just get the $399 version. . .
Sony PlayStation 4 games, backwards compatibility PS5 consoles explained ahead of upcoming launch. When Sony first broke down information for their digital and deluxe version, they didn’t properly explain backwards compatibility for either console. This led to many, including us, under the belief that you needed the physical version in order to play PS4 games.
While this was believed by many major media sites as well, Sony took time to clarify that you won’t need to the $499 physical version to play backwards titles. This means you’ll only need to purchase the $399 version of the console in a few weeks, like we intend to do.
Take a look at the breakdown below.
What is the difference between playing PS4 games on the PS5 Digital Edition console, versus the PS5 console with the Ultra HD Blu-ray disc drive?
The gaming experience on both models will be the same. However, how you access the content to play will differ:
PS5 Digital Edition
You will be able to play digital versions of your compatible PS4 games on the PS5 Digital Edition console. These will be compatible PS4 digital games you have already purchased, or plan to purchase, via PlayStation Store on PS4, PS5, web or PlayStation mobile app. Since there is no disc drive, you won’t be able to play your PS4 disc-based games on the PS5 Digital Edition.
PS5 with Ultra HD Blu-ray disc drive
You can play digital versions of your compatible PS4 games you downloaded from PlayStation Store on PS4, PS5, web or PlayStation mobile app.
You can also use physical PS4 game discs. When you sign in to PS5 with your account for PlayStation Network, you will automatically see your library of played PS4 content through the menu.
What is the PS4 game experience like on PS5?
PS4 titles get even better on PS5. Select PS4 titles will see increased loading speeds on the PS5 console, and will also leverage Game Boost, offering improved or more stable frame rates. Some titles with unlocked frame rates or dynamic resolution up to 4K may see higher fidelity. Additionally, PS4 games will also take advantage of some of PS5’s new UX features, but more to come on that later.
Are games from PlayStation VR backward compatible?
Yes, PlayStation VR games are included among the thousands of PS4 games that are playable on PS5. Please note that playing PS VR games on a PS5 console requires a PS VR headset, DualShock 4 wireless controller or PlayStation Move controller(s), and PS Camera (for PS4), which are sold separately from the PS5 console. Also, the PS5 HD Camera is not compatible with PS VR on PS5. You’ll need to use the PS Camera (for PS4), and the PS Camera adaptor (no purchase required), to use PS VR on PS5.
What about PS4 games on PS Now and PS Plus?
Backward compatible PS4 games included in PS Plus or PS Now will run on PS5.
Can I stream PS4 games on PS5?
Yes, Remote Play from PS4 to PS5 and PS Now streaming are supported. The benefit of streaming is that you can save your storage space on PS5. Please note that PS4 games will not leverage PS5’s Game Boost through streaming.
How do PS4 game transfers and game saves work between the two consoles?
You can transfer digital games, game data, and game saves from a PS4 console to a PS5 console using LAN cables, or by connecting wirelessly (WiFi). If you’ve already stored PS4 games and game data in the external USB storage device connected to your PS4, you can bring them over to PS5 with that external USB storage device. And if you are a PS Plus member, you can also sync PS4 game saves on PS5 through cloud storage.
How will I know which PS4 games aren’t playable?
Games that are only playable on PS4 will be noted on PlayStation Store as playable on “PS4 only.” We have a list of games that are only playable on PS4, along with additional information on backward compatibility here: playstation.com/ps5-backwards-compatibility