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Can You Transfer All Games to PS5? The Ultimate Guide

The short answer is no, you can’t transfer all games to your PlayStation 5. While the vast majority of PlayStation 4 games are indeed compatible with the PS5, there are a few exceptions you should be aware of. Let’s dive into the details, exploring compatibility, transfer methods, and everything else you need to know to get your gaming library onto your shiny new console.

Understanding PS5 Backward Compatibility

The PS5 boasts impressive backward compatibility, meaning it can play most games designed for its predecessor, the PS4. Sony has engineered the PS5 to seamlessly run the vast majority of the PS4’s extensive game library. This is excellent news for gamers who have invested years building their digital and physical collections. However, there are a handful of titles that didn’t make the cut. Understanding this is crucial before you attempt to move your games over.

Games That Don’t Work on PS5

As mentioned earlier, a small number of PS4 games are incompatible with the PS5. The following games are known to not work on the PS5:

Afro Samurai 2: Revenge of Kuma Volume One
Hitman Go: Definitive Edition
Just Deal With It!
Robinson: The Journey
Shadwen
We Sing

This list is relatively short compared to the thousands of PS4 games available, but it’s worth checking to avoid disappointment. It’s also a good idea to periodically check online for updated lists, as compatibility can sometimes change via software updates, although this is rare.

Transferring Games from PS4 to PS5: Your Options

Fortunately, Sony offers several convenient ways to transfer your games from your PS4 to your PS5:

Data Transfer via Wi-Fi or LAN Cable: This is the most comprehensive method. It allows you to transfer game data, save data, user profiles, and even system settings from your PS4 to your PS5 over your local network. This option is ideal for moving a large amount of data. For the fastest transfer speed, use a LAN cable to connect both consoles to your router.
External USB Drive: You can copy your PS4 games to an external USB hard drive and then connect that drive to your PS5. The PS5 can play compatible PS4 games directly from the external drive, freeing up space on your PS5’s internal storage. This method is great for games you don’t play frequently but still want to have readily available. Note that the PS5’s internal drive offers faster loading times, so prioritize installing your most-played games internally.
Downloading from the PlayStation Network: If you purchased your PS4 games digitally through the PlayStation Store, you can simply re-download them onto your PS5. This method works well for individual games or when you have a fast internet connection.

Key Considerations for Transferring Games

Before starting the transfer process, keep these points in mind:

Account Compatibility: Ensure you’re signed in to the same PlayStation account on both your PS4 and PS5. This is crucial for accessing your purchased games and save data.
Storage Space: Check the available storage space on your PS5. You might need to delete some games or apps to make room for the transferred data. The PS5 has a limited internal storage, so managing your game library is important. You might consider an additional SSD storage.
Transfer Time: The transfer time depends on the amount of data being transferred and the connection speed. Be patient, especially when transferring large games or using Wi-Fi.

Playing PS4 Disc Games on PS5

If you own physical copies of PS4 games, playing them on your PS5 is straightforward, provided you have the standard PS5 model with a disc drive. Simply insert the disc into the PS5, and the console will install the game.

PS5 Digital Edition: The PS5 Digital Edition, which lacks a disc drive, cannot play physical PS4 game discs. You’ll need to purchase digital versions of those games through the PlayStation Store.
Upgrading PS4 Disc Games to PS5 Digital Versions: Some PS4 games offer a free or discounted upgrade to their PS5 digital versions. To claim the upgrade, insert the PS4 disc into your PS5 and follow the on-screen instructions. You’ll typically need to keep the PS4 disc inserted while playing the upgraded PS5 version to verify ownership.

FAQs: Your PS5 Game Transfer Questions Answered

Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further clarify the process of transferring games to your PS5:

1. Can I transfer my PS4 save data to PS5?

Yes, you can transfer your PS4 save data to your PS5 using the data transfer method, PlayStation Plus cloud storage, or a USB drive.

2. Will my PS4 game run better on PS5?

Many PS4 games benefit from the PS5’s Game Boost feature, which can improve frame rates and resolution, resulting in a smoother and visually enhanced experience.

3. Can I play PS3 games on PS5?

Unfortunately, the PS5 does not have native backward compatibility with PS3 games. The only way to play PS3 games on PS5 is through PlayStation Plus Premium’s cloud streaming service, if the game is available.

4. How do I use an external hard drive for PS4 games on PS5?

Connect the external hard drive to your PS5. Go to Settings > Storage > Extended Storage. Select the games you want to move and choose “Move to Extended Storage.” To play the games, ensure the drive is connected.

5. What if my game isn’t transferring?

Ensure both consoles are connected to the internet and signed in to the same account. Restart both consoles and try again. Check for system software updates on both devices.

6. Is it faster to transfer games via Wi-Fi or LAN cable?

A LAN cable provides a significantly faster and more stable connection than Wi-Fi, especially for large data transfers.

7. Can I transfer games from one PS5 to another PS5?

Yes, you can transfer data between two PS5 consoles using the data transfer method.

8. How much storage does the PS5 have?

The PS5 has approximately 825GB of storage, but only around 667GB is usable for games and apps.

9. Can I upgrade the PS5’s storage?

Yes, you can expand the PS5’s storage by installing an NVMe SSD in the designated expansion slot. Check Sony’s website for compatible SSD models.

10. Do I need PlayStation Plus to transfer save data?

You only need PlayStation Plus to transfer save data to the cloud. You can transfer save data via data transfer or USB drive without a PlayStation Plus subscription.

11. Are all PS4 games automatically upgraded to PS5 versions?

No, not all PS4 games have a free PS5 upgrade. It depends on the publisher’s decision. Check the PlayStation Store for upgrade availability.

12. How do I know if a PS4 game has a PS5 upgrade?

Check the PlayStation Store listing for the game. It will usually indicate whether a free or paid upgrade to the PS5 version is available.

13. What happens if I delete a game from my PS5?

If you delete a game from your PS5, you can re-download it from the PlayStation Store (if it’s a digital purchase) or reinstall it from the disc. Your save data is typically stored separately, but it’s always a good idea to back it up.

14. Will the PS5 read a PS4 game disc from another region?

The PS5 is generally region-free for games, so it should be able to play PS4 game discs from other regions. However, downloadable content (DLC) is typically region-locked and must match the region of your PlayStation account.

15. How many games can a 1TB PS5 hold?

While it depends on game size, a 1TB PS5 (after system files) can realistically hold around 10-20 large AAA games, or significantly more smaller indie titles.

Embracing the PS5 Experience

Transferring your games to your PS5 is generally a straightforward process. By understanding the backward compatibility limitations and utilizing the available transfer methods, you can enjoy your favorite PS4 games on the next-generation console. The PS5 offers enhanced performance, stunning visuals, and innovative features that elevate the gaming experience. Take your time, plan your transfers, and enjoy the enhanced gaming world the PS5 brings. If you’re interested in learning more about the educational aspects of gaming, check out the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.

Can you transfer all games to PS5?