Understanding PS5 Backward Compatibility: Can I Play My Old Games?


Hello, PlayStation fans! I’ve noticed a hot topic popping up among readers, and that’s PlayStation 5 (PS5) backward compatibility.

Are you unsure about which PlayStation 4 (PS4) games you can play on your PS5 or how to transfer them? Let’s clear up the confusion and walk you through the process.

1. PS5 Backward Compatibility: What Is It?

Backward compatibility refers to the ability of a system, like the PS5, to play games from previous console generations—in this case, the PS4.

So, if you’ve upgraded from the PS4 to the PS5, you can still play the vast majority of your PS4 games on your new console.

2. Which PS4 Games Can I Play on PS5?

According to Sony, the PS5 is backward compatible with almost all PS4 games. That means you can continue your adventures in ‘The Last of Us Part II’ or enjoy ‘God of War’ on your new console.

There are a few exceptions, though, so it’s best to check the official PlayStation website for a list of games that aren’t compatible.

3. How Can I Play PS4 Games on PS5?

There are a couple of ways you can play your PS4 games on your PS5. If you have a PS4 game disc, simply insert it into your PS5 (provided it’s not the Digital Edition). The game may undergo some updates before you can play.

If you have digital PS4 games, you can download them directly to your PS5 from your game library. Just sign into your PS5 with the same account you used on your PS4, and your games should be available in your library.

4. Can I Transfer My Saved PS4 Game Data to PS5?

You can transfer your saved game data from your PS4 to your PS5 through a LAN cable, Wi-Fi, or with an external storage device.

Also, if you have a PlayStation Plus membership, you can upload your saved game data to cloud storage and download it directly to your PS5.

5. Can PS4 Games Benefit from PS5’s Enhanced Performance?

PS4 games can indeed benefit from the PS5’s enhanced performance.

Thanks to something Sony calls “Game Boost,” some PS4 games may see improved loading speeds and graphical upgrades when played on the PS5. However, the extent of these enhancements may vary from game to game.

I hope this guide has clarified your queries about PS5’s backward compatibility. It’s a fantastic feature that lets you enjoy your favorite PS4 games on your new console, often with improved performance.

Speaking of a boost in performance: I recently published another article sharing how to increase PS5 download speeds even further here on GizbuyerGuide.com.

Please note: While I strive to provide accurate information, I encourage you to always check the official PlayStation website for the most recent updates and detailed instructions.

(Edit: This post will be updated as new information on backward compatibility becomes available or if Sony introduces changes to the process.)

John Hammer

Hi i'm John Hammer, Founder and Author of Gizbuyer Guide. Ever since the original Xbox, PlayStation, and iPhone I've purchased and worked on all kinds of consumer tech products, gaming gadgets and operating system softwares. To this day my curiosity has never left, and my aim is to guide and share my knowledge on technology as I continue to experience the latest of the consumer electronics industry.

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