Should You Upgrade Your PS4 Games to PS5? A Comprehensive Guide
Absolutely! Upgrading your PS4 games to the PS5 version, when available, is almost always the right move. The enhanced performance, visual fidelity, and added features translate to a significantly improved gaming experience. Now, let’s delve into the specifics.
Why Upgrade? The Obvious and Not-So-Obvious Benefits
While the PS5 boasts a fantastic library of native titles, its capability to play (and improve) your existing PS4 collection is a major selling point. However, some gamers are hesitant to upgrade. Let’s explore the value of transferring.
Enhanced Performance and Visuals
The most immediate benefit is a noticeable boost in performance. PS4 games running on the PS5 often experience:
- Higher and more stable frame rates: Say goodbye to choppy gameplay. The PS5’s powerful hardware allows many PS4 titles to hit a buttery-smooth 60 frames per second, or even higher in some cases.
- Increased resolution: Many games will automatically render at a higher resolution on the PS5, leading to sharper, more detailed visuals.
- Faster loading times: The PS5’s SSD drastically reduces loading times compared to the PS4’s traditional hard drive. This means less waiting and more playing.
- Improved graphical fidelity: Even without a dedicated PS5 patch, the PS5 can leverage its superior hardware to improve textures, lighting, and other visual effects.
Taking Advantage of PS5-Specific Features
Beyond the performance enhancements, some PS4 games offer free or paid upgrades to a dedicated PS5 version. These upgraded versions unlock the full potential of the PS5, including:
- Haptic feedback and adaptive triggers: The DualSense controller‘s haptic feedback and adaptive triggers add a new dimension to gameplay, providing tactile sensations that enhance immersion.
- 3D audio: The PS5’s 3D audio technology creates a more realistic and immersive soundscape, allowing you to pinpoint sounds in 3D space.
- Activity Cards and Quick Resume: The PS5’s user interface features such as Activity Cards make it easy to jump back into your favorite games, while Quick Resume lets you switch between multiple games without losing your progress.
The Value Proposition
Consider the value you’re getting. Many upgrades from PS4 to PS5 versions are free, especially for digital purchases. Even paid upgrades are typically priced lower than a full-priced new game. For a small investment (or no investment at all), you’re essentially getting a revitalized version of a game you already own and enjoy.
How to Upgrade Your Games
The process varies slightly depending on whether you own the game digitally or on disc.
Digital Games
- Go to the PlayStation Store on your PS5.
- Search for the PS4 game you own.
- On the game’s page, look for an option to upgrade to the PS5 version. If available, it will typically be labeled as “Free” or display the upgrade price.
- Download and install the PS5 version.
Disc-Based Games
- Insert the PS4 game disc into your PS5.
- Go to the game’s page on the PS5 home screen.
- If an upgrade is available, you’ll see an option to download the PS5 version. You’ll likely have to keep the disc inserted to play the upgraded version.
- If no option to upgrade appears, navigate to the PlayStation Store. Then, search for the game and upgrade to the PS5 version.
- Download and install the PS5 version.
Potential Drawbacks
While upgrading is almost always a good idea, there are a few potential downsides to consider:
- Storage space: PS5 games generally require more storage space than their PS4 counterparts. Make sure you have enough space on your PS5’s SSD. An M.2 SSD can be added to increase the storage capacity of your PS5.
- Save data compatibility: While most PS4 games allow you to transfer your save data to the PS5 version, there are some exceptions. Check the game’s documentation or online forums to confirm save data compatibility.
- Bugs and glitches: Occasionally, PS5 upgrades can introduce new bugs or glitches. Check online forums for player feedback before upgrading.
Making the Decision
Ultimately, the decision to upgrade your PS4 games to the PS5 version depends on your individual circumstances and preferences. However, considering the numerous benefits – improved performance, enhanced visuals, added features – it’s almost always a worthwhile investment.
To deepen your understanding of game design and development, explore resources offered by organizations like the Games Learning Society, or GamesLearningSociety.org.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are all PS4 games upgradable to PS5?
No, not all PS4 games offer a dedicated PS5 upgrade. Some games will simply run with improved performance on the PS5 without a specific upgrade patch. Developers decide whether or not to create a PS5 version of their PS4 game.
2. Do I have to pay to upgrade my PS4 games to PS5?
It depends on the game. Many publishers offer free upgrades, especially for digital versions you already own. Some offer paid upgrades at a reduced price. Check the PlayStation Store for upgrade options.
3. Will my PS4 save data transfer to the PS5 version?
In most cases, yes. However, compatibility varies from game to game. Some games may require you to upload your save data to the cloud and then download it on the PS5, while others may allow you to transfer it directly via a USB drive or network transfer. Check the game developer’s website.
4. Is it better to play PS4 games on disc or digitally on PS5?
The performance will be the same regardless of whether you play a PS4 game on disc or digitally on the PS5. However, for the PS5 version of a game, the digital version may save you the hassle of swapping discs.
5. Will PS4 controllers work on PS5 games?
No. PS4 controllers only work with PS4 games on the PS5. You need a DualSense controller to play PS5 games. PS4 controllers can be used when using Remote Play to control your PS5.
6. Can I play PS5 games on my PS4?
No. The PS5 does not support forwards compatibility. PS5 games cannot be played directly on a PS4 console.
7. Will upgrading a PS4 game to PS5 delete the PS4 version?
No. Upgrading typically installs a separate PS5 version of the game. You’ll still have both versions on your console unless you manually delete the PS4 version.
8. How much storage space do I need for PS5 games?
PS5 games generally require more storage space than PS4 games. It’s a good idea to have at least 500GB of free space on your PS5’s SSD, and preferably more.
9. Will PS4 games look significantly better on PS5 even without an upgrade?
Yes, even without a dedicated PS5 upgrade, most PS4 games will benefit from the PS5’s superior hardware. Expect faster loading times, smoother frame rates, and improved resolution.
10. Can I transfer PS4 games from an external hard drive to my PS5?
Yes, you can transfer PS4 games from an external hard drive to your PS5. This is a quick and easy way to move your games without having to re-download them.
11. What happens if I start playing a PS4 game on PS4 and then upgrade to PS5?
You can usually transfer your save data from the PS4 version to the PS5 version and continue your progress seamlessly.
12. Why are PS5 games more expensive than PS4 games?
PS5 games are generally more expensive due to increased development costs and the use of more advanced technology.
13. Will my PS4 games download faster on PS5?
The PS5’s download speeds may be the same as PS4. This is a common complaint of some Playstation users. The PS5 features an SSD and supports PS4 titles. Prior-gen games will load faster on PS5, but not as dramatically as with PS5-optimized titles.
14. Is a PS5 worth it for playing PS4 games?
Yes, the PS5 is definitely worth it for playing PS4 games. The enhanced performance, faster loading times, and potential upgrades make it a significantly better experience overall.
15. How long will Sony continue to support the PS4?
While there’s no official end date, Sony is still supporting the PS4. You can still enjoy cross-play with PS5 players in many games. The average lifespan of a video game console is around six years. Support for the PS4 may dwindle in future years.