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Does PS4 Cloud Data Transfer to PS5? A Comprehensive Guide

Yes, PS4 cloud data can transfer to PS5, but it’s not entirely automatic for all games. While PS5 games automatically sync their save data to the cloud, PS4 games require you to manually download the data from the cloud to your PS5 console storage. Think of it like this: your PS5 games are automatically backing themselves up, while your PS4 games need a little nudge to get on board. Let’s dive deeper into how this works, why it’s like this, and how to ensure your progress makes the jump to the next generation.

Understanding the Transfer Process

The PlayStation ecosystem offers several ways to move your precious game saves from your old PS4 to your shiny new PS5. The cloud storage method is just one of them, but it’s often the most convenient, especially if you no longer have access to both consoles simultaneously.

The key thing to remember is that transferring via the cloud relies on your PlayStation Plus subscription. If you’re a PS Plus member, your PS4 saves are likely already being automatically uploaded to the cloud. If not, you’ll need to manually upload them from your PS4 before you can download them onto your PS5.

Steps for Cloud Transfer:

On your PS4: Ensure your game saves are uploaded to the cloud. Go to Settings > Application Saved Data Management > Saved Data in System Storage > Upload to Online Storage. Select the games you want to transfer and upload their save data. Make sure you are connected to the internet and signed into your PlayStation Network account.
On your PS5: Head to Settings > Saved Data and Game/App Settings > Saved Data (PS4) > Cloud Storage. Select Download to Console Storage. You’ll see a list of your PS4 game saves stored in the cloud. Choose the ones you want to download.
Confirm Download: Initiate the download process. The time it takes will depend on the size of the save files and your internet connection speed.
Launch and Enjoy: Once the download is complete, launch your PS4 game on the PS5. Your save data should be automatically recognized, allowing you to continue playing right where you left off.

Alternative Transfer Methods

While cloud storage is convenient, it’s not the only game in town. Here are a couple of other ways to transfer your PS4 saves to your PS5:

Data Transfer via Network: This method involves connecting both your PS4 and PS5 to the same network and directly transferring data between them. It’s often the fastest method, especially for large amounts of data. The PS5 will even prompt you to do this during the initial setup process. Go to Settings > System > System Software > Data Transfer on your PS5, and follow the on-screen instructions.
Using a USB Drive: You can copy your PS4 save data to a USB drive and then plug the drive into your PS5 to transfer the files. This is a good option if you have a slow or unreliable internet connection. On your PS4, go to Settings > Application Saved Data Management > Saved Data in System Storage > Copy to USB Storage Device. Then, on your PS5, go to Settings > Saved Data and Game/App Settings > Saved Data (PS4) > USB Drive and copy the saves to your console storage.

Why Isn’t It All Automatic?

The reason PS4 game saves aren’t automatically downloaded to your PS5 like PS5 game saves is primarily due to the system architecture differences and how Sony handled backwards compatibility. The PS5 prioritizes seamless integration and cloud syncing for its native games. While PS4 games benefit from enhanced performance and resolution on the PS5, the save data management remains tied to the older PS4 system.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions people have about transferring PS4 save data to the PS5:

1. Does transferring data from PS4 to PS5 delete the data on my PS4?

No, transferring data does not delete the data on your PS4. It essentially copies the data to your PS5, leaving the original files intact on your PS4. This allows you to continue playing on either console.

2. How long does it take to transfer data from PS4 to PS5?

The time it takes to transfer data depends on the amount of data being transferred and the method used. A direct network transfer is usually the fastest, taking anywhere from a few minutes to a couple of hours. Cloud downloads and USB transfers can take longer, especially for large save files or if your internet connection is slow.

3. What happens if I don’t transfer my save data to PS5?

If you don’t transfer your save data, you’ll have to start your PS4 games from scratch on the PS5. All your progress, achievements, and unlocked content will be lost. However, some games may support cross-save functionality, allowing you to sync your progress between the PS4 and PS5 versions via the game’s servers (check game-specific information for details).

4. Can I transfer digital PS4 games to my PS5?

Yes, you can transfer digital PS4 games to your PS5. Simply log in to your PlayStation Network account on your PS5, and your purchased PS4 games will appear in your game library. You can then download and play them on your PS5.

5. What PS4 games are not compatible with PS5?

The vast majority of PS4 games are compatible with the PS5. However, a few games have been identified as incompatible. 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
We Sing

6. Why are my PS4 games locked on my PS5?

If you see a padlock icon next to your purchased content, it usually indicates a licensing issue. Try the following:

Ensure you’re logged in with the same PlayStation Network account you used to purchase the games.
Activate Console Sharing and Offline Play on your PS5.

7. What happens if I turn off my PS5 during data transfer?

Turning off your PS5 during data transfer can potentially corrupt data. It’s highly recommended to avoid interrupting the transfer process. If you accidentally turn it off, the PS5 will likely attempt to resume the transfer upon restart, but there’s a risk of data loss.

8. Do I need PlayStation Plus to transfer data from PS4 to PS5?

You only need PlayStation Plus if you’re using the cloud storage method. Data transfer via network or USB drive doesn’t require a PS Plus subscription.

9. How do I speed up the data transfer process?

Use a wired network connection instead of Wi-Fi for both consoles.
Close any running applications on both consoles.
Transfer data during off-peak hours when network traffic is lower.

10. Can I play PS3 games on my PS5?

Unfortunately, the PS5 does not have native backwards compatibility for PS3 games. You can’t directly insert a PS3 disc or download a digital PS3 game to play on the PS5. Sony offers a PlayStation Plus Premium subscription service which allows for streaming of select PS3 titles.

11. What does “Console Sharing and Offline Play” do on PS5?

Activating Console Sharing and Offline Play allows other users on your PS5 console to play your purchased digital games, even when you’re not logged in or when the console is offline. It’s similar to setting a console as your “primary” console on the PS4.

12. Is it better to transfer data or start from scratch on PS5?

Transferring data is almost always the better option if you want to continue your progress in PS4 games. Starting from scratch means losing all your hard-earned progress.

13. Can I transfer game data after setting up my PS5?

Yes, you can transfer game data after you’ve already set up your PS5. You don’t have to do it during the initial setup process.

14. My PS5 upload speed is slow. What can I do?

Slow upload speeds can hinder cloud transfers. Try these troubleshooting steps:

Restart your router and modem.
Move your PS5 closer to your router.
Use a wired network connection.
Contact your internet service provider (ISP) to check for any network issues.

15. Where can I learn more about game design and development?

For those interested in the deeper aspects of gaming, from design to the societal impact, consider exploring resources like the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/. The GamesLearningSociety.org is a community of scholars, educators, and developers dedicated to advancing the field of game-based learning.

Final Thoughts

Transferring your PS4 save data to your PS5 might seem a little convoluted at first, but it’s a straightforward process once you understand the different methods available. Whether you choose cloud storage, network transfer, or a USB drive, taking the time to move your saves ensures you can continue your gaming adventures seamlessly on your new console. Happy gaming!

Does PS4 cloud data transfer to PS5?