Upgrading from PS4 to PS5? Yes, the PS5 can play almost all PS4 games through robust backward compatibility, breathing new life into your existing library with faster loads and smoother performance. For PS4 owners with stacks of discs or digital collections, this feature preserves thousands of hours invested, letting you revisit favorites like God of War or The Last of Us Part II without repurchase. You’ll learn compatibility details, disc/digital play, boosts, saves, controllers, limitations, and myths empowering confident upgrades in 2026.
Can PS5 Play PS4 Games?
Yes, the PS5 supports over 99% of the 4,000+ PS4 games via software emulation, including discs on disc-drive models and digital titles from your library. Exceptions are rare (~10-20 obscure titles); most run flawlessly with Game Boost perks like 60fps stability.
How PS5 Backward Compatibility Works
PS5’s backward compatibility uses software emulation, translating PS4 code to run on PS5 hardware leveraging the shared AMD architecture for near-native speeds. Unlike Xbox’s hardware emulation, it’s lighter, enabling 4,000+ titles without per-game patches. PS4 games launch from the same menu as PS5 natives, auto-installing ~50GB bases. Game Boost auto-applies: faster SSD loads (e.g., Bloodborne drops from 80s to 5s), stabilized FPS, and resolution bumps. Why most work: PS5’s CPU/GPU overkill handles PS4 demands effortlessly.
Which PS4 Games Work on PS5?
Nearly all Sony confirms the “overwhelming majority” playable, with ~99% compatibility. Check via PS Store (search title > “PS5” tag) or playstation.com/en-us/support/games/ps5-backward-compatibility-games/. Exceptions (mostly 2020 shovelware): DWVR, Afro Samurai 2, TT Isle of Man, We Sing, Just Deal With It!, Robinson: The Journey, Shadwen, Joe’s Diner, Hitman Go: Definitive Edition, Mushroom Wars. No major AAA exclusions; Ubisoft’s early list (e.g., some Assassin’s Creed) resolved via patches.
Playing PS4 Disc Games on PS5
Insert PS4 discs into PS5 Standard/Disc Edition they install (~30-90 mins) and play indefinitely (disc required). PS5 Digital Edition skips discs entirely buy digital equivalents. Performance: Auto Game Boost; e.g., Ghost of Tsushima hits 60fps checkerboard 4K. Updates optional for extras.
Playing Digital PS4 Games on PS5
Log into your PSN account PS4 titles appear in “Your Library” > Download. Same account required; family shares work. Cloud saves (PS Plus) sync automatically USB backups transferable. Seamless: Launch like PS5 games.
PS4 Game Performance on PS5
Game Boost transforms PS4 titles: SSD slashes loads (Spider-Man: 37s to 2s), unlocked FPS stabilizes (e.g., Bloodborne 30fps locked), resolutions upscale (1080p to dynamic 4K). Examples: Days Gone 60fps, Godfall 4K/60. Monitor boosts with how to turn on an FPS counter in games.
PS4 Saves, Trophies & Progression
Cloud saves (PS Plus) auto-transfer; USB: Copy from PS4 > Paste to PS5. Trophies: PS4 lists stay separate from PS5 versions earn dual sets. Progression carries via saves.
PS4 Accessories & Controllers on PS5
DualShock 4 works wired/wireless for PS4 games (USB/Bluetooth pair). PS5 DualSense unsupported for PS4 titles (haptics ignored). Peripherals: Most (racing wheels) compatible; camera/mics vary.
Limitations of PS5 Backward Compatibility
Minor issues: Rare glitches (e.g., audio pops in patched titles), no PS5 features (Ray Tracing), DualSense limits. Not 100%: Peripheral-dependent exclusions. Patches fix most.
PS5 vs PS4 Versions of the Same Game
PS5 upgrades (free/paid) add 4K/60/120fps, RT: Horizon Forbidden West (free), Spider-Man 2 (native PS5). PS4 versions suffice boosted; upgrades optional.
Common Myths About PS5 Playing PS4 Games
Myth: “No discs on Digital PS5” True, needs drive. “All look 4K/60” Boost varies. “Trophies lost” Separate lists. “Controllers incompatible” DS4 works fine.
Conclusion
PS5’s backward compatibility unlocks your PS4 legacy with boosts, making upgrades worthwhile. Expect ongoing patches your library evolves. Dive in confidently.
FAQs
Can PS5 play all PS4 games?
Nearly all (99%+); ~10 exceptions.
Do PS4 discs work on PS5 Digital Edition?
No, disc drive required.
Do PS4 games look better on PS5?
Yes, faster loads, stable FPS via Game Boost.
Can you use PS4 controllers on PS5?
Yes, for PS4 games.
Do PS4 trophies transfer?
No, separate lists; saves carry progress.
