PS4 Games Not On PS5: Compatibility Issues

by Jhon Lennon 43 views

So, you've upgraded to the PlayStation 5, huh? Awesome! The PS5 is a beast of a console, offering blazing-fast loading times and stunning graphics. But, like many of us, you probably have a library of PS4 games that you're hoping to carry over. The good news is that the vast majority of PS4 games work perfectly fine on the PS5. Sony did a great job ensuring backward compatibility. However, there are a few exceptions, and that's what we're here to talk about.

Knowing which games don't make the jump can save you some frustration. Imagine getting all hyped up to play a classic, only to find out it's not compatible. To keep things transparent and manageable, I will be covering all of the reasons why games do not work and which ones do not work. Let's dive into the world of PS4 games that won't run on your shiny new PS5.

Why Some PS4 Games Don't Work on PS5

Before we get into the list of specific games, let's talk about why some PS4 titles aren't compatible with the PS5. Generally, the PS5 boasts excellent backward compatibility, meaning it can play most PS4 games without any issues. This is largely due to the PS5's hardware being designed to emulate the PS4's architecture. However, there are a few technical and licensing reasons that can prevent certain games from working.

  • Technical Issues: Sometimes, the way a game was coded or the specific libraries it uses can cause conflicts with the PS5's system software. These issues can be complex and might require significant patching or updates to resolve. Game developers need to ensure their games are compatible with the new hardware, which isn't always straightforward.
  • Licensing and Permissions: Licensing can be a major hurdle. If a game has licensing agreements that are specific to the PS4, it might not be possible to extend those licenses to the PS5. This is often the case with games that include licensed music, characters, or other copyrighted content. Renewing these licenses can be costly and time-consuming, which might deter developers from making their games compatible.
  • Lack of Developer Support: In some cases, the original developers of a game might no longer be in business or may not have the resources to update their games for the PS5. This is especially true for smaller indie titles or older games. Without active support from the developers, it's unlikely that these games will ever become compatible.
  • DRM and Security Measures: Digital Rights Management (DRM) and other security measures can also cause compatibility issues. If a game uses outdated DRM methods that aren't recognized by the PS5, it might not be able to run. These security protocols are designed to prevent piracy but can sometimes interfere with legitimate use on newer hardware.

These are some of the primary reasons why a PS4 game might not be playable on the PS5. While Sony has worked hard to ensure broad compatibility, these factors can still prevent certain games from making the jump. Now, let's get into the specific games that are known to have issues.

List of PS4 Games Incompatible with PS5

Okay, so let's get down to the nitty-gritty. What PS4 games definitely won't run on your PS5? As it stands, the list is pretty short, which is great news. However, it's still worth knowing which titles to avoid if you're planning a gaming marathon. Here's the rundown:

  1. DWVR: This is a first-person shooter designed for virtual reality. DWVR takes you to a dystopian world where you have to survive waves of enemies using a variety of weapons. While it was a decent VR experience on the PS4, it unfortunately doesn't make the cut for PS5 compatibility. Fans hoping to immerse themselves in DWVR on the new console will be disappointed. The game utilizes specific PS4 VR architecture that hasn't translated well to the PS5, leaving it in the incompatible list.
  2. Afro Samurai 2: Revenge of Kuma Volume One: This action game is a sequel to the original Afro Samurai, continuing the tale of vengeance and samurai action. However, this game had many issues, and was eventually pulled from the PlayStation Store due to overwhelmingly negative reviews and technical problems. Its incompatibility with the PS5 is likely due to these underlying issues and the lack of developer support to fix them. Players looking for samurai action on the PS5 will need to find it elsewhere.
  3. TT Isle of Man - Ride on the Edge 2: A thrilling motorcycle racing game that puts you on the challenging Isle of Man TT course. Known for its realistic graphics and intense gameplay, TT Isle of Man - Ride on the Edge 2 offers a unique racing experience. Its absence from the PS5 compatibility list is surprising, given its popularity and recent release. Technical issues or licensing hurdles might be the reason, but fans of the game will need to stick to their PS4 to enjoy this ride.
  4. Just Deal With It!: A party game that includes various card games. Just Deal With It! Is designed for social play and features different modes and challenges. The reason for its incompatibility isn't entirely clear, but it could be related to the game's online features or specific PS4 system dependencies. Party game enthusiasts on the PS5 will need to find alternative options for their social gaming nights.
  5. Shadow Complex Remastered: A side-scrolling action-adventure game with exploration elements. Shadow Complex Remastered offers a Metroidvania-style experience. Despite being a remastered version of a popular game, it's not playable on the PS5. Technical issues during the porting process might have led to this incompatibility. Fans of the Metroidvania genre will need to explore other options on the PS5.

