Can You Play PS4 Games on PS5? 7 Shocking Truths Revealed

Play PS4 Games on PS5

Can you play PS4 games on PS5? The answer is a resounding yes – but with some game-changing perks and a few hidden limitations. With over 4,000 PS4 titles compatible on Sony's next-gen console, your old library isn't just playable – it often runs better thanks to Game Boost technology.

But before you dust off those discs, you need to know:
✔ Exactly how PS4 games work on PS5 (disc vs. digital vs. cloud)
✔ Which games get free PS5 upgrades (and which cost extra)
✔ The secret performance boost most gamers miss
✔ Critical limitations (including 10 incompatible games)

Let’s dive in—your PS4 backlog just got a next-gen glow-up.

1. Backward Compatibility: Sony’s Best PS5 Feature?

Unlike the PS3 era, Sony nailed backward compatibility this time. 99% of PS4 games work on PS5, including:

• Physical discs (if you own the standard PS5)

• Digital purchases (automatically appear in your library)

• PS Plus Premium streams (no downloads needed)

Pro Tip: Use Game Boost for higher FPS, faster loads, and better resolution in supported titles like Ghost of Tsushima and God of War.

2. How to Play PS4 Games on PS5 (3 Easy Ways)

A. Digital Games

1. Log into your PSN account on PS5.

2. Go to Game Library > PS4 Collection.

3. Download and play—no extra cost.

B. Physical Discs

• Standard PS5: Insert the disc and install (requires constant disc verification).

• PS5 Digital Edition: No disc drive = no play. (Sorry!)

C. Cloud Streaming (PS Plus Premium)

Stream select PS4 games without downloading—ideal for saving SSD space.

3. PS4 Games That Run BETTER on PS5

Thanks to the PS5’s Game Boost, some PS4 titles get unlocked framerates, 60 FPS, and near-instant loads:

Note: Not all games get upgrades—check developer patches.

4. Free PS5 Upgrades vs. Paid: Know the Difference

Some PS4 games offer free next-gen upgrades, while others charge extra:

✅ Free Upgrades:

• Assassin’s Creed Valhalla

• Cyberpunk 2077

• Final Fantasy VII Remake

❌ Paid Upgrades:

• Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War ($10)

• Death Stranding: Director’s Cut (discount for owners)

Always check the PlayStation Store for upgrade eligibility!

5. PS5’s Hidden Limitations (Don’t Get Caught!)

⚠ PS5 Digital Edition = No disc support (obvious but worth repeating).
⚠ 10 PS4 games don’t work (e.g., Afro Samurai 2, Hitman Go).
⚠ DualShock 4 only works for PS4 games—not PS5 titles.
⚠ PSVR requires a free adapter (request from Sony).

6. Pro Tips for the Best Experience

🔹 Use an external SSD to store PS4 games (free up PS5 storage).
🔹 Rebuild the database in Safe Mode if games feel sluggish.
🔹 Enable Game Boost in settings for supported titles.

FAQ: Quick Answers to Burning Questions

Yes! Transfer via:

• Cloud saves (PS Plus)

• USB drive

• Direct console transfer

(Some games require manual uploads—check settings!)

Yes! All trophies sync automatically with your PSN account.

Absolutely! Smoother framerates, faster loads, and crisper visuals make old games feel new.

Final Verdict: Should You Keep Your PS4 Games?

✅ YES—if you own a standard PS5. Your library gets a second life with Game Boost and upgrades.
❌ Maybe—if you have a PS5 Digital Edition (no discs = rebuy digital).

Bottom line: The PS5 is the ultimate home for PS4 games—just know the quirks. Now, go replay The Witcher 3 in buttery 60 FPS! 🚀