
FAQ
Can I upgrade my PS4 games to the PS5 version?
Some games let you upgrade from PS4 to PS5. Head to the PlayStation site to check which games and learn how to upgrade.
What controllers and accessories can I use with my PS4 games on PS5?
Use the DualSense™, DUALSHOCK™4, or licensed third-party controllers with PS4 games on PS5. Also, certain accessories like racing wheels are fine. PS VR and its motion controllers work too.
Are there any backwards compatibility limitations with the PS5?
The PS5 doesn’t play PS3 discs. There’s a rare issue with some PS4 games’ video recording on PS5. The SHARE menu might not show on some PS4 games on the PS5.
Are there any PS4 games that don’t work on PS5?
Most PS4 games work on the PS5, but a few might have issues. So, check how your PS4 games play on your PS5 before buying add-ons.
