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PS4 Backward Compatibility on PS5: How It Works, How to Transfer Games, and More

October 9, 2020
Retrocompatibilidad PS5
Written by: Chris Watson
October 09, 2020
Updated on October 09, 2020
Lead Game DeveloperChris Watson
Chris Watson is a gaming expert and writer. He has loved video games since childhood and has been writing about them for over 15 years. Chris has worked for major gaming magazines where he reviewed new games and wrote strategy guides. He started his own gaming website to share insider tips and in-depth commentary about his favorite games. When he's not gaming or writing, Chris enjoys travel and hiking. His passion is helping other gamers master new games.
Expertises: Game Development, Unity and Unreal Engine, C# and C++ Programming, Interactive Storytelling, Esports and Streaming

Through the PlayStation support page, the Japanese company has revealed all the details about this functionality.

That PlayStation 5 is backwards compatible with PlayStation 4 games is something that Sony Interactive Entertainment confirmed some time ago, but until now it had hardly been detailed how this feature could be accessed. After some confusing information, the Japanese reported that practically their entire catalog would work on their next-generation console. Now, thanks to the support page of the console, we have learned the ins and outs of the system.

Some PS4 games will benefit from the boost mode, which will allow these titles to move on PS4 with an improved framerate. However, some functionality available in the original product may not be available when using backward compatibility. As they are not optimized, it is also possible that some unexpected errors appear. Sony recommends keeping the PlayStation 5 console properly updated for the optimal experience.

To play PS4 games on PS5 using the disc:

  • Insert the PS4 disc. You may need to download an update.
  • Select the game hub from the main games page.
  • You will have to keep the disc inside each time you play the title

    • Transfer digital games from PS4 to PS5

  • You can transfer digital games and saved games from PS4 to PS5 using the WIFI data transfer function.
  • You also have the opportunity to access PS4 games on PS5 directly from an extra storage drive.

    • How to install a PS4 digital game on PS5

  • Select the game from your digital library.
  • Choose the game you want to play.
  • If you haven’t downloaded it yet, select Download.
  • The game will install automatically. Depending on the game, you will have the possibility to copy and play a portion of the title directly.

    • Games that only work on PS4

    • DWVR
    • Afro Samurai 2 Revenge of Kuma Volume One
    • TT Isle of Man – Ride on the Edge 2
    • Just Deal With It!
    • Shadow Complex Remastered
    • Robinson: The Journey
    • We sing
    • Hitman Go: Definitive Edition
    • Shadwen
    • Joe’s Diner

    As for the compatible controllers, the DualSense and the DualShock 4 will work with PlayStation 4 video games, although PlayStation recommends using the latter to avoid problems (the Share button cannot be used, so players interested in that functionality should use the PS5 controller). In addition, licensed controllers and peripherals such as arcade sticks or steering wheels that already worked on Sony’s current console will also be compatible.

    PlayStation 5 will go on sale on November 19.

    About author

    Chris Watson is a gaming expert and writer. He has loved video games since childhood and has been writing about them for over 15 years. Chris has worked for major gaming magazines where he reviewed new games and wrote strategy guides. He started his own gaming website to share insider tips and in-depth commentary about his favorite games. When he's not gaming or writing, Chris enjoys travel and hiking. His passion is helping other gamers master new games.
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