Can You Play PS3 Games on PS5? A Comprehensive Guide
Still holding on to your stack of PS3 games and wondering if your PS5 can bring them back to life? You’re not the only one. A lot of players are asking the same thing and the answer isn’t as straightforward as popping in a disc and hitting “play.”
The truth is, the PS5 doesn’t support PS3 discs or digital downloads in the way you might expect. But that doesn’t mean you’re completely out of luck. There are still ways to revisit those older titles some official, some not and this guide breaks it all down so you know exactly what your options are.
Can PS5 Play PS3 Games Directly?
No, the PS5 cannot run PS3 game discs or digital downloads natively. If you try to insert a PS3 disc into the console, nothing will happen. And if you previously purchased digital PS3 titles, they won’t show up in your PS5 library.
This is because the PS3 was built with a unique processor called the Cell, which is difficult to replicate on newer systems. Sony didn’t build direct support for that hardware into the PS5. So even though your console can handle PS4 games without a problem, it won’t recognize PS3 games in the same way.
Want to play PS3 games on your PS4? Here’s how to do it through streaming, jailbreak, or USB.
If you’re looking to play a PS3 title on your PS5, you’ll need to rely on cloud streaming, remastered editions, or keep your original PS3 system for full access.
PlayStation Plus Premium for PS3 Titles
PlayStation Plus Premium is Sony’s highest subscription tier. It includes access to a cloud library of older PlayStation titles, including a selection of PS3 games.
You don’t install the games directly on your PS5. Instead, they stream over the internet, similar to watching a movie online. You choose a title, press play, and the game runs from Sony’s servers.
What You Need to Use It
To stream PS3 games smoothly, you’ll need:
- A PlayStation Plus Premium subscription
- A fast and stable internet connection
- A supported region where cloud gaming is available
Things to Keep in Mind
These games won’t support PS5 features like upgraded graphics or fast SSD speeds. You also can’t play offline. Still, it’s the easiest official way to access PS3 titles without needing the original console.
Popular PS3 Games Available via Cloud Streaming
Not every PS3 game is available, but many well-known titles have made the list. Sony updates the catalog regularly, especially under the PlayStation Plus Premium plan.
Examples of Streamable PS3 Games
Here are some PS3 games currently available through cloud streaming on PS5:
- Red Dead Redemption
- Demon’s Souls (original)
- Ratchet & Clank: A Crack in Time
- MotorStorm Apocalypse
- Infamous 2
- Resistance 3
These titles can be streamed directly once you’re subscribed and connected to a strong network.
Limitations of the Catalog
You won’t find every PS3 title. Some big names are missing, and third-party licensing affects availability. There’s also no way to buy individual PS3 games to stream — access comes only through the subscription.
Remasters and Ports of PS3 Games for PS4 and PS5
Since direct support for PS3 games is limited, Sony and other developers have re-released popular titles as remastered or ported versions for the PS4 and PS5. These versions often run better and include visual or performance upgrades.
Popular PS3 Games with Updated Versions
Some PS3 games now have remastered editions or collections made for newer consoles. Here are a few:
- The Last of Us Remastered
- Uncharted: The Nathan Drake Collection
- God of War III Remastered
- Heavy Rain
- Beyond: Two Souls
These versions work like any other PS4 or PS5 game. You can download or use a disc if supported, with no cloud streaming required.
Benefits of Playing Remastered Versions
These games often have better frame rates, smoother graphics, and shorter load times. Since they’re designed for newer consoles, you get a more stable playing experience compared to streaming.
Why PS3 Games Are Hard to Emulate
The reason PS3 games don’t work on a PS5 is mostly technical. The PS3 was built with a processor called the Cell Broadband Engine — a design that was powerful for its time but very complex. It handled data in a way that modern PlayStation hardware no longer supports.
Because of that, it’s not as simple as dropping a disc into a newer console. Emulating the PS3’s structure would require the PS5 to mimic its exact behavior through software, which is extremely difficult and resource-heavy. That’s why Sony hasn’t built full PS3 compatibility into the PS5 and instead relies on cloud streaming to deliver those titles.
So, while it’s technically possible, it’s not realistic on a large scale — at least not yet.
