Can PS4 Discs Be Played on PS5? Understanding PlayStation Disc Compatibility
If you're wondering whether PS4 game discs work on a PS5, the answer is yes, in most cases! Sony has designed the PlayStation 5 with backward compatibility, meaning that most PS4 games can be played on the newer console. However, there are some limitations and conditions depending on the game format and PS5 model.
1. PS4 Game Disc Compatibility on PS5
- PS5 Standard Edition (with disc drive): ✅ Yes, PS4 physical (disc) games work.
- PS5 Digital Edition (no disc drive): ❌ No, PS4 disc games cannot be played because there is no disc slot.
- Digital PS4 Games: ✅ Yes, they can be downloaded and played on both PS5 models.
👉 Over 99% of PS4 games are compatible with PS5, including both physical (disc) and digital versions.
2. How to Play a PS4 Disc on a PS5
If you have a PS5 Standard Edition (with a disc drive), follow these steps:
- Insert the PS4 game disc into the PS5 console.
- The game will install automatically (it may require an update).
- Play the game as you would on a PS4!
🛑 Important Note:
- The PS5 must have a disc drive—this does not work on the PS5 Digital Edition (which does not have a disc slot).
- You must keep the disc inside the console while playing, even after installation.
3. Do PS4 Discs Benefit from PS5 Hardware?
Yes! Even though it's the same game, PS5 hardware provides better performance for many PS4 titles:
✅ Faster Load Times – Thanks to the PS5’s SSD, loading screens are significantly reduced.
✅ Higher Frame Rates – Some PS4 games get a frame rate boost (e.g., running at 60 FPS instead of 30 FPS).
✅ Improved Graphics – Some games receive dynamic resolution scaling improvements on PS5.
✅ Game Boost Mode – PS5 has a Boost Mode that enhances some older games' performance.
📌 Example: Ghost of Tsushima runs at up to 60 FPS on PS5, compared to 30 FPS on PS4.
4. Are All PS4 Games Compatible on PS5?
❌ No, a small number of PS4 games do not work on PS5. Sony has listed some games that are not compatible. These are mostly less popular or older titles.
🔍 To check game compatibility:
- Visit Sony’s official PS5 backward compatibility list.
5. Can You Upgrade a PS4 Disc Game to a PS5 Version?
Yes! Many PS4 games offer a free or paid upgrade to the PS5 version, but only under certain conditions:
🔹 How to Upgrade a PS4 Disc to a PS5 Version
- Insert the PS4 game disc into your PS5 Standard Edition.
- Go to the game hub and check for a PS5 upgrade option.
- Download the PS5 version (may be free or require an additional fee).
- Keep the disc inside the PS5 whenever you want to play the upgraded version.
📌 Example: Cyberpunk 2077, Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, and FIFA 23 allow free PS5 upgrades if you own the PS4 disc.
🛑 Note: If you have the PS5 Digital Edition, you cannot upgrade a PS4 disc version since there is no disc slot!
6. Can PS3, PS2, or PS1 Discs Work on PS5?
❌ No, the PS5 does NOT support PS3, PS2, or PS1 game discs.
✅ However, some PS3, PS2, and PS1 games are available through PlayStation Plus Premium (cloud streaming or digital downloads).
7. Conclusion: Should You Keep Your PS4 Discs?
✅ Yes! If you own a PS5 Standard Edition, your PS4 discs remain valuable. You can continue playing them, and many offer enhanced performance on PS5.
❌ No, if you have a PS5 Digital Edition. Without a disc drive, you cannot use PS4 discs, so you would need to repurchase digital versions of the games.
If you’re planning to upgrade to PS5, consider getting the PS5 Standard Edition if you have a large PS4 disc collection! 🎮