Can You Play PS4 Games on PS5? Everything You Need to Know
Introduction: Can You Play PS4 Games on PS5? Yes, and Here’s How
Can you play PS4 games on PS5? This is one of the most frequently asked questions by gamers upgrading from the PlayStation 4 to Sony’s next-gen console. The short answer is yes—but with a few important details and limitations to understand. The PlayStation 5 offers backward compatibility with most PS4 titles, allowing players to enjoy their existing library without starting over. However, not all games are created equal, and some older titles may behave differently on the newer hardware.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about playing PS4 games on a PS5, from performance upgrades to compatibility issues, and how to transfer your save data properly.
What Is Backward Compatibility?
Backward compatibility refers to a console’s ability to run games from its predecessor. In this case, it means playing PS4 games on the PS5 without needing to repurchase them or download special versions. Sony made backward compatibility a core feature of the PS5, which is great news for those with an extensive PS4 library.
The feature works seamlessly for the majority of games, but there are still some key considerations worth exploring.
Which PS4 Games Can You Play on PS5?
Most PS4 games—more than 4,000 titles—are fully playable on the PlayStation 5. This includes both physical discs and digital downloads. Whether you’re a fan of open-world epics like Ghost of Tsushima, multiplayer hits like Call of Duty: Warzone, or indie gems like Hollow Knight, chances are high that your game will work.
Sony has only listed a small number of PS4 games that are not compatible with the PS5, such as:
- Afro Samurai 2: Revenge of Kuma Volume One
- Hitman Go: Definitive Edition
- Just Deal With It!
- Robinson: The Journey
- Shadwen
- We Sing
If your favorite game isn’t on that list, it should run just fine.
Can You Play PS4 Game Discs on PS5?
If you own the standard PS5 with a disc drive, you can insert your PS4 game discs and start playing—no extra steps required. The system will install the game and apply any available updates. However, the PS5 Digital Edition lacks a disc drive, so disc-based PS4 games are not playable on that model.
This means your physical collection will only be usable if you opt for the disc version of the PS5. For gamers with a large physical PS4 library, that could be a dealbreaker.
What About Digital PS4 Games?
Digital games you purchased on the PlayStation Store for PS4 are tied to your PSN (PlayStation Network) account. Once you sign in to your PS5 with the same account, your digital library will appear automatically. From there, you can redownload and install any of your previously purchased PS4 titles.
This process is smooth and user-friendly, making it easy to pick up where you left off.
Game Saves: Can You Transfer Your PS4 Progress?
Yes, you can transfer your saved data from PS4 to PS5 using several methods:
- Cloud Saves: If you have PlayStation Plus, your saves are automatically backed up to the cloud. Simply download them on your PS5.
- LAN/Wi-Fi Transfer: You can connect your PS4 and PS5 on the same network and transfer data directly.
- External Storage: Copy your saves onto a USB drive from your PS4 and move them to your PS5.
It’s important to note that not all PS4 games support cross-save functionality with their PS5 versions. For example, Spider-Man saves do not transfer from PS4 to the PS5 remastered version without a specific export feature.
Enhanced Performance on PS5: What Is Game Boost?
When you play PS4 games on PS5, many of them benefit from Game Boost, a feature that enhances performance without developers needing to release a specific patch. This can result in:
- Faster load times
- Higher and more stable frame rates
- Improved resolution and textures (in some cases)
For instance, God of War runs at a buttery smooth 60 FPS on PS5, compared to 30 FPS on PS4. Days Gone also benefits from Game Boost, delivering enhanced visual fidelity and load times.
While not every game gets a noticeable boost, many high-profile titles run better on the PS5 without any extra work required.
Using External Hard Drives for PS4 Games on PS5
Can you play PS4 games on PS5 using an external hard drive? Yes—and it’s a smart way to save space on the PS5’s limited internal storage.
You can:
- Play PS4 games directly from an external HDD or SSD
- Transfer installed PS4 games from the PS5 internal drive to the external drive to free up space
- Use the same external drive from your PS4 without reformatting it (just plug and play)
However, PS5 native games cannot be played directly from an external drive—they must be stored and played from the internal SSD or an officially supported NVMe SSD expansion.
Can You Use PS4 Controllers on PS5?
The DualShock 4 (PS4 controller) can be used on a PS5, but only for playing PS4 games. You cannot use a PS4 controller to play PS5-exclusive games.
This limitation ensures players use the new DualSense controller, which includes advanced haptics and adaptive triggers designed for the PS5 experience.
If you’re replaying a multiplayer PS4 game on your PS5, it’s great news—you don’t need to buy an extra controller.
PS Plus Collection and PS4 Games on PS5
Sony introduced the PlayStation Plus Collection, a curated list of top-tier PS4 games available at no additional cost to PS Plus subscribers on PS5. This includes classics like:
- Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End
- The Last of Us Remastered
- Bloodborne
- Ratchet & Clank
This is a fantastic way for new PS5 owners to catch up on legendary PS4 titles they may have missed.
Can You Upgrade PS4 Games to PS5 Versions?
Many developers offer free or discounted upgrades from PS4 to PS5 versions of their games. These upgrades often include better graphics, smoother performance, and DualSense support. Some games offering free upgrades include:
- Cyberpunk 2077
- Assassin’s Creed Valhalla
- Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade
- Resident Evil Village
To upgrade, you usually insert the PS4 disc or own the digital version and follow on-screen instructions to claim the PS5 upgrade. Just remember that if you own a disc version, you’ll need the standard PS5 console (with disc drive) to initiate the upgrade.
Differences Between PS4 and PS5 Game Versions
While you can play PS4 games on PS5, it’s crucial to differentiate between backward compatibility and native PS5 versions.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | PS4 Game on PS5 | Native PS5 Game |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | Often enhanced (Game Boost) | Optimized for PS5 hardware |
| Graphics | PS4-quality (with boost) | Higher resolution, ray tracing |
| Load Times | Faster than PS4 | Lightning-fast via SSD |
| DualSense Features | Limited or none | Full support (haptics, triggers) |
| Save Transfers | Usually compatible | Sometimes requires export |
Understanding the difference helps you make informed choices when purchasing or upgrading games.
Limitations to Be Aware Of
Even though the answer to “can you play PS4 games on PS5” is yes for the most part, there are still some limitations:
- Not all games benefit from Game Boost
- A few PS4 games are incompatible
- Save transfers can be tricky between PS4 and PS5 versions
- DualShock 4 can’t be used for PS5 games
These limitations are minor for most users but worth keeping in mind.
Tips for the Best Experience When Playing PS4 Games on PS5
To get the most out of playing PS4 games on PS5:
- Keep your PS5 firmware updated for best compatibility
- Use external storage to save SSD space
- Look for PS5 upgrade paths for enhanced versions
- Take advantage of Game Boost for smoother gameplay
- Use DualShock 4 for familiar controls with PS4 games
These steps can enhance your transition from PS4 to PS5 without sacrificing your gaming experience.
Final Thoughts: Can You Play PS4 Games on PS5?
So, can you play PS4 games on PS5? Absolutely. Sony has done an excellent job making sure your existing PS4 library still matters on the new console. With broad compatibility, enhanced performance, and convenient save transfers, the transition feels almost seamless.
While there are minor exceptions and occasional upgrade caveats, the overall experience is smooth, powerful, and player-friendly. Whether you’re revisiting old favorites or discovering PS4 classics for the first time, the PS5 is more than ready to deliver.
