Does Cross Gen Mean PS4 and PS5? Unpacking the Concept
Yes, cross-gen does refer to games that are playable on both the PlayStation 4 (PS4) and PlayStation 5 (PS5). This term signifies that a particular game has been designed or adapted to function on multiple generations of consoles within the same family – in this case, Sony’s PlayStation ecosystem. This means you might be able to buy a single digital version of a game and play it on either console. This concept also extends to other console families as well, such as Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S . Understanding cross-gen is crucial for gamers who own, or are considering owning, both a PS4 and PS5 because it dictates how you can play games across the two platforms, and what you can expect from a game’s performance and features.
Understanding Cross-Gen Gaming
The term “cross-gen” has become increasingly common in the video game industry, largely due to the transition period between console generations. Instead of instantly abandoning older consoles when a new one releases, many publishers opted to develop and release games on both systems. This approach ensures a larger audience can access the games, while offering a smoother transition for gamers who might not immediately upgrade to the newest hardware.
Cross-Gen vs. Cross-Platform
It is important to distinguish between cross-gen and cross-platform. While cross-gen refers to a game existing on multiple generations of consoles within the same family (like PS4 and PS5), cross-platform refers to a game being available and playable across different console families and sometimes PC. An example of cross-platform would be a game available on PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC. These two concepts are often confused, so clarity is crucial.
How Does Cross-Gen Work?
A game designed for cross-gen play might have slight differences between the versions. Generally, the PS5 version will take advantage of the console’s superior hardware, offering enhanced graphics, faster loading times, and potentially more advanced gameplay features. The PS4 version, while still offering the core game experience, might have lower resolution textures, longer loading times, or fewer advanced features.
Cross-gen bundles often include both the PS4 and PS5 versions of the game within the same digital purchase. This is convenient for players who might be transitioning between the consoles or want to play with friends who have different versions. These bundles often allow you to download and install both versions onto your PS5, giving you the choice of which version to play.
The Benefits of Cross-Gen
- Seamless Transitions: Players can transfer their game saves and player profiles from PS4 to PS5, allowing for an uninterrupted gaming experience.
- Accessibility: Cross-gen provides a way for gamers who are yet to upgrade to the latest hardware to still play and enjoy new titles alongside their friends.
- Choice: Having both a PS4 and PS5 version gives players the freedom to choose where to play a given game. For example, you may want to play an older game with your friends still on PS4 or play the improved version on your own.
- Cost-Effective: Cross-gen bundles are often more affordable than buying the game separately for each console.
How to Switch Between PS4 and PS5 Versions
If you own both the PS4 and PS5 versions of a game, the PlayStation system makes switching relatively simple. You can usually manage the installed versions directly from your game library on the PS5 home screen. The game icon will usually indicate if there are different versions installed. Select the correct version to launch your desired application.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What does a Cross-Gen Edition mean?
A Cross-Gen Edition is a digital version of a game that includes both the PS4 and PS5 versions (or the Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S versions). This is sold as a single purchase that gives you access to play the game on either console within the PlayStation or Xbox ecosystem.
2. Can I play a PS4 game on PS5?
Yes, the vast majority of PS4 games are compatible with PS5. You can play both digital PS4 games purchased on the PlayStation Store and physical PS4 game discs on your PS5. Some PS4 games will even benefit from the PS5’s Game Boost feature, potentially increasing the game’s frame rate or enhancing the visuals.
3. How do PS4 games look on PS5?
While not all games receive a dedicated “upgrade patch,” most PS4 games will generally look the same on PS5 as they do on PS4. However, some PS4 games can benefit from the PS5’s enhanced capabilities, such as increased frame rates or slightly better performance. Games with PS5 upgrade patches will have significantly better graphics and can utilize the PS5’s unique features like haptic feedback, where supported.
4. What are Cross-Gen saves?
Cross-gen saves refer to the ability to transfer your save game data between the PS4 and PS5 versions of the same game. This means you can start playing a game on your PS4 and continue your progress on your PS5 without having to restart from the beginning. The PS5 often detects compatible save data in your PlayStation Plus cloud storage, making the transfer process straightforward.
5. Do I need to buy two versions of a game for PS4 and PS5?
Not necessarily. If you purchase a cross-gen game (often through digital download) you should only need one version to play on either the PS4 or PS5. If you buy the physical PS4 disc, you may need to purchase an upgrade to play the PS5 version or buy the full PS5 disc. Often cross-gen bundles include both versions.
6. What is a cross-gen bundle on PS5?
A cross-gen bundle on PS5 includes both the PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 versions of a particular game. This allows you to install and play either version on your PS5 console. This is useful for those who are transitioning or if they wish to play a game on both systems.
7. Is a PS4 version of the game better on the PS5?
In most cases, no. If there is a dedicated PS5 version of a game, it’s almost always better to play that version on the PS5, as it will have improved graphics and use the PS5’s unique features. The PS4 version of a game will look and play as it does on the PS4 even if played on the PS5. The benefits only come from Game Boost for a small amount of PS4 titles.
8. Are there PS4 games that don’t work on PS5?
Yes, there are a small number of PS4 games that are not compatible with the PS5. These include: 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.
9. Can I play PS3 games on PS5?
No, PS5 is not compatible with physical PS3 game discs. While you may be able to digitally purchase some PS3 games via streaming on the PlayStation Network, there is no direct disc compatibility.
10. Is the PS5 worth upgrading from PS4?
Yes, the PS5 is a significant upgrade over the PS4. It offers much-improved graphics, faster loading times, and exclusive features like the DualSense controller’s haptic feedback. If you plan to buy a new console, the PS5 is the better choice in 2024.
11. What is the difference between the standard PS5 and PS5 Digital Edition?
The standard PS5 comes with a 4K Blu-ray disc drive, which allows you to play both physical games and movies. The PS5 Digital Edition lacks a disc drive, limiting you to digital games downloaded from the PlayStation Store. Otherwise, they offer the same performance.
12. What is a PlayStation bundle?
A PlayStation bundle typically refers to a package that includes the main game along with bonus content such as DLC expansions, in-game currency, or other digital extras. Always check what is included with the specific bundle you are considering.
13. Can old gen consoles play with new gen consoles?
Yes, with cross-gen games, old-gen consoles (like PS4 and Xbox One) can play with players on new-gen consoles (like PS5 and Xbox Series X|S). This allows players on different console generations to play with one another online.
14. Can you play next-gen games on current gen consoles?
In the context of cross-gen, yes, you can technically play a game on both the newer and older consoles if the game is available across both. This requires purchasing the applicable bundle or the individual console-specific versions. Some newer games will only be available on new-gen consoles.
15. What does it mean when someone says a game is “cross generational”?
Cross-generational is another way of saying cross-gen. It means that a game is available on multiple console generations within the same family, such as PS4 and PS5. It is the same as saying “cross-gen”.
By understanding the ins and outs of cross-gen gaming, you can make informed choices about which games to buy and which console to play them on. It provides a more flexible and accessible way to enjoy gaming across console generations, making transitions easier and more budget-friendly.