The release of the PlayStation 5 (PS5) in November 2020 brought a wave of excitement among gamers, promising enhanced graphics, faster load times, and next-gen exclusives. However, one of the burning questions that surfaced with the launch of the PS5 was, “Can you play PS4 games on PS5?” For gamers with an extensive library of PlayStation 4 (PS4) games, knowing whether they can continue enjoying their favorite titles on the PS5 is crucial. The good news is that the PS5 offers robust backward compatibility with PS4 games, but there are nuances to understand.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about playing PS4 games on the PS5, including how it works, the performance improvements, any limitations, and tips to maximize your gaming experience.
What is Backward Compatibility?
Before diving into the specifics, let’s define what backward compatibility means. Backward compatibility refers to the ability of a newer console to run games from its predecessor. In the case of the PS5, backward compatibility allows the console to play PS4 games without requiring a separate version or upgrade of the game.
Sony has made backward compatibility a key feature of the PS5, making it easier for gamers to transition from the PS4 to the PS5 without losing access to their game library. Let’s look at how this works in detail.
How Does PS4 Backward Compatibility Work on PS5?
Physical PS4 Discs
If you own physical copies of PS4 games, the process is quite straightforward. The PS5 (Standard Edition) comes with a disc drive, so you can insert your PS4 disc into the PS5. The console will recognize the game and allow you to play it. Keep in mind that the PS5 Digital Edition lacks a disc drive, so if you own physical PS4 games and want to play them on a PS5, you’ll need the Standard Edition.
After inserting the PS4 disc, the PS5 may prompt you to download a patch or update for the game, but other than that, you can start playing. Your progress and saved data from the PS4 version should carry over seamlessly, assuming you’re using the same PlayStation Network (PSN) account.
Digital PS4 Games
For those who have built a library of digital PS4 games, the process is even easier. Once you’ve signed into your PSN account on your PS5, you can access your entire digital library. Simply download any PS4 game you’ve previously purchased from the PlayStation Store onto your PS5 and start playing.
PS4 Game Saves and Data
One of the most important aspects of backward compatibility is whether your save data from PS4 games will transfer to the PS5. Thankfully, Sony has made it easy to transfer saves through either the cloud (if you’re a PlayStation Plus member) or a USB storage device.
- Cloud Saves: If you’re a PlayStation Plus member, your PS4 save files are likely stored in the cloud. When you start a PS4 game on the PS5, you can download your cloud saves and continue from where you left off.
- USB Storage: You can also transfer save files manually using a USB drive. On your PS4, copy the save data to the USB drive, and then transfer it to your PS5 by plugging in the USB drive and moving the files.
Not all PS4 games will support save transfers, though. Some games might require you to start fresh, but this is relatively rare.
Performance Enhancements on PS5
One of the major perks of playing PS4 games on PS5 is the performance boost. While the PS5 was designed for next-gen gaming, it also significantly enhances the experience of PS4 titles.
Faster Load Times
Thanks to the PS5’s ultra-fast SSD (Solid State Drive), loading times for PS4 games are drastically reduced. Games that used to take several minutes to load on the PS4 can load in just a few seconds on the PS5. This is particularly noticeable in open-world games like The Witcher 3 and Red Dead Redemption 2, where large environments took a while to load on the PS4.
Higher Frame Rates
Many PS4 games are “PS5-enhanced,” meaning that they benefit from the PS5’s more powerful hardware. Games that were locked at 30 frames per second (FPS) on the PS4 can now run at smoother 60 FPS on the PS5. This provides a more fluid gaming experience, especially in fast-paced titles like Ghost of Tsushima or The Last of Us Part II.
Improved Resolution
Some PS4 games also receive resolution improvements when played on the PS5. While not every game is automatically upscaled to 4K, many do benefit from higher resolutions. Games that supported dynamic scaling on the PS4, like God of War and Horizon Zero Dawn, will run at their highest possible resolution on the PS5.
PS4 Pro Enhancements
If a game was optimized for the PS4 Pro, the PS5 will typically apply those same enhancements, or even improve on them. This means higher resolution, better textures, and more stable performance compared to playing the same game on a base PS4 console.
Limitations and Exceptions
While the majority of PS4 games are compatible with the PS5, there are a few exceptions. As of now, Sony has confirmed that over 99% of PS4 titles are playable on the PS5, but there are a handful of games that aren’t supported. Some of these include:
- DWVR
- Shadwen
- Hitman Go: Definitive Edition
Sony maintains an updated list of unsupported PS4 games, though it’s important to note that this list is relatively small compared to the vast library of available titles.
PlayStation VR (PSVR) Games
For those who own a PSVR headset, the good news is that PSVR games are also backward compatible with the PS5. However, you will need to use a PS4 DualShock 4 controller to play them, as the PS5 DualSense controller is not supported for PSVR games. You’ll also need a PlayStation Camera and a camera adapter, which Sony offers for free to PSVR owners.
How to Maximize Your PS4 Gaming Experience on PS5
If you’re planning to play a lot of PS4 games on your PS5, here are a few tips to make the most out of the experience:
1. Use an External Hard Drive
While the PS5 has limited internal storage, you can use an external hard drive to store and play PS4 games. This saves space on your internal SSD for PS5 games, which require the faster load speeds for optimal performance. You can easily move PS4 games from the internal storage to the external hard drive when needed.
2. Take Advantage of PS5’s Game Boost
The PS5’s “Game Boost” feature automatically enhances the performance of many PS4 games. You don’t have to do anything to enable it – simply start a compatible PS4 game, and you’ll notice smoother frame rates and quicker load times.
3. Check for PS5 Upgrades
Some PS4 games offer free PS5 upgrades, allowing you to enjoy next-gen enhancements like 4K resolution, ray tracing, and improved textures. Games like Cyberpunk 2077, Spider-Man: Miles Morales, and Assassin’s Creed Valhalla offer such upgrades, so it’s worth checking if your favorite PS4 games have next-gen versions.
4. Use Your PS Plus Collection
If you’re a PlayStation Plus subscriber, you have access to the PS Plus Collection on the PS5. This collection includes some of the best PS4 games, like God of War, Uncharted 4, and Bloodborne, all of which are available to download and play at no additional cost.
Should You Keep Your PS4?
With the PS5’s extensive backward compatibility, you may be wondering whether it’s worth holding on to your PS4. While the PS5 can play most PS4 games, there are a few reasons you might want to keep your old console:
- PSVR Compatibility: As mentioned earlier, PSVR games require a PS4 DualShock controller, so if you’re heavily into VR gaming, it might be convenient to keep your PS4 around.
- Multiplayer Compatibility: If you have friends or family members who still use a PS4, keeping your PS4 can allow you to continue playing together without needing two PS5 consoles.
- Limited Storage: With the limited internal storage on the PS5, you might prefer to keep some PS4 games on your old console instead of transferring them all to the PS5.
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The PS5’s backward compatibility with PS4 games is a massive advantage for gamers transitioning to the new generation. With faster load times, better frame rates, and higher resolution, PS4 games are enhanced on the PS5, allowing you to enjoy your existing library while waiting for more next-gen exclusives. Whether you own physical discs or digital copies, the PS5 offers a seamless way to continue your gaming journey.
For most players, there’s no need to hold on to their PS4 once they’ve upgraded to a PS5. However, keeping your PS4 around for specific use cases like PSVR or multiplayer gaming can still be a valid option.
In the end, Sony’s commitment to backward compatibility ensures that your gaming legacy doesn’t end with the PS4—it continues, stronger than ever, on the PS5.