Can I Put a PS4 Disc in a PS5? A Deep Dive into Backwards Compatibility
Yes, you absolutely can put a PS4 disc in a PS5. The PS5 boasts backwards compatibility with the vast majority of PS4 games, allowing you to enjoy your existing library on the newer hardware. It’s a fantastic feature that saves you from having to rebuy all your favorite titles.
Understanding PS5 Backwards Compatibility
The implementation of backwards compatibility on the PS5 is a significant win for gamers. Unlike some previous console generations, where playing older games required complicated workarounds or was simply impossible, the PS5 makes the process relatively seamless. Simply insert the PS4 game disc into your PS5 console (provided you have the standard model with a disc drive), and the system will recognize the game.
There are, however, a few important caveats and considerations that are worth exploring.
The Disc Drive Requirement
The first and most obvious requirement is that you need the standard PS5 model that includes a disc drive. The PS5 Digital Edition, as the name suggests, lacks a disc drive, meaning you won’t be able to play physical PS4 games on it. If you own a PS5 Digital Edition, your only option for playing PS4 games is to purchase them digitally through the PlayStation Store.
Installation and Updates
Once you insert the PS4 disc, the PS5 may prompt you to download an update for the game. This is a common occurrence, as developers often release patches and improvements post-launch. Installing these updates is generally recommended, as they can fix bugs, add new features, and optimize performance.
Keeping the Disc Inserted
Just like on the PS4, you’ll need to keep the PS4 disc inserted in the PS5 while playing the game. The PS5 uses the disc as a form of license verification, ensuring that you legitimately own the game. Without the disc inserted, the game won’t launch.
Game Boost and Performance Enhancements
One of the exciting aspects of playing PS4 games on the PS5 is the potential for improved performance. The PS5’s more powerful hardware can often provide a “Game Boost,” resulting in smoother frame rates and faster loading times. Some games may even receive specific PS5 enhancements via updates, further improving their visuals and performance.
Not All Games Are Compatible
While the PS5 is backwards compatible with the vast majority of PS4 games, there are a few exceptions. A small number of PS4 games are not supported on the PS5 for various technical reasons. These are relatively rare, but it’s worth checking a list of incompatible titles before assuming that every PS4 game will work flawlessly. Sony keeps an updated list of these titles on their website.
Save Data Transfers
If you’re planning to continue a PS4 game on your PS5, you’ll likely want to transfer your save data. This can be done in a few ways:
- Cloud Storage: If you have a PlayStation Plus subscription, you can upload your PS4 save data to the cloud and then download it to your PS5.
- USB Drive: You can copy your PS4 save data to a USB drive and then transfer it to your PS5.
- Network Transfer: You can transfer save data directly between your PS4 and PS5 consoles over your home network.
Digital Purchases vs. Physical Discs
If you’ve purchased a PS4 game digitally through the PlayStation Store, you can simply download it to your PS5 without needing a disc. In some cases, you might even be eligible for a free or discounted PS5 upgrade, depending on the game and the publisher’s policies.
FAQs: Playing PS4 Games on PS5
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the process of playing PS4 games on your PS5:
1. Will my PS4 save data automatically transfer to my PS5?
No, you’ll need to manually transfer your PS4 save data to your PS5 using one of the methods described above (cloud storage, USB drive, or network transfer).
2. Do PS4 games look better on PS5?
In many cases, yes. The PS5’s Game Boost feature can improve frame rates and loading times. Some games may also receive graphical enhancements via updates. However, the extent of the improvement varies from game to game.
3. Can I upgrade my PS4 game to the PS5 version for free?
Some games offer free PS5 upgrades to owners of the PS4 version. This depends on the game and the publisher’s policies. Check the PlayStation Store for upgrade options.
4. What happens if I insert a PS3 disc into my PS5?
The PS5 is not backwards compatible with PS3 games. You will not be able to play PS3 discs on your PS5.
5. Do I need PlayStation Plus to play PS4 games online on my PS5?
Yes, if the PS4 game requires a PlayStation Plus subscription for online multiplayer, you’ll still need a subscription to play it online on your PS5.
6. Can I use my PS4 controller on my PS5 to play PS4 games?
Yes, you can use your PS4 DualShock 4 controller to play PS4 games on your PS5. However, you’ll need a DualSense controller to play PS5 games.
7. Will PS4 games take up more storage space on my PS5?
Generally, PS4 games will take up roughly the same amount of storage space on your PS5 as they did on your PS4.
8. Can I play PSVR games on my PS5?
Yes, you can play PSVR games on your PS5, but you’ll need the PlayStation Camera adapter, which Sony provided for free.
9. Are there any PS4 games that are completely incompatible with the PS5?
Yes, a small number of PS4 games are not compatible with the PS5. Sony has a list of these titles on their website. As per this article, the titles are Afro Samurai 2 Revenge of Kuma Volume One, Hitman Go: Definitive Edition, Just Deal With It!, Robinson: The Journey, Shadwen, TT Isle of Man – Ride on the Edge 2, and We Sing.
10. Can I transfer my digital PS4 games to an external hard drive and then play them on my PS5?
Yes, you can store PS4 games on an external hard drive and play them on your PS5. However, PS5 games can only be stored on the internal SSD or a compatible M.2 SSD.
11. Does the PS5 make PS4 games look dramatically better?
While the PS5 can enhance PS4 games, the improvement isn’t always dramatic. Expect smoother performance and potentially slightly improved visuals, but don’t expect a complete graphical overhaul.
12. If I have a PS4 disc and buy the digital PS5 version, do I need to keep the PS4 disc?
No, if you own the digital PS5 version, you don’t need the PS4 disc. The digital version acts as a standalone license.
13. Is it better to play PS4 games on PS4 or PS5?
Generally, the PS5 offers a better experience due to improved performance and potentially enhanced visuals. However, some players may prefer the original experience on the PS4.
14. Can I stream PS4 games from my PS5 to other devices?
Yes, you can use Remote Play to stream PS4 games from your PS5 to other devices, such as your smartphone or computer.
15. Will playing PS4 games on my PS5 damage the console?
No, playing PS4 games on your PS5 will not damage the console. The PS5 is designed to handle backwards compatibility safely and efficiently.
Exploring the Future of Gaming
The PS5’s backwards compatibility is a testament to the importance of preserving and celebrating gaming history. It allows players to revisit classic titles and discover new favorites from the previous generation. As technology continues to evolve, it’s crucial to ensure that games remain accessible and enjoyable for years to come. To learn more about games and their educational impact, be sure to check out the GamesLearningSociety.org website.