Do I Have to Rebuy Digital Games for PS5? A Comprehensive Guide
The short answer is no, you generally don’t have to rebuy your digital games for the PS5. The PlayStation 5 boasts impressive backwards compatibility with the vast majority of PS4 games. This means that if you purchased a digital PS4 game through the PlayStation Store, you should be able to download and play it on your PS5 without additional cost. However, the details can be more nuanced, so let’s delve into the specifics and explore potential exceptions.
Understanding Backwards Compatibility and Upgrades
The PS5 was designed with backwards compatibility in mind, allowing players to transition smoothly from their PS4 libraries. This is a significant win for gamers, saving them money and allowing them to revisit beloved titles on newer hardware.
Digital PS4 Games on PS5
The process of playing your digital PS4 games on the PS5 is usually straightforward:
- Same Account: Ensure you’re logged into the same PlayStation Network account you used to purchase the games on your PS4.
- Download from Library: Navigate to your Game Library on the PS5. You should see your previously purchased PS4 games available for download.
- Download and Play: Select the game you want to play and initiate the download. Once downloaded, you can launch and play the game as usual.
PS4 Game Upgrades to PS5 Versions
While many PS4 games are playable on the PS5 as is, some developers offer free or paid upgrades to a dedicated PS5 version. These upgraded versions often include:
- Enhanced Graphics: Improved resolution, textures, and visual effects taking advantage of the PS5’s superior hardware.
- Faster Load Times: The PS5’s SSD significantly reduces load times, making for a smoother gaming experience.
- Improved Performance: Higher frame rates and more stable performance.
- PS5 Specific Features: Utilizing the DualSense controller’s haptic feedback and adaptive triggers.
Upgrade Availability and Cost: The availability and cost of PS4 to PS5 upgrades vary from game to game. Some developers offer free upgrades as a gesture of goodwill, while others charge a fee. Check the PlayStation Store for the specific game you are interested in to see what upgrade options are available. In some cases, upgrading future first-party games will come at a price of a $10 digital upgrade option from PS4 to PS5.
Navigating the Digital Landscape
Understanding the digital ecosystem is crucial for maximizing your gaming experience on the PS5.
Cross-Gen Titles: Buy Once, Play on Both
Some games are released as cross-gen titles, meaning they are available for both PS4 and PS5. In some cases, purchasing a digital copy of a cross-gen title on one console grants you access to the digital version on the other, within the same PlayStation account. This is a great way to future-proof your game library.
PlayStation Plus and Digital Games
A PlayStation Plus subscription offers additional value in the digital realm. Subscribers often receive free monthly games that can be downloaded and played as long as the subscription remains active. These free games are tied to your account and can be accessed on both PS4 and PS5. PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium tiers also offer access to a large library of downloadable PS4 and PS5 titles.
Considerations for the PS5 Digital Edition
If you own a PS5 Digital Edition (the version without a disc drive), your game library will entirely consist of digital purchases. Therefore, the above principles of backwards compatibility and upgrades apply.
The Benefits of the Standard PS5
The standard PS5, with its Blu-ray disc drive, offers greater flexibility. You can play both physical and digital games, providing more options for purchasing and trading games. You can still download games from the PS Store.
Optimizing Storage on Your PS5
Digital games can take up significant storage space. The PS5 has a limited internal SSD, so managing your storage is essential.
External Storage Options
You can use an external hard drive to store and play PS4 games on your PS5. This frees up space on your internal SSD for PS5 games, which benefit more from the faster storage. Keep in mind, you can store PS5 games on an external drive but you can not play the games.
Deleting and Re-Downloading
You can delete games you are not actively playing and re-download them later from your Game Library. There is no limit to how many times a game can be downloaded.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the nuances of playing digital games on the PS5:
1. Can I play digital PS4 games on my PS5?
Yes, the PS5 is backwards compatible with most digital PS4 games. As long as you are using the same PlayStation Network account you used to purchase the games, you should be able to download and play them on your PS5.
2. Do I need to repurchase PS4 games if I upgrade to a PS5?
No, you don’t need to repurchase your digital PS4 games to play them on the PS5. They should be available for download in your Game Library.
3. How do I download my digital PS4 games on my PS5?
Go to your Game Library on your PS5, locate the PS4 game you want to play, and select Download.
4. What if I have the PS4 disc version of a game? Can I upgrade to the digital PS5 version for free?
Not necessarily. Whether you can upgrade from a PS4 disc to a digital PS5 version (free or paid) depends on the specific game and the developer’s upgrade policy. Check the PlayStation Store for upgrade options. A PS4 disc does not give you the digital version.
5. Can I transfer my game saves from PS4 to PS5?
Yes, you can transfer game saves via cloud storage (PlayStation Plus required), USB drive, or local network transfer.
6. Will PS4 games look better on PS5?
Potentially. Some PS4 games receive performance boosts or visual enhancements when played on the PS5. Additionally, some games offer dedicated PS5 versions with improved graphics and features.
7. How much storage space do I need for digital games on my PS5?
This depends on the number and size of your games. Many modern games require between 40-60 GB of storage.
8. Can I use an external hard drive for PS4 games on PS5?
Yes, you can use an external hard drive to store and play PS4 games on your PS5.
9. Do I need PlayStation Plus to play my downloaded games on PS5?
No, you don’t need PlayStation Plus to play single-player or offline games that you have already downloaded. However, you typically need PlayStation Plus to play online multiplayer games.
10. Can I play my digital games on another PS5 console?
Yes, you can download and play your games on another PS5 console as long as you log in with the same PlayStation Network account. However, only one console can be actively using the account’s games at a time unless you use the game share feature.
11. What is PS5 game share?
PS5 game share is a feature that allows you to share your digital games with friends and family so they can play them on their PS5 as if they own them.
12. Can I play digital PS5 games on the PS5 disc version?
Yes, both the disc version and the digital edition of the PS5 are both capable of accessing the PS Store and playing digital games.
13. What is the difference between the PS5 and the PS5 Digital Edition?
The PS5 includes a Blu-ray disc drive, allowing you to play both physical and digital games. The PS5 Digital Edition does not have a disc drive and only supports digital game downloads.
14. Is it worth getting the PS5 disc or digital?
The choice depends on your preferences. The PS5 is more flexible and offers more control over where you can buy them and how you play them. The PS5 Digital Edition is cheaper upfront but limits you to digital purchases.
15. Can I redownload purchased games on PS5?
Yes. On PlayStation App select Game Library > Purchased. Select the game you want to download from your purchased list and select Download. Select which linked PS5 console or PS4 console you would like to download to. There is no limit to the number of times a game can be downloaded.
Conclusion
Upgrading to the PS5 doesn’t mean abandoning your existing digital game library. With its backwards compatibility features, you can enjoy your favorite PS4 titles on the new console, often with enhanced performance and visuals. Understanding the upgrade options and managing your storage will ensure a seamless and enjoyable gaming experience.
For further insights into gaming and learning, explore the resources available at the Games Learning Society. You can find more information at GamesLearningSociety.org.