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Can I Play GTA 5 PS4 Version on PS5? Everything You Need to Know

Yes, you absolutely can play the PS4 version of Grand Theft Auto V (GTA 5) on your PlayStation 5. Thanks to the PS5’s backward compatibility, you can insert your physical PS4 disc or download your digital copy and start playing. However, there are crucial distinctions and considerations you should be aware of. This article will thoroughly explore what playing the PS4 version on PS5 entails, covering everything from performance differences to the availability of a dedicated PS5 upgrade.

Playing GTA 5 PS4 Version on PS5: What to Expect

When you launch the PS4 version of GTA 5 on your PS5, you’re essentially playing the game as it was designed for the previous generation console. This means:

No native PS5 enhancements: You will not experience the graphical enhancements, improved load times, or performance boosts that the native PS5 version offers.
PS4 Player Pool: You’ll be limited to playing GTA Online with other PS4 players. You cannot join sessions with players on the enhanced PS5 version.
Standard PS4 Graphics and Performance: While the PS5’s hardware may provide a slight boost to performance and loading times over a standard PS4, you won’t get the full benefit of the PS5’s capabilities. The game will not have ray tracing, improved textures, or run at a higher resolution or frame rate.
No Character Migration Option: If you opt for the native PS5 version later, remember that you will need to use a migration tool to bring your progress to the new generation version.

In essence, playing the PS4 version on your PS5 is a functional solution for those who haven’t upgraded to the enhanced version but it doesn’t tap into the console’s true potential.

Upgrading to the Enhanced PS5 Version

If you own a PS5, the enhanced version of GTA 5 provides a vastly superior experience. Here are the key upgrades:

Improved Graphics: This includes higher resolution (often at 4K), increased draw distance, improved textures, better lighting, and ray tracing.
Faster Load Times: The PS5’s SSD drastically reduces loading screens, providing smoother and quicker transitions in the game.
Performance Modes: The PS5 version offers multiple performance modes, allowing you to choose between higher resolution and frame rates, including an option for 60 frames per second.
Expanded Population and Vegetation Density: The game world feels more alive and populated, enhancing the overall immersion.
Access to PS5 Player Pool: By upgrading, you’ll be able to play GTA Online with other PS5 players who also have the enhanced version.

To access the PS5 version, you need to either buy the bundle or purchase GTA Online separately. The pricing for the upgrade bundle has been offered at a discounted rate for PlayStation users.

Should You Play the PS4 Version on PS5?

The decision to play the PS4 version of GTA 5 on your PS5 depends on your circumstances and priorities:

If you’re waiting to upgrade: Playing the PS4 version allows you to enjoy the game while you decide whether to get the enhanced version.
If you’re on a budget: You can still play the game without spending extra money on the PS5 upgrade.
If you want to play with friends on PS4: If your friends are still playing on PS4, the PS4 version is your only way to join their GTA Online sessions.
If you prioritize the best experience: You should opt for the enhanced PS5 version for significantly improved graphics, faster load times, and a smoother frame rate.

In conclusion, while playing the PS4 version of GTA 5 on PS5 is possible, it’s worthwhile to consider upgrading to the PS5 version for the optimal gaming experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions regarding playing GTA 5 on the PS5:

1. Is the GTA 5 PS5 upgrade free?

No, the GTA 5 Expanded and Enhanced Version for PS5 is not a free upgrade. You will need to purchase it separately from the PlayStation Store. However, PlayStation Plus users have sometimes received discounts on the upgrade.

2. Can I play the PS4 version of GTA Online with PS5 players?

No. If you are playing the PS4 version of GTA 5 on your PS5, you can only play with other players who are also on the PS4 version. Players on the enhanced PS5 version cannot join your sessions, and vice versa.

3. Do I need to buy GTA 5 again for PS5 if I already own it on PS4?

While you can play the PS4 version on your PS5 using your existing disc or digital copy, you will have to pay for the PS5 enhanced version separately. The upgrade is a paid purchase.

4. What’s the difference between GTA 5 PS4 and PS5 versions?

The PS5 version features significant improvements in graphics, including 4K resolution, improved textures, draw distance, ray tracing, HDR, faster load times, enhanced vegetation density, and 60fps support. The PS4 version will not benefit from these changes.

5. Does GTA 5 run better on PS5 even on the PS4 version?

While the PS5 may provide a slight performance boost to the PS4 version, you will not experience the drastic improvements seen in the native PS5 version. This is due to the fact the PS4 game is not optimized to leverage the PS5’s power.

6. Which GTA 5 version is best for PS5?

The enhanced PS5 version is undoubtedly the best to play on the PS5 due to the graphical enhancements, faster load times, and the overall better user experience.

7. Do PS4 games look better on PS5?

Some PS4 games may receive performance improvements and slight graphical boosts via backward compatibility, but most PS4 games will not look significantly different on the PS5 compared to the PS4.

8. How do I transfer my GTA Online progress from PS4 to PS5?

When you launch the PS5 version of GTA Online, you will be given the option to migrate your profile. This will transfer your characters, progress, and in-game items to the new version.

9. How much does the GTA 5 PS5 upgrade cost?

The upgrade bundle, which includes both the story mode and GTA Online upgrade, is usually priced at $19.99. You can purchase GTA Online separately for $9.99.

10. Can I delete the PS4 version of GTA 5 after upgrading?

Yes, it is advisable to delete the PS4 version after you’ve upgraded and migrated your character, as it is no longer necessary. Additionally, you will not be able to go back to playing the PS4 version of the game after your profile has been migrated.

11. Do PS4 games automatically upgrade to their PS5 versions?

No, PS4 games do not automatically upgrade to their PS5 versions. You need to check if a specific PS4 game offers a paid or free upgrade path via the PlayStation Store.

12. Can PS5 players play with PS4 players online?

Cross-generation multiplayer is possible, but only when both players are playing the PS4 version of GTA 5. If the PS5 player is using the enhanced PS5 version, they cannot play with players using the PS4 version, or vice versa.

13. How do I know if my PS4 games will work on my PS5?

All PS4 physical disc games will work on PS5. Digital copies of PS4 games purchased from the PlayStation Store can be downloaded and played on your PS5.

14. What happens if I get banned in GTA Online?

If you are banned from GTA Online, you will need to create a new account to play. You do not need to buy another copy of the game. However, you will lose your previous account’s progress and items.

15. Is GTA 6 coming to PS4?

It is unlikely that GTA 6 will be released on PS4 due to the fact that it is primarily being developed to harness the full potential of newer consoles like PS5. It is expected to release on next-gen consoles first.

By understanding the nuances of playing the PS4 version of GTA 5 on your PS5 and weighing your options, you can enjoy the game in a way that best suits your preferences and gaming setup.

Can I play GTA 5 PS4 version on PS5?