The PlayStation 4 (PS4) is not natively backward compatible with games from older PlayStation consoles, such as the PS1, PS2, or PS3. However, there are a few ways you can play older PlayStation games on a PS4:
- Remastered/Re-released Games: Some popular games from previous PlayStation consoles have been remastered or re-released for the PS4. These can be purchased and played on the PS4.
- PlayStation Store: Certain PS2 and PS1 classics are available for purchase on the PlayStation Store, allowing you to download and play them on your PS4.
- PlayStation Now: This is a subscription-based service that allows you to stream a library of PS2, PS3, and PS4 games to your PS4 or PC. This service gives you access to a variety of older titles without the need for physical discs.
- PlayStation Plus Premium: The top tier of the PlayStation Plus subscription service (previously known as PlayStation Plus and PlayStation Now) includes access to a selection of classic games from the PS1, PS2, PS3, and PSP libraries.
These methods provide some level of backward compatibility, but they do not allow you to use physical discs from older consoles directly in a PS4.
Here are more details about each method to play older PlayStation games on a PS4:
Remastered/Re-released Games
Some games from older PlayStation consoles have been given a fresh coat of paint and re-released on the PS4 with improved graphics, additional content, and enhanced gameplay. Examples include titles like:
- “Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster” (originally on PS2)
- “The Last of Us Remastered” (originally on PS3)
- “Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy” (originally on PS1)
PlayStation Store
The PlayStation Store offers a selection of classic games from the PS1 and PS2 eras that can be purchased and downloaded to your PS4. These games are usually optimized to run on the PS4 hardware and might include features like trophy support. Some examples are:
- “Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas” (PS2)
- “Dark Cloud” (PS2)
- “Twisted Metal: Black” (PS2)
PlayStation Now (PS Now)
PlayStation Now is Sony’s cloud gaming subscription service that allows you to stream and sometimes download a wide array of games from the PS2, PS3, and PS4 libraries. You can play these games on your PS4, PS5, or PC without needing the original discs. The service offers a rotating selection of games, and your save progress is stored in the cloud. This service provides an extensive catalog, including titles like:
- “Red Dead Redemption” (PS3)
- “God of War III” (PS3)
- “Uncharted 2: Among Thieves” (PS3)
PlayStation Plus Premium
The PlayStation Plus Premium tier combines the benefits of PlayStation Plus and PlayStation Now. It includes access to a library of classic games from the PS1, PS2, PS3, and PSP, allowing you to download or stream these titles on your PS4 or PS5. This service also provides other benefits like online multiplayer, free monthly games, and exclusive discounts.
While these methods do not offer complete backward compatibility in the sense of using physical discs from older consoles, they provide various options to enjoy classic PlayStation games on your PS4.