If you've recently upgraded to a PlayStation 5 or are considering making the switch, one of the first questions you might have is: Can I play my PS4 games on a PS5? The good news is yes, you can.
Sony designed the PS5 with backward compatibility, meaning you don’t have to leave your beloved PS4 games behind.
In fact, the majority of PS4 titles work seamlessly on the PS5, and some even perform better thanks to enhanced hardware.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about playing PS4 games on a PS5, including digital and physical game compatibility, performance upgrades, save transfers, and more.
PS5 Backward Compatibility: The Basics
The PlayStation 5 is backward compatible with almost all PS4 games. Whether you have physical discs or digital versions, you can enjoy your existing library without any extra purchases or modifications.
Which PS4 Games Are Compatible?
Sony has confirmed that over 4,000 PS4 games are playable on the PS5.
That means you can insert a PS4 disc into your PS5 or re-download your purchased digital games from the PlayStation Store.
While a handful of PS4 games might have minor compatibility issues, the majority run smoothly.
However, if you have a PS5 Digital Edition (which lacks a disc drive), you’ll only be able to play digital PS4 games, discs won’t work.
How to Play PS4 Games on a PS5
There are three main ways to play PS4 games on your PS5:
Physical Discs (Standard PS5 Only)
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Insert your PS4 game disc into the PS5.
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The game will install followed by an update, and you can start playing.
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Keep the disc in the console whenever you want to play.
Digital Games
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Log into your PS5 with the same PlayStation account you used on your PS4.
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Navigate to your Game Library and find your purchased PS4 titles.
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Download and install the game, then start playing.
PS Remote Play
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If you want to play a PS4 game that’s installed on your old console, you can stream it to your PS5 using PS Remote Play.
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Both consoles need to be connected to the internet for this feature to work.
What is Game Boost?
Game Boost on PS5 is a feature that enhances select PS4 titles, improving their performance by making them run smoother and faster.
Many PS4 games that originally ran at 30 FPS can now reach 60 FPS or higher, providing a more fluid gameplay experience.
Some of the most notable games that benefit from Game Boost include Ghost of Tsushima, which receives a 60 FPS boost, God of War, with an enhanced performance mode, Days Gone, with smoother gameplay, and The Last of Us Part II, which supports a higher frame rate mode.
Can You Continue Your Saved Progress on PS5?
Yes. You don’t have to start from scratch when switching to a PS5. You can transfer your PS4 game saves in three ways:
Cloud Saves (Best for PS Plus Subscribers)
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If you have PlayStation Plus, your saves are backed up to the cloud.
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Simply log in to your PS5 and download your saved progress.
USB Drive Transfer
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Copy your PS4 saves onto a USB drive.
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Plug the USB into your PS5 and transfer the saves.
Direct Transfer from PS4 to PS5
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Connect your PS4 and PS5 to the same Wi-Fi network.
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Use the Data Transfer feature in the PS5 settings to migrate your saves.
Note: Some PS4 games don’t support save transfers, so check with the game’s developer.
Can You Play PSVR Games on PS5?
Yes! If you have a PlayStation VR headset, you can use it on your PS5 to play compatible PSVR games. However, you’ll need a PS Camera Adapter, which Sony provides for free to PSVR owners.
FAQs: Everything You Need to Know
Can I play PS4 disc games on a PS5 Digital Edition?
No, the PS5 Digital Edition does not support discs. If you have a PS4 game on disc, you need the PS5 Standard Edition to play it.
Are all PS4 games playable on PS5?
Most PS4 games work on PS5, but a few have compatibility issues. Sony has an updated list of non-compatible games on their website.
Does PS5 enhance all PS4 games?
Not all, but many! Some games get a performance boost or free next-gen upgrades. Others simply run as they did on the PS4.
Can I use a PS4 controller on PS5?
Yes, but only for playing PS4 games. The DualShock 4 is not compatible with PS5 games, you’ll need a DualSense controller for those.
Do I need to rebuy my PS4 games for PS5?
No. If you own the digital version, you can download it to your PS5 for free. If you have a disc, you can play it on the Standard Edition PS5.
Takeaway: Should You Play PS4 Games on a PS5?
Obviously. The PS5’s backward compatibility makes it easy to continue enjoying your PS4 library without any extra hassle.
Plus, with features like Game Boost, save transfers, and PS Plus Collection, you can experience your favorite PS4 titles in a whole new way.
Also Read: A Complete Guide to Connecting Your PS5 Controller
