Key Takeaways
- The PlayStation 5 is fully backward compatible with PS4 games and can also play some PS3, PS2, and PS1 games through PlayStation Plus.
- Backward compatibility is done through software emulation, and some games may not work properly or have bugs.
- PS4 games can be played on the PS5 using the DualSense controller, DualShock 4, or third-party controllers, but the DualShock cannot be used to play PS5 games.
Unlike some other game consoles, the PlayStation 5 is fully backward compatible with games from the last generation. That means you can play the vast majority of PS4 games, as well as PS3, PS2 and even PS1 games through PlayStation Plus. And, in some cases, you even get enhanced frame rates, faster loading times and other improvements.
Here is everything you need to know about PS5 backward compatibility, which PS4 games work on the system, and a list of classic games to try.
PlayStation 5
The PlayStation 5 is a powerhouse of a games console. It knocks out 4K HDR graphics and up to 120 frames per second play on a compatible TV. There are thousands of games available for it already, and PS4 games will work seamlessly – sometimes with enhancements.
How does backward compatibility on PS5 work?
When a new console is developed, designers must carefully balance performance and price. Every piece of silicon they include has to justify its cost, and one thing that sometimes doesn’t make the cut is the ability to play older games from previous console generations. Fortunately, the PlayStation 5 is backward compatible with almost every PS4 game available.
Sony has realized the tremendous value in having a large library of games, even if they aren’t graphically up to snuff for 2024.
Emulation
Both the standard PS5 and Digital Edition are capable of playing PS4 games, but you can only play disc titles on the former machine. As with the Xbox Series X and S, backward compatibility is done through software emulation, which means some features and games may not work or exhibit some bugs. However, you can also use the PS5’s Game Boost feature on some PS4 titles to play them at a smoother frame rate.
Controller support
PS4 games can be played using the DualSense controller that comes with the PS5, a DualShock 4 controller or third-party equivalent. It’s worth noting that the DualShock cannot be used to play PS5 games.
How to connect Bluetooth headphones to your PS5
Sony doesn’t make the process as easy as it should.
Pocket-lint
Can I play PSVR games on PS5?
Yes. Now that the PlayStation VR2 is available, you are advised to pick one up if you want to pay virtual reality games on a PlayStation 5. However, those who already own a first-gen PlayStation VR headset will be pleased to learn that it is fully compatible with the PS5. It will only work with the PS Camera though, which needs an adapter. It will not work with the PS5’s own HD Camera accessory.
The PlayStation Move controllers and PSVR Aim Controller will work with PSVR games on PS5. You can also use a DualShock 4.
Original PSVR games will not work with a PSVR2, nor vice versa.
Pocket-lint
Do PS4 discs work on the PS5?
Yes. If you have the standard edition PlayStation 5, you can insert any PS4 game you have on disc into your console (except for those on the known “not working” list below), and it will install and run. You will need to insert the disc each time you wish to play the game.
If you have the Digital Edition and/or own digital download versions of PS4 games, you need to head to your Games library on the PS5 home screen. From there, you should be able to see all compatible games available for download. You can also transfer your games from a PS4 or PS4 Pro to the PS5 with an external USB hard drive or Wi-Fi to avoid having to download them again.
It is also worth noting that some PS4 games in your library will be eligible for a free upgrade to their PS5 editions. There will be an upgrade option on the game hub for each supported title, and you can tell what type is installed by checking the logo next to it on your home screen before you play it.
When you buy a new game on PS5 that has a PS4 version available, the PS5 version will be offered as the primary install, so there’s no need to worry in that case.
How to fix stick drift on your PS5 controller
Stick drift is a common problem with the PS5’s DualSense controller. Here are some things you can do to fix it.
Will my save games be transferred?
Yes. As well as the games themselves, you can transfer your save data from a PS4 to the PS5 and carry on playing from where you left off. In many cases, PS4 cloud saves can be downloaded to a PS5 (for PS Plus members). However, that’s not an option for every title.
Pocket-lint
PS5 backward compatible games list
With more than 4,000 PS4 games able to be played on PS5, we can’t list them all here. Instead, it’s easier to list the ones known not to work.
PS4 games confirmed as not working on PS5 (as of February 2024):
There are also some PS4 games that may exhibit some issues or lack features when played on a PS5. You will see this message attached to a related game on its PlayStation Store listing: “When playing on PS5, this game may exhibit errors or unexpected behavior and some features available on PS4 may be absent.”
PlayStation Plus: Games list, price, and different tiers explained
PlayStation Plus is Sony’s subscription service for online play and more. There are three tiers of membership, and we’ve got the details on each.
What about PS3, PS2, and original PlayStation games?
A large selection of legacy PlayStation games are available as part of a PlayStation Plus Premium subscription. It provides access to a classic catalog of PSOne, PS2, PS3 and even PSP games to play via Sony’s own cloud gaming service. It costs $17.99 / £13.49 / €16.99 per month, $49.99 / £39.99 / €49.99 for 3 months, or $119.99 / £99.99 / €119.99 for a year. You save a lot by paying for a year up front.
Tokyo Jungle
Which backward compatible games should you play on PS5?
Need a place to start?
Here’s our list of the best older games you should download and play on your brand new console:
Trending Products
