Can I Finish PS4 Trophies on PS5? A Comprehensive Guide
Absolutely! If you started chasing trophies on a PS4 game and then upgraded to a PS5, you can continue your trophy hunt. The PS5 is designed to be backward compatible, allowing you to play most of your PS4 games and pick up right where you left off. This means you can transfer your save data and keep unlocking those coveted digital accolades on your shiny new console.
However, there are a few nuances to understand, especially when dealing with different versions of the same game and how trophies are handled across generations. Let’s dive into the details and address some frequently asked questions.
Understanding Trophy Mechanics Across Generations
The key concept to grasp is that trophy lists are tied to the game version, not the console itself. If you’re playing the PS4 version of a game on your PS5, you’ll be unlocking trophies for the PS4 trophy list. If you then switch to the PS5 version of that same game (if one exists and you own it), you’ll be looking at a completely separate trophy list. This is why you might hear people talk about “stacking” trophies, meaning earning the same trophies twice across different versions of a game.
How to Transfer Save Data for Seamless Trophy Progression
The easiest way to continue your trophy journey on the PS5 is to transfer your PS4 save data. Here’s how you can do it:
- Using a USB Drive:
- On your PS4, go to Settings > Application Saved Data Management > Saved Data in System Storage > Copy to USB Storage Device.
- Select the game and save files you want to transfer.
- On your PS5, go to Settings > Saved Data and Game/App Settings > Saved Data (PS4) > USB Drive.
- Choose “Copy to Console Storage” to move your save data to your PS5.
- Using Network Transfer:
- Make sure both your PS4 and PS5 are connected to the same network.
- On your PS5, go to Settings > System > Data Transfer.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to transfer your data from the PS4.
- Using PlayStation Plus Cloud Storage (if you have a subscription):
- On your PS4, upload your save data to the PS Plus cloud storage (Settings > Application Saved Data Management > Saved Data in System Storage > Upload to Online Storage).
- On your PS5, download the save data from the cloud (Settings > Saved Data and Game/App Settings > Saved Data (PS4) > Cloud Storage > Download to Console Storage).
Once the save data is transferred, load up the PS4 version of the game on your PS5. Any trophies you haven’t earned yet should now be achievable. If a game has an upgrade path to a dedicated PS5 version, be aware that save transfers and trophy behavior can vary widely.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes, trophies might not sync immediately or appear to be missing. Here are a few troubleshooting steps:
- Restart your PS5: A simple restart can often resolve syncing issues.
- Sign out and back into your PSN account: This can refresh your profile and force a trophy sync.
- Check your internet connection: Ensure you have a stable internet connection for trophies to sync properly.
- Wait: Sometimes, there can be delays on Sony’s servers. Give it some time, and the trophies might appear later.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions regarding finishing PS4 trophies on PS5, along with detailed answers.
1. Do trophies carry over automatically from PS4 to PS5?
No, trophies don’t automatically “carry over.” However, if you play the PS4 version of a game on your PS5 using a transferred save file, you can continue earning trophies for the PS4 trophy list. If you then play the PS5 version of that game, the trophies have to be earned independently.
2. Can I “auto-pop” trophies on the PS5 version of a game if I earned them on the PS4 version?
It depends on the game. Some games allow you to transfer your save file from the PS4 version to the PS5 version, which may automatically unlock (or “auto-pop“) some or all of the trophies you earned on the PS4. However, this is not guaranteed and depends on the specific game’s implementation. Some games require you to replay certain sections or actions to unlock the trophies on the PS5 version, even if you have the save data. Check online game guides to understand if specific games have the “auto-pop” option.
3. Are PS4 and PS5 trophy lists separate?
Yes, PS4 and PS5 games have separate trophy lists. Even if it’s the same game, the PS4 and PS5 versions will have distinct trophy lists. This allows for “stacking” trophies, where you can earn the same trophies twice across different versions.
4. If I delete a game on my PS5, do I lose the trophies I earned?
No, deleting a game on your PS5 does not delete the trophies you earned. Trophies are tied to your PlayStation Network account, not the game files on your console. You can re-download the game and your trophies will still be there.
5. Can I use my PS4 account on my PS5?
Yes! Your PS4 account is your PlayStation Network account, and you can use it on your PS5. Your trophies, friends, PlayStation Plus subscription, and other account information will sync to your PS5.
6. Do PS4 games look better on PS5?
Some PS4 games may have an upgrade patch, allowing for improved visuals and gameplay on the PS5. Also, some PS4 games can benefit from the PS5’s boost mode, offering improved frame rates and resolution. However, most PS4 games will look similar on both consoles.
7. Why can’t I transfer my PS4 data to PS5?
If you’re having trouble transferring data, try these steps:
- Use a wired connection (Ethernet cable) instead of Wi-Fi for both consoles.
- Restart your router.
- Make sure both consoles are on the latest system software.
8. What happens to all my PS4 games when I get a PS5?
You can play your PS4 games on your PS5 in several ways:
- Digital games: You can download them from your PlayStation Network library.
- Physical games: You can insert the PS4 disc into the PS5 (except for the PS5 Digital Edition, which doesn’t have a disc drive).
- You can also transfer digital games and save data from your PS4 to your PS5 using WiFi data transfer or an external hard drive.
9. What should I do with my PS4 after getting a PS5?
You can use your PS4 as a secondary console for streaming games from your PS5 using Remote Play. It’s also useful for playing PS4 only games. Or you can sell it.
10. How long does it take to transfer PS4 data to PS5?
The time it takes to transfer PS4 data to PS5 depends on the amount of data and the connection method used. Using a wired connection is faster than using Wi-Fi. It can take anywhere from a few minutes to several hours.
11. Do I have to repurchase games for PS5?
You don’t have to repurchase PS4 games to play them on PS5. The PS5 is backward compatible with the vast majority of PS4 games. However, if there’s a dedicated PS5 version of a game, you may need to purchase it separately to take advantage of the PS5’s enhanced features.
12. Do trophies do anything on PS5?
Trophies contribute to your trophy level on your PlayStation Network profile. Earning more trophies, especially gold and platinum trophies, increases your trophy level. While trophies don’t unlock in-game content, they are a fun way to track your achievements and show off your gaming skills.
13. What happens if I delete a PS4 game on PS5?
If you delete a PS4 game on your PS5, you can re-download it from your PlayStation Network library at any time, as long as you own the digital version or have the physical disc.
14. Why do PS5 trophies not show on PS4?
PS5 trophies won’t show on the PS4, because the PS4 isn’t programmed to read them. Trophies are device and list specific.
15. Do PS5 players have an advantage over PS4 players?
Yes, in some games. PS5 players often have access to higher frame rates (e.g., 60 FPS) and better graphics than PS4 players, giving them a potential competitive advantage. This is particularly true in fast-paced action games.
Conclusion
Finishing your PS4 trophy collection on a PS5 is entirely possible and a great way to extend the life of your favorite games. By understanding the nuances of save data transfers, trophy lists, and potential compatibility issues, you can seamlessly transition to the new console and continue your quest for digital glory. Remember that the world of games is constantly evolving, and the Games Learning Society keeps a keen eye on these developments. You can visit GamesLearningSociety.org to explore deeper into how gaming contributes to learning and culture.