Can I Play GTA 5 on PS5 with Someone on PS4?
The short, direct answer is: no, you cannot directly play GTA 5 Online with someone on a PS4 if you are playing on a PS5. This is because GTA Online does not support cross-generation play between the PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 consoles. While both consoles can play a version of GTA 5, the online modes are segregated. This limitation stems from how Rockstar Games has structured the online infrastructure and the lack of cross-play implementation for this specific title. Let’s delve deeper into why this is the case and what it means for you and your friends trying to connect.
Why Can’t PS4 and PS5 Players Connect in GTA Online?
The fundamental reason behind this incompatibility is the absence of cross-gen play in GTA Online. When Rockstar released the Enhanced Edition of GTA 5 for PS5 and Xbox Series X|S, they essentially created separate online ecosystems. The PS5 version of GTA Online is a distinct game from the PS4 version, featuring visual upgrades and performance enhancements that are not found on the older console.
The Technical Hurdles
While the game itself may look similar on the surface, the under-the-hood differences in the PS5 version are significant. The enhanced graphics, faster loading times, and utilization of the PS5’s adaptive triggers and haptic feedback mean that the PS5 edition is not just a simple port of the PS4 game. This difference in performance and functionality makes seamless cross-play between the two generations technically challenging.
Rockstar’s Stance on Cross-Play
Furthermore, Rockstar Games has not shown a strong inclination towards implementing cross-play features in GTA Online. This is partially a business decision. With GTA 5 still enjoying massive popularity on its own respective platforms, Rockstar might not see the business justification for investing the time and resources required to balance the game for cross-play between all platforms, which includes not just different PlayStation generations, but also Xbox and PC.
Understanding the Versions of GTA 5
It’s essential to understand that there are distinct versions of the game that run on the different consoles. When you purchase GTA 5 for the PS5, you are getting an enhanced edition optimized for the newer hardware. This version is separate from the PS4 version, which is designed for the older hardware. Therefore, you must have the correct version to play online with your friends. If you want to play with PS4 friends you would also need to play the PS4 version on your PS5. However you won’t get the graphical and performance enhancements of the PS5 version.
Upgrading from PS4 to PS5
If you originally played GTA 5 on PS4 and have now moved to a PS5, you have two choices:
- Continue playing the PS4 version on your PS5. You will then be able to play with your friends who are using PS4 consoles. However, you won’t benefit from the PS5-exclusive features.
- Upgrade to the PS5 version of the game. You will then need to have friends who are also playing the PS5 version to play online with them.
What About GTA 6?
With GTA 6 expected to release in 2024 or 2025, the community is hopeful about the implementation of cross-play. So far however, there has been no official confirmation of cross-play functionality for the new title. While some rumors suggest it could adopt a live-service model similar to Fortnite, incorporating seasons and live events into its online mode, there is no specific guarantee of cross-platform play either. It’s important to note that this would be a major investment for Rockstar, which they may still opt not to do as GTA Online is already successful without it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions to provide you with further clarity on playing GTA 5 online with friends across different consoles.
1. Is GTA 5 cross-platform?
No, GTA 5 is not cross-platform. This means you can only play with others on the same platform, such as PlayStation, Xbox, or PC. For example, a PC player cannot play with someone using a PlayStation or Xbox.
2. Can I play GTA Online on PS5 with PS4 friends?
Unfortunately, no, you cannot directly play GTA Online with your PS4 friends if you are using the PS5 version. You would need to be playing the PS4 version on your PS5 to connect with PS4 players, which means you will not have the PS5 benefits.
3. Why is there no cross-play between PS4 and PS5 for GTA Online?
The lack of cross-play is due to the fundamental differences between the PS4 and PS5 versions of the game and Rockstar’s approach to separate online ecosystems. The PS5 version has enhancements that are not present on the PS4 and so would require significant balancing.
4. Can I transfer my GTA Online progress from PS4 to PS5?
Yes, you can transfer your GTA Online character and progress from the PS4 to the PS5 version. However, this is a one-time transfer. Once you’ve transferred your character to the PS5 version, you can’t return to the PS4 online ecosystem with that character.
5. If I buy GTA 5 for PS5, do I get the PS4 version too?
No, buying the PS5 version does not automatically give you access to the PS4 version. They are considered separate games and need to be purchased separately. You can however access the PS4 version via backwards compatibility on your PS5 if you own the PS4 disc or digital license.
6. Does the PS5 version of GTA 5 have any advantages?
Yes, the PS5 version of GTA 5 has several advantages, including improved graphics, faster loading times, haptic feedback, and adaptive trigger support on the DualSense controller.
7. What if my friend buys GTA 5 on a different platform, such as Xbox?
If your friend is playing on Xbox, you will not be able to play GTA Online together, as the game is not cross-platform. You and your friends must use the same console family to play together.
8. Will GTA 6 have cross-play?
There is no official confirmation about cross-play for GTA 6. While some sources suggest the game might have an online mode with seasons and live events, there is no guarantee of cross-platform play. It’s something many fans are hopeful for.
9. Is GTA Online a separate game from GTA 5?
GTA Online is considered a separate game mode from the single-player campaign, but you cannot purchase it on its own. You must purchase the full game which includes both GTA 5 and GTA Online.
10. How much will GTA 6 cost?
While the price is not official, based on previous AAA titles, GTA 6 will likely have a starting price of at least $69.99. Deluxe and collector editions may be sold at a higher price.
11. What is the difference between GTA 5 and GTA Online?
The GTA 5 story mode is a single-player experience where you play as three different characters. GTA Online is a freemode multiplayer mode, where you can create your own character and play alongside or against other players in an open world setting.
12. When is GTA 6 expected to be released?
Current expectations place the release of GTA 6 sometime between 2024 and 2025. However, the actual release date is dependent on Rockstar’s development timeline.
13. Is Red Dead Redemption 2 cross-play?
No, Red Dead Redemption 2 does not have cross-play. Similar to GTA 5, its multiplayer mode is restricted to users on the same console.
14. Can I play GTA 5 online using cloud gaming services?
Yes, you can play GTA 5 online using compatible cloud gaming services, if those services host the game, but you are still limited to playing with those on the same platform as the cloud service.
15. Will GTA 6 be realistic?
GTA 6 is expected to have upgraded graphics and enhanced physics, promising a more realistic and immersive gaming experience. Leaks have suggested this will include vehicle deformation and other more detailed world interactions.
Conclusion
While the lack of cross-gen play in GTA Online may be disappointing for those looking to connect with friends on different PlayStation consoles, understanding the limitations and the reasons behind them can help manage expectations. As we await news about GTA 6 and its potential features, we can only hope that future titles will consider implementing cross-play for a more unified gaming experience. For now, ensure you and your friends are using the same version of the game to play together online.