Can You Play PS4 Games on PS5?
Complete Compatibility Guide
If you’re considering upgrading to a PlayStation 5 but worried about your PS4 game library, we have good news! The PS5 offers extensive backward compatibility, allowing you to enjoy most of your favorite PS4 titles on the new console.
Yes, you can play PS4 games on PS5. sony confirmed that over 4,000 PS4 games work on PS5, so you don’t need to worry about losing your favorite titles when upgrading.
PS4 Games on PS5: Compatibility Overview
Physical PS4 Discs
✓ Supported on PS5 Disc Edition
Digital PS4 Games
✓ Supported on both PS5 models
PS4 Controllers
✓ Works for PS4 games only
Trophies & Progress
✓ Carries over from PS4 to PS5
Can You Play PS4 Games on PS5 Disc?
If you bought the PS5 Disc Edition, you can easily insert your PS4 disc into the console. The PS5 will recognize it and allow you to install and play the game.
Insert your PS4 disc
Place your PS4 game disc into the PS5 console
Install game data
The system will automatically install the game data
Start playing
Launch the game and enjoy (updates may be required)
Important Note
If you buy the PS5 Digital Edition, you cannot use physical PS4 discs, as there’s no disc drive. You’ll need to repurchase games digitally or subscribe to PS Plus.
Can You Play PS4 Games on PS5 Digital?
Yes, but only digital PS4 games that you purchased through the PlayStation Store. You can log in to your PSN account on PS5 and re-download your games.
Example: If you purchased Spider-Man digitally on PS4, you can download it again on your PS5 Digital Edition at no extra cost.
Can You Play PS4 Games on PS5 with PS5 Controller?
Yes, you can. All PS4 games that run on PS5 can be played with the DualSense controller (PS5 controller).
However, PS4 controllers (DualShock 4) only work on PS4 games, not PS5-exclusive titles.
Example: You can play The Last of Us Part II on PS5 using the DualSense controller, but you cannot use DualShock 4 on a PS5-only title like Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart.
Can You Play PS4 Games on PS5 Slim and PS5 Pro?
PS5 Slim
Works the same as the standard PS5—supports both disc and digital backward compatibility.
PS5 Pro (Upcoming)
Expected to offer even better performance and graphics upgrades while still supporting PS4 games.
Can You Play PS4 Games on PS5 PS Plus?
Yes. PS Plus membership allows you to access PS4 games in your subscription on PS5.
- PS Plus Essential, Extra, and Premium plans include hundreds of PS4 games playable on PS5.
- With PS Plus Cloud Streaming, you don’t even need to download them.
Can You Play PS3 Games on PS5?
No, PS5 does not support PS3 discs. However, you can play some PS3 games through PS Plus Premium cloud streaming.
What PS4 Games Work on PS5?
Almost all PS4 games work, including top titles like:
What PS4 Games Don’t Work on PS5?
Sony listed only a few PS4 games that don’t run on PS5. Some examples include:
- Hitman Go: Definitive Edition
- Just Deal With It!
- Shadow Complex Remastered
Check Compatibility
Check Sony’s official backward compatibility page for the latest list of incompatible games.
Do PS4 Controllers Work on PS5?
Yes, but with limitations:
- DualShock 4 works on PS5 for PS4 games only.
- For PS5 games, you must use the DualSense controller.
How to Test Gamepad Controller (PS4 & PS5)
If you want to ensure your PS4 or PS5 controller works properly, you can use an online tool like Gamepad Tester Online .
With a gamepad tester, you can:
Analog Sticks
Check if analog sticks are responsive
Vibration
Test vibration functions
Button Inputs
Verify button inputs (L1, R1, L2, R2, etc.)
Touchpad & Triggers
Confirm touchpad and adaptive triggers on PS5 controllers
Also, explore external tools like Gamepad Tester for more advanced testing options.
Common Questions About PS4 to PS5 Game Compatibility
Insert your PS4 disc (Disc Edition) or download digital purchases from your PSN library.
It only works for PS4 titles. For PS5 games, use DualSense.
Make sure you’re logged into the same PSN account used to purchase/download it.
Many PS4 games benefit from improved performance, faster load times, and better resolution on PS5.
Final Thoughts
The PlayStation 5’s backward compatibility with PS4 games is one of its strongest features, allowing gamers to transition smoothly to the new console while maintaining access to their existing library. Whether you own physical discs or digital games, most of your PS4 collection will work on PS5.
With enhanced performance for many titles and the ability to use both DualShock 4 and DualSense controllers (depending on the game), the PS5 offers a flexible and future-proof gaming experience.