How Does PS4 to PS5 Upgrade Work? A Comprehensive Guide

So, you’re ready to leap into the next generation of gaming with a brand-spanking new PlayStation 5! Exciting times, indeed. But what about all those fantastic games you’ve amassed on your trusty PS4? Fear not, upgrading your PS4 games to the PS5 is a relatively straightforward process, although the specifics depend on whether you own the game digitally or on disc. Let’s break it down:

The PS4 to PS5 upgrade process essentially involves obtaining the PS5 version of a game you already own on PS4, typically at a reduced cost or even for free, depending on the publisher’s policy. This usually entails downloading a separate PS5 version of the game, although the method varies depending on whether you have a digital or physical copy of the PS4 game. Your save data can usually be transferred so you don’t have to start all over again, and you’ll generally see noticeable improvements in graphics, performance, and loading times.

The Digital Upgrade Path

If you purchased your PS4 game digitally through the PlayStation Store, the upgrade process is generally smoother:

1. Sign In: Ensure you are signed into your existing PlayStation Network account on your PS5 console – the same account you used on your PS4.
2. Find the Game: Locate the PS5 version of the game in the PlayStation Store. You can search for it directly or navigate through the game’s hub.
3. Upgrade Offer: On the game hub, you should find an upgrade offer. This will clearly state the cost (if any) to upgrade to the PS5 version. Some publishers offer free upgrades, while others charge a fee.
4. Review and Download: Review the upgrade offer details and, if you’re happy to proceed, select the option to purchase or download the PS5 version. The download will begin automatically.
5. Enjoy the Enhanced Experience: Once the download is complete, you can launch the PS5 version and enjoy the improved graphics, faster loading times, and other enhancements.

The Disc-Based Upgrade Path

Upgrading from a PS4 game disc to a PS5 version requires a slightly different approach, but it’s still manageable:

1. Insert the PS4 Disc: Insert the PS4 game disc into your PS5 console.
2. Find the Game: Navigate to the game hub for the PS5 version of the game in the PlayStation Store.
3. Upgrade Offer: As with digital upgrades, look for the upgrade offer on the game hub.
4. Purchase and Download: Purchase the upgrade if there’s a fee. The PS5 will then download the PS5 version of the game.
5. Keep the Disc: Crucially, you’ll need to keep the PS4 disc inserted in your PS5 console whenever you want to play the PS5 version. The disc acts as a license key, verifying that you own the game. If you lose the PS4 disc, you’ll lose access to the PS5 version.

Transferring Your Save Data

No one wants to lose hours of progress! Thankfully, transferring your save data from PS4 to PS5 is usually possible:

• Using PlayStation Plus Cloud Storage: If you have a PlayStation Plus subscription, your save data may already be backed up to the cloud. On your PS5, simply download the save data from the cloud.
• Using a USB Drive: You can copy your save data from your PS4 to a USB drive and then transfer it to your PS5. This is a reliable option, especially if you don’t have PlayStation Plus.
• Direct Wi-Fi Transfer: During the initial setup of your PS5, you can choose to transfer data directly from your PS4 over your home network. This method transfers everything, including save data, games, and settings. If you’re interested in the science behind gaming and learning, check out the Games Learning Society and their website: GamesLearningSociety.org.

Understanding Game Boost

Even if a game doesn’t have a dedicated PS5 upgrade, many PS4 games benefit from Game Boost on the PS5. This feature automatically improves the performance of compatible PS4 games, often resulting in higher frame rates and smoother gameplay. You don’t need to do anything to enable Game Boost – it’s applied automatically.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is upgrading from PS4 to PS5 always free?

No, it’s not always free. The decision to offer a free upgrade rests with the game’s publisher. Some publishers provide free upgrades, while others charge a fee for the PS5 version. It’s essential to check the upgrade offer in the PlayStation Store for each specific game.

2. What happens if I upgrade a PS4 game that’s also available on PS5 natively?

If a game is available as a standalone PS5 title, the upgrade will essentially give you the same experience as buying the PS5 version outright. The key difference is that you may be able to get the PS5 version at a discounted price through the upgrade program.

3. Can I play my upgraded PS5 game on my PS4 if I decide to go back?

No, you cannot. The upgraded PS5 version is designed specifically for the PS5 hardware and won’t work on a PS4. If you want to play the game on your PS4, you’ll need to play the original PS4 version.

4. Do I need a PlayStation Plus subscription to upgrade my games?

A PlayStation Plus subscription is not required for the actual upgrade process itself. However, it is often needed for transferring save data via cloud storage. A subscription is not needed to transfer save data via USB drive.

5. Will my PS4 trophies transfer to the PS5 version of the game?

Yes, your trophies will generally transfer. Since you’re using the same PlayStation Network account, your trophy progress is linked to your account and will be reflected in the PS5 version of the game.

6. What happens if I sell my PS4 game disc after upgrading to the PS5 version?

If you upgrade from a PS4 disc, you must have the PS4 disc inserted in the PS5 to play the PS5 version. Selling or losing your disc effectively revokes your license to play the upgraded PS5 version.

7. How much storage space will the PS5 upgrade take?

The storage space required will vary depending on the game. PS5 games are generally larger than their PS4 counterparts due to enhanced graphics and textures. Check the download size in the PlayStation Store before starting the upgrade.

8. Can I upgrade a used PS4 game to the PS5 version?

Yes, you can upgrade a used PS4 game, provided the game is eligible for an upgrade and you have the disc. The upgrade process doesn’t discriminate based on whether the disc is new or used.

9. Will all PS4 games eventually get a PS5 upgrade?

No, not all PS4 games will receive a PS5 upgrade. It’s up to the game’s publisher to decide whether to offer an upgrade. Many older or less popular games may not receive an upgrade.

10. How can I tell if a PS4 game is eligible for a PS5 upgrade?

The easiest way to check is to find the PS5 version of the game in the PlayStation Store. If an upgrade offer is available, it will be displayed on the game hub.

11. What is the difference between playing a PS4 game on PS5 and playing the upgraded PS5 version?

Playing a PS4 game on PS5 benefits from Game Boost, which improves performance. However, the upgraded PS5 version is specifically optimized for the PS5 hardware, offering even better graphics, faster loading times, and sometimes additional features.

12. Can I play the PS4 version of a game on my PS5 even if I upgrade to the PS5 version?

Yes, you can. Both versions will exist on your console if you choose to download the upgrade. This allows you to choose which version you want to play.

13. Is it worth upgrading from PS4 to PS5 for someone who primarily plays indie games?

Whether it’s “worth it” depends on the specific indie games and your personal preferences. Some indie games benefit significantly from the PS5’s faster loading times and smoother performance, while others may not show a dramatic difference.

14. Can I transfer my save data from the PS4 version of a game to the PS5 version if I’ve already started playing the PS5 version?

Yes, you can transfer your save data even after you’ve started playing the PS5 version. The PS5 will usually prompt you to overwrite your existing save data with the transferred data.

15. How long will Sony continue to support PS4 games?

Sony has stated that it plans to continue supporting the PlayStation 4 until at least 2025. This means that new games will still be released for the PS4, and existing PS4 games will continue to be supported.

Upgrading from PS4 to PS5 is a fantastic way to experience your favorite games in a whole new light. With improved graphics, faster loading times, and other enhancements, the PS5 offers a truly next-generation gaming experience. Take the plunge and see the difference for yourself!