PS5 Backwards Compatibility: Can You Play Your PS4 Discs?
Yes, the PlayStation 5 (PS5) is backward compatible with the vast majority of PlayStation 4 (PS4) game discs. This means you can insert your physical PS4 game discs directly into your PS5 console and enjoy playing them. This feature allows a seamless transition for gamers who are upgrading from the PS4, allowing them to continue enjoying their existing library of games.
Understanding PS5 Backwards Compatibility
The PS5’s backward compatibility is a significant feature that sets it apart from some previous console generations. It essentially means you don’t have to leave your favorite PS4 games behind when you upgrade to a new console. The PS5 can play a large collection of thousands of PS4 games, both physically on disc and digitally downloaded from the PlayStation Store. This is a fantastic bonus for players who have invested in a substantial collection of games over the years.
How Does Backwards Compatibility Work?
When you insert a PS4 game disc into the PS5, the console reads the disc and installs the necessary files. Then you can launch and play the game as you would on a PS4. The process is smooth and straightforward. The same applies to digital games; if you have bought digital PS4 games linked to your PlayStation account, they will be available for download and play on your PS5. This ease of access is one of the reasons many gamers consider the PS5 a worthwhile upgrade.
What About Older PlayStation Games?
While the PS5 is backwards compatible with PS4 games, it does not offer native support for older PlayStation consoles like PS3, PS2, or PS1. This means you cannot simply insert PS3, PS2 or PS1 discs into your PS5 and play them directly.
Accessing Classic PlayStation Titles
However, there is a way to play some older PlayStation games on the PS5. Through the PlayStation Plus Premium/Deluxe service, you can access a growing library of classic PS1, PS2, and PS3 games. These games are emulated and must be downloaded from the PlayStation Network. Keep in mind that this is a subscription-based service and the selection of games available is limited. This feature provides a taste of retro gaming for nostalgia fans but is not the same as having native disc compatibility.
PS4 Games That Do Not Work on PS5
While the majority of PS4 games are compatible, there are a few exceptions. Here are some PS4 games that will 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
- TT Isle of Man – Ride on the Edge 2
- We Sing
It is important to note that this list is not exhaustive, but these are the most commonly known titles that have issues with backward compatibility.
Visual and Performance Enhancements
One common question is whether PS4 games look better on the PS5. While the PS5’s powerful hardware can provide improvements, this isn’t true for every game. Some PS4 games have received upgrade patches that unlock improved visuals, performance, and faster loading times on the PS5. However, most PS4 games will look and perform very similarly on both consoles. The PS5 might offer a slight improvement in loading times and may take advantage of the console’s more powerful GPU for slightly smoother gameplay in some titles but do not expect a massive difference in the vast majority of cases without specific PS5 upgrades or patches.
Can You Use PS5 Game Discs on a PS4?
Unfortunately, no. Unlike the Xbox Smart Delivery program, the PS5 does not support forward compatibility with its own games. This means you cannot take a PS5 game disc and play it on a PS4. PS5 games require the more advanced hardware and system architecture that’s found within the PS5 console which is not available in the PS4.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I play my digital PS4 games on my PS5?
Yes, any digital PS4 games you have purchased and linked to your PlayStation account can be downloaded and played on your PS5 console.
2. Do I need to pay extra to play my PS4 games on my PS5?
No, you do not need to pay extra to play PS4 games that you already own on your PS5. However, access to PS1, PS2, and PS3 titles require a PlayStation Plus Premium/Deluxe subscription.
3. Will PS4 games run at 60fps on PS5?
Some PS4 games will run at 60fps on PS5 thanks to specific updates or patches released for the game or if the original game ran at 60fps on the PS4. However, the PS5 does not automatically increase the framerate of all PS4 games.
4. Are there any downsides to playing PS4 games on PS5?
The main downside is that the visual and performance improvements are not consistent across all games. Some games may not show any noticeable improvement. Also, a small handful of games are not backwards compatible at all.
5. Can I transfer my PS4 saves to my PS5?
Yes, you can transfer your saved games from your PS4 to your PS5. This can be done via a network transfer, a USB drive, or through cloud storage via PSN.
6. Does the PS5 play 4K Blu-ray discs?
Yes, the standard PS5 console includes a 4K Blu-ray disc drive, allowing you to watch movies in stunning 4K resolution. However, the console has region locks on media.
7. Can the PS5 play regular DVDs?
Yes, the PS5 can play regular DVDs. However, like Blu-rays, it is subject to regional restrictions.
8. What is the difference between the PS5 and the PS5 Slim?
The PS5 Slim is a smaller and lighter version of the standard PS5, with a slight increase in internal storage. The slim version maintains the same hardware capability as the original model.
9. Is the PS5 worth the upgrade from a PS4?
Yes, the PS5 offers significant improvements including better performance, faster loading times, 4K gaming, and access to exclusive next-gen titles. It’s considered a major upgrade over the PS4.
10. Does the PS5 controller work with PS4 games?
The DualSense controller is compatible with PS4 games played on the PS5. However, the DualShock 4 controller for the PS4 cannot be used on PS5 games.
11. Why won’t my PS5 read my PS4 disc?
Try flipping the disc. The read side of the disc should be facing the thicker part of the console when inserting it horizontally. Also, ensure the disc is clean and free of scratches.
12. Can I play PS2 games using PlayStation Plus?
Some PS2 games are available through the PlayStation Plus Premium/Deluxe service, but they are emulated versions and require a subscription. You can’t use your old PS2 discs.
13. Will future PlayStation consoles be backwards compatible?
While it’s hard to say for sure what the future holds, Sony has shown a commitment to backward compatibility. It’s expected that future generations will at least offer some form of backward compatibility if it’s technically feasible.
14. Is the PS5 region locked for games?
No, the PS5 is not region-locked for game discs. You can play game discs purchased from any region on any PS5 console. However, there are region locks on movies.
15. Can I upgrade my physical PS4 games to the PS5 versions?
For some games, developers offer a free or paid upgrade to the digital PS5 version. The process is straightforward and typically involves selecting the upgrade option from the PlayStation Store.
In conclusion, the PS5’s ability to play PS4 games offers a valuable benefit for PlayStation gamers. While the PS5 doesn’t natively support earlier consoles (PS1, PS2, PS3), the robust backward compatibility with PS4 titles and the option to access retro games through PlayStation Plus makes it an excellent choice for both new and veteran players.