If you're moving from a PS4 to a PS5, or buying a PS5 for someone who already owns PS4 games, the good news is that most of those games still work. Here's what carries over, what doesn't, and what to check before you buy.
Yes, a PS5 plays almost all PS4 games
Sony built the PS5 to be backward compatible, so almost every PS4 game runs on it, whether you own it on disc or digitally. A small number of older titles aren't supported, so if a particular game matters to you, search for it on PlayStation's website before you buy.
Disc or digital: this is the important part
- PS5 with a disc drive: put a PS4 disc in and it plays. The disc has to stay in the drive while you play, just like on a PS4.
- PS5 Digital Edition: it has no disc drive, so it can't read PS4 discs unless you add Sony's separate disc drive. Digital PS4 games you already own on your PlayStation account can be downloaded again.
If you have a shelf of PS4 discs, the PlayStation 5 Disc Edition is the simple choice.
Some PS4 games have a PS5 upgrade
A number of PS4 games offer an upgrade to their PS5 version, sometimes free. Whether an upgrade exists, and what it costs, depends on the game, so check its page on the PlayStation Store. With a disc copy, you need a PS5 with a disc drive and the disc inserted to claim or play a disc-based upgrade.
Controllers and saves
- PS4 controllers work with PS4 games on a PS5, but not with PS5 games. The PS5's own DualSense controller works with both.
- Your saves can come with you. If you have PlayStation Plus, PS4 saves stored in the cloud can be downloaded on the PS5. Many games also let you copy saves across with a USB drive.
PS4 games worth picking up
PS4 games are an affordable way to build a PS5 library. A few we stock:
- Uncharted 4: A Thief's End for a story-driven adventure.
- LEGO Jurassic World and LEGO The Incredibles for local co-op with kids.
- Devil May Cry 5 for fast action.
- Outriders if you want co-op with friends.
- Immortals Fenyx Rising for an open-world adventure.
See everything in Gaming.
Quick checklist
- Own PS4 discs? Choose a PS5 with a disc drive.
- Check any must-have game on PlayStation's backward compatibility list.
- Look up PS5 upgrades on the PlayStation Store before buying a newer version.
- Move your saves with PlayStation Plus cloud storage or a USB drive.
Not sure which console or game suits you? WhatsApp us on +27 64 553 1661 and a real person will help.