PS5 backwards compatibility: Here's how it works
PS5 backwards compatibility is a lot more straightforward than last gen
Unlike the last-generation, PS5 backwards compatibility is a lot easier to understand. Aside from a handful of games - which we'll get onto below - you can play any PS4 games on PS5 whether they're digital or disc-based. Not every game will be updated to offer extra features via PS5 backwards compatibility, but be safe in the knowledge that they're all there just waiting to be played if you so wished.
We've updated the list of PS4 games not backwards compatible underneath, adding an asterisk to titles that are working on getting a title update.
- 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: Definite Edition
- Shadwen
- Joe's Diner
In all, PS5 backwards compatibility extends to well over 4,000 titles. There was some head-scratching when Sony revealed the list of games that wouldn’t be playable on the PS5 originally, as it was buried in a support page, but now that list is a little less mysterious.
Thankfully, PS5 backwards compatibility is very easy to take advantage of on Sony's latest console. It's as easy as inserting the PS4 disc, redownloading it on your new console, or transferring your game from your old PS4.
Here's a full guide on how to play PS4 games on PS5 that walks you through each option.
Of course, should you not fancy playing PS4 games, there's a lot of upcoming PS5 games to get your teeth sunk into.
Sign up to the 12DOVE Newsletter
Weekly digests, tales from the communities you love, and more
12DOVE was first founded in 1999, and since then has been dedicated to delivering video game-related news, reviews, previews, features, and more. Since late 2014, the website has been the online home of Total Film, SFX, Edge, and PLAY magazines, with comics site Newsarama joining the fold in 2020. Our aim as the global GamesRadar Staff team is to take you closer to the games, movies, TV shows, and comics that you love. We want to upgrade your downtime, and help you make the most of your time, money, and skills. We always aim to entertain, inform, and inspire through our mix of content - which includes news, reviews, features, tips, buying guides, and videos.