Decoding Cross-Gen Bundles: Everything You Need to Know
A cross-gen bundle upgrade essentially provides you with access to both the previous and current generation versions of a game, often on the same console family (PlayStation or Xbox). This means that if you buy a cross-gen bundle, you will generally receive both the PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 versions, or the Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S versions, depending on the platform. This allows players to enjoy the game on their existing older console and then transition to the upgraded version when they move to the newer console without needing to purchase the game again. The key benefit is the flexibility and value it offers as gamers upgrade their hardware. These bundles are typically offered for a single purchase price, making the transition to the latest console smoother and more cost-effective.
Why Cross-Gen Bundles Exist?
The existence of cross-gen bundles is primarily driven by the transitional period between console generations. During these times, not every gamer immediately upgrades to the latest hardware. Cross-gen bundles aim to cater to this diversity, allowing players to enjoy games even if they haven’t yet upgraded to a new console. By purchasing a cross-gen bundle, you can continue playing on your current-gen console and then switch to the next-gen version when you finally obtain the new system. This means no wasted purchases or the need to double-dip for a slightly different version.
This setup is also beneficial for publishers and developers. It allows them to continue selling games to gamers who have not yet upgraded while also ensuring those who do upgrade will continue to engage with their titles. This strategy ensures a wider audience and prolonged sales.
Enhanced Visuals and Performance
A primary allure of the cross-gen bundle is the potential to experience the same game with vastly improved graphics, frame rates, and general performance. The current-gen version of the game on a PS5 or Xbox Series X/S will generally utilize the enhanced hardware to deliver superior visuals, smoother gameplay, and faster loading times compared to the older generation version running on a PS4 or Xbox One. This experience is a key incentive to purchase the bundle.
Game Progression Carryover
Many cross-gen games support save data transfer from the previous-gen version to the current-gen version. This means players can continue their game progression, unlocking achievements and making progress on either console without the risk of losing their progress. The convenience of picking up a game on the new system right where you left off on the old system is a significant benefit for gamers. This is often facilitated via cloud saves linked to your respective console accounts such as PlayStation Plus or Xbox Game Pass.
How It Works
Typically, the cross-gen bundle is purchased digitally through the respective console store (PlayStation Store or Microsoft Store). Upon purchase, you get the right to download and play both versions of the game. For physical releases, you may need to insert the older generation disc into the current generation console to trigger the download of the upgraded current-gen version. If you own a PS4 disc and a PS5, you often need to keep the PS4 disc inserted to play the PS5 upgraded digital version.
Cross-Gen Bundle vs. Standard Edition
The difference between a cross-gen bundle and a standard edition boils down to the number of console versions you receive. A standard edition typically only includes the version of the game for one console generation – such as the PS4 or the Xbox One version. A cross-gen bundle, on the other hand, will include both the current and previous generation versions (PS4 and PS5 or Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S).
- Standard Edition: Single version of the game, usually cheaper but doesn’t offer flexibility for console upgrades.
- Cross-Gen Bundle: Includes both previous and current-gen versions, usually a bit more expensive but great for players upgrading to new hardware.
Understanding Cross-Gen Play vs. Cross-Gen Bundle
It is important not to confuse a cross-gen bundle with cross-generation play or crossplay. A cross-gen bundle as discussed, is about the game license providing access to different generations on a single console family. Cross-generation play refers to the ability of players on different generations of consoles to play together in the same online multiplayer game. For example, a player on PS4 can participate in the same multiplayer game with a player on PS5. Not all games support cross-gen play though, so it’s always important to check prior to purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions to further clarify what cross-gen bundles are and how they work:
1. What if I only have a PS4 or an Xbox One, should I buy the cross-gen bundle?
If you only have an older generation console and do not plan to upgrade soon, the standard edition of a game is probably a better option since the cross-gen bundle is designed for players transitioning to newer hardware. Buying the cross-gen version gives you a game you can’t play yet.
2. Can I play my PS4 version of a game on my PS5?
Yes. The PS5 is backward compatible with the vast majority of PS4 games. You can insert the PS4 disc or download the digital version to play.
3. Does the PS5 digital edition offer the same performance as the standard PS5?
Yes, the PS5 digital edition and the standard PS5 have identical internal hardware, and offer the same performance. The only difference is that the digital edition lacks a disc drive.
4. Is it worth upgrading to the next-gen console?
This depends on the player. If you are a casual player, upgrading to the new console may not be as beneficial right away. However, if you are looking for enhanced performance, improved visuals, and faster load times, upgrading to a PS5 or Xbox Series X/S is certainly worth considering.
5. How do I upgrade my PS4 version of a game to the PS5 version?
If an upgrade is available, it will typically be found in the PS4 game hub on the PS5. You will usually be prompted to download it. However, sometimes a paid upgrade is required. For disc versions you usually need to keep the PS4 disc inserted into the PS5 to play the upgraded digital version of the game.
6. What happens if I play a PS4 game on my PS5?
Most PS4 games are playable on the PS5, and some benefit from Game Boost, which can provide a smoother or higher frame rate.
7. Can I play games optimized for Xbox Series X/S on an external hard drive?
Yes, you can store games on an external hard drive. However, to play games that are optimized for the newer generation of consoles, they need to be installed on the console’s internal SSD or Storage Expansion Card.
8. Do I need the cross-gen bundle to play a cross-gen game on a current generation console?
Generally, no. You only need the cross-gen bundle if you want to play the game on both the previous and current generations. If you buy the PS4 standard version you can often upgrade to the PS5 version for a discount later or even for free.
9. How does cross-gen saves work?
You can usually transfer your save data from PS4 to PS5 (or Xbox One to Xbox Series X/S) through cloud storage linked to your console account. You may receive an alert when your new console detects compatible save data.
10. What does cross-gen play mean?
Cross-gen play allows players on different generations of the same console family to play multiplayer games together. For example, a player on PS4 can play online with someone on a PS5.
11. Do all games support cross-gen play?
No, not all games support cross-gen play. Some titles may only offer it between specific console generations. Always check the game’s details prior to purchase to understand if that feature is supported.
12. What does a Cross-Gen Digital Bundle provide?
In addition to having the game on both generations, the cross-gen bundle may include bonuses such as in-game currency, bonus items, or early access.
13. Can I upgrade to a Vault Edition of a game later?
Yes, if you initially purchase a standard edition you can often upgrade to a Vault Edition later on, as long as it is on the same console platform where you initially made the purchase.
14. Can older and newer generation consoles crossplay together?
In general, last-gen consoles (PS4, Xbox One) can play together and newer-gen consoles (PS5, Xbox Series X/S) can play together. PC is often grouped in with the newer generation of consoles for crossplay.
15. Is a PS5 cross-gen bundle only playable on the PS5?
The cross-gen bundle contains both PS4 and PS5 versions. The PS5 version is “only playable on PS5”. However, the PS4 version can be played on the PS4.
Conclusion
Cross-gen bundle upgrades offer a flexible and value-driven solution for gamers navigating the transition between console generations. They ensure players can enjoy their games whether they are sticking with the previous-gen console or upgrading to the latest hardware without additional purchases. With enhanced visuals, performance improvements, and the convenience of save data transfers, these bundles have become a standard way to ease the transition between console generations. By understanding the nuances of cross-gen bundles, players can make informed decisions that best fit their gaming habits and budget.