Other Ways to Play PS3 Games Today
If you’re not interested in PlayStation Plus Premium or streaming, there are still a few ways to enjoy PS3 games.
Use a PS3 Console for the Full Library
The easiest and most complete option is to use a working PS3. It plays both disc and digital games without needing internet or subscriptions. If you already own one, you’re all set.
Stream PS3 Games on a PC
With a PlayStation Plus Premium subscription, you can stream PS3 titles on a Windows PC. It requires a DualShock controller and stable internet. It’s not perfect for fast-paced games, but it works well for many story-based titles.
Try Emulation (With Caution)
Some users explore emulation using RPCS3. It lets you play PS3 games on a powerful PC, but it’s complex to set up and often legally grey unless you own the games. It’s not recommended for casual players or those looking for plug-and-play ease.
Is the PS5 Fully Backward Compatible?
The PS5 is backward compatible with nearly all PS4 titles. You can insert a PS4 disc or download digital PS4 games, and they’ll run just fine on a PS5. Some even load faster or run more smoothly thanks to the newer hardware.
It Does Not Support PS3, PS2, or PS1 Discs
PS3, PS1, and PS2 games won’t run on a PS5. The system doesn’t have the built-in support for those older formats. Even though some older games appear in the PlayStation Store, they’re offered through cloud streaming or remastered versions — not direct disc playback.
Digital Classics Are Limited
Some titles from earlier consoles show up in digital collections, but the library is small. Streaming or remastered releases are the only official paths to access those older games on a PS5.
Best Remastered PS3 Games for PS4 and PS5
Several PS3 games have been remastered or re-released for PS4 and PS5. These versions often include improved visuals, smoother performance, and updated features — no streaming required.
Top Picks Available Today
- The Last of Us Remastered: A polished version of the original with sharper graphics and faster load times.
- Uncharted: The Nathan Drake Collection: Includes the first three Uncharted games with visual upgrades.
- God of War III Remastered: Delivers improved textures and performance over the original PS3 version.
- Batman: Arkham Collection: Features Arkham Asylum and Arkham City with enhanced visuals.
- Heavy Rain & Beyond: Two Souls Collection: These narrative-driven games were updated for smoother gameplay and cleaner visuals.
Read More About:
How to Connect a PS3 Controller to PC (Wired, Bluetooth & Steam)
How to Access These Games
You can buy these remasters digitally or on disc for PS4. Most also work on PS5 thanks to backward compatibility, so you can play them without needing any cloud service.
Can You Still Get After-Sales Support for the PS3?
Sony officially discontinued the PlayStation 3 in most regions several years ago. That means it no longer offers repairs, customer service, or updates for PS3 systems through its standard support channels.
Some Services Still Work
You can still access your PS3 digital games, use online features (where supported), and redownload content you own. However, these services may stop over time as Sony gradually shifts resources away from older platforms.
If your PS3 stops working, some independent shops still offer repairs. Just be cautious about where you go, since parts and service quality can vary.
Final Thoughts
The PS5 can’t run PS3 discs or digital downloads directly, but it does offer access to some PS3 games through cloud streaming with a PlayStation Plus Premium subscription. While not a perfect solution, it’s currently the only official way to revisit PS3 titles without the original console.
If you want the full PS3 experience, holding onto your old console or exploring remastered versions on PS4 and PS5 may be the better route.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use a PS4 controller on a PS3?
Yes, a PS4 controller can work on a PS3, but with limited features. You’ll need to connect it using a USB cable. Some functions like the PS button, motion sensing, or wireless play may not work unless you pair it through custom settings.
Can PS5 play PS3 discs?
No, the PS5 cannot read or run PS3 discs. The system doesn’t support backward compatibility with PS3 physical media.
Are any PS3 games available on PS5?
Yes, but only through PlayStation Plus Premium. You can stream selected PS3 titles from the cloud. These games are not installed locally and require a stable internet connection.
Why can’t the PS5 run PS3 games directly?
The PS3’s hardware design is very different from the PS5’s. The PS3 used a custom processor that doesn’t match modern systems, making emulation difficult and unreliable without cloud support.
