Got a collection of physical PS4 games and wondering if they’ll work on the PS5? Here’s everything you need to know about backward compatibility, which PS5 model to choose, and how your games perform on next-gen hardware.
Are PS4 Disc Games Compatible with the PS5?
Thanks to PS5 backward compatibility, you can play the vast majority of your PS4 game library on the new console. While there are some workarounds for PS3 titles on PS5, PS4 support is far more straightforward: out of roughly 4,000 PS4 games, only six are not supported.
To play physical PS4 discs, you’ll need the standard PS5 model with a disc drive. The PS5 Digital Edition does not support disc-based games under any circumstances.
Using PS4 Discs on PS5: What You Need to Know
If you’re playing from physical discs, keep the following in mind:
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You’ll need to insert the PS4 disc each time you want to play.
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The game may require a one-time update or patch when first installed on PS5.
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For added comfort, you can connect your PS4 controller to keep the original feel.
In short: if most of your game library is on disc, the standard PS5 is the way to go.
Are There Any Incompatible Games?
Almost all PS4 titles are supported on PS5, but a few exceptions exist. Games like Afro Samurai 2: Revenge of Kuma Volume One and Hitman Go: Definitive Edition are not playable and are marked “PS4 Only” on the PlayStation Store.
These rare exclusions are usually due to technical limitations or specific development choices. Luckily, they represent less than 1% of the full PS4 catalogue. If you’re unsure whether a particular title is compatible, it’s always a good idea to check its listing on the PlayStation Store before installing or purchasing.
Do PS4 Games Run Better on PS5?
Yes — and in many cases, noticeably so. The PS5 not only plays your PS4 games, it enhances them. Faster load times alone make a significant difference, offering smoother and more responsive gameplay.
Thanks to Game Boost, certain titles can run at higher frame rates — up to 60 FPS — and improved resolutions, sometimes reaching native 4K. Games like God of War and The Last of Us Part II showcase sharper textures, richer shadows, and generally improved visuals.
The extent of these enhancements varies from game to game. Some receive specific next-gen patches, while others simply benefit from the PS5’s raw power and improved SSD architecture.