This short list represents the known PS4 games that won't work on your PS5. While it's a bummer if one of your favorites is on there, remember that the vast majority of PS4 games are compatible and run even better on the PS5, thanks to the console's enhanced hardware.

How to Check if Your PS4 Games Work on PS5

Alright, so you're wondering how to check if your favorite PS4 games will actually work on your PS5? Here's the lowdown on how to make sure you don't run into any compatibility surprises.

  1. Sony's Official List: The first and most reliable source is Sony's official list of compatible games. Sony keeps an updated list on their website and PlayStation support pages. This list is your best friend when trying to confirm whether a game will work. Just a quick search on the PlayStation website should give you the most up-to-date information.
  2. Online Forums and Communities: Gaming communities are an invaluable resource. Websites like Reddit, GameFAQs, and PlayStation-specific forums often have threads dedicated to PS4 game compatibility on the PS5. Other gamers share their experiences, so you can often find out if a game has issues or runs perfectly fine. Seriously, these communities are goldmines.
  3. Testing the Game Directly: The most straightforward way is to simply try playing the game on your PS5. If you have the physical disc, pop it into your PS5 and see if it installs and runs. If you own the digital version, download it from your PlayStation library and give it a whirl. If the game starts without any issues, you're good to go. However, be aware that some games might have initial compatibility but encounter problems later on.
  4. Checking Game-Specific Updates: Sometimes, game developers release patches to fix compatibility issues. Make sure your PS5 and the game are updated to the latest versions. Updates can often resolve compatibility problems, so it's always worth checking before you write off a game.
  5. Utilizing Online Compatibility Checkers: There are several unofficial websites and tools that claim to check game compatibility. While these can be helpful, take them with a grain of salt. They are often based on user-submitted data and might not be 100% accurate. Always cross-reference the information with official sources.

By using these methods, you can get a pretty good idea of whether your PS4 games will work on your PS5. Remember to stay updated with the latest information, as compatibility can change with system updates and game patches.

Enhancements for PS4 Games on PS5

Even if a PS4 game is fully compatible with the PS5, that's not the end of the story. The PS5's beefy hardware can actually enhance your PS4 gaming experience. Here's how:

  • Improved Loading Times: One of the most noticeable improvements is loading times. The PS5's SSD (Solid State Drive) is significantly faster than the PS4's hard drive. This means games load much quicker, reducing wait times and getting you into the action faster. Say goodbye to those long loading screens!
  • Higher and More Stable Frame Rates: The PS5 can often deliver higher frame rates than the PS4, even for games that weren't specifically optimized for the new console. This results in smoother gameplay and a more responsive experience. Who doesn't love buttery-smooth gameplay?
  • Resolution Upscaling: While not all PS4 games get a full resolution boost, the PS5 can upscale the resolution, making games look sharper and more detailed. This is especially noticeable on 4K TVs. Everything just looks better on a 4K screen.
  • Auto-HDR: The PS5 has an Auto-HDR feature that can add High Dynamic Range (HDR) to games that didn't originally support it. This can make colors more vibrant and improve the overall visual quality. HDR is like a visual feast for your eyes.
  • Backwards Compatibility Features: PS5 offers features like Game Boost, which improves the performance of select PS4 games. This can include higher frame rates, better resolution, and more stable performance. These enhancements can significantly improve your gaming experience.

These enhancements mean that even if a PS4 game doesn't get a full PS5 makeover, it can still look and play better on the new console. It's a great way to revisit your old favorites with a fresh perspective.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it. While a tiny handful of PS4 games might not make the jump to the PS5, the vast majority are fully compatible and often enhanced by the new hardware. Before you dive into your gaming collection, take a quick look at the official compatibility lists and community forums to avoid any surprises. With improved loading times, higher frame rates, and resolution upscaling, your PS4 games can shine like never before on the PS5. Happy gaming, folks! Hopefully this helps you sort out any worries or questions you had. Have fun playing the playstation 5, it is a blast.