One of the most useful features of a game console is backward compatibility. This is when the console allows you to play games from previous generation consoles. If the console supports this, it could allow you to merge the consoles you own and save a lot of time instead of switching back and forth to play certain games.
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PS2 did this for PS1 games, and early PS3s were backward compatible with PS2. Unfortunately, PS4 does not have this feature for any PS3 games. However, there are a few workarounds that might allow you to play some PS3 games on PS4.
The PS4 Pro and Slim versions are also not backward compatible, but you can use the same methods to play some older Playstation games on them.
How to play PS3 games on your PS4
Despite the lack of backward compatibility for PS4, it is possible to play some PS3 games. Playstation has a Playstation Now service that lets you download hundreds of games. This is the so-called cloud gaming service.
Cloud gaming is basically similar to streaming services, but only for gaming. You download the game and play it directly from the servers using a real PS3 console, and then the footage is broadcast to your console as a video. You will have to pay a subscription fee for PlayStation Now, which is currently $ 9.99 in the US and $ 8.99 in the UK.
There are many PS3 games available on this service, and not only that, there are also some PS2 games to download. However, as with the streaming service, games can be replaced by rotation.
It is also possible to purchase games from the Playstation store to download and play on PS4. Sony has updated many PS3 games so you can play them on PS4, as well as a large number of PS2 games.
Why can’t PS3 discs be played on PS4?
This is because the system architecture of the Playstation 4 is so different from the PS3 that it makes backward compatibility of the PS4 almost impossible. He doesn’t have the equipment to run the games the way they were programmed.
Because of this, the only way the PS4 can play PS3 games is if they have been emulated, or in other words, there must be a program on the system that can mimic the PS3 in order to play its games. This ability, however, requires a lot of power from the console and will require a lot of extra work.
Sony has taken a much simpler path – completely remaking individual PS3 games so that they can be played on the new console. These were games like Skyrim, BioShock, Dark Souls and others.
What are the best PS3 games to play on PS4?
Now that you know a few different ways to play PS3 games, you might be wondering which games are actually available. This list is compiled from games that you can stream or that have been updated for the PS4 itself.
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
Skyrim has become an extremely popular game since its release, and it’s hard to find a console that doesn’t use it. In 2016, The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim – Special Edition was released on PC, Xbox One and Playstation 4.
On PS4, it completely refreshes the PS3 version of the game with a graphical update, and also includes all three original DLCs released. It also allows you to modify the game directly from the console.
Dark Souls
In 2018, an updated PS3 version of the acclaimed Dark Souls game was released for PS4. This version completely updates the graphics and frame rates of the original, delivering 1080p @ 60fps, while the PS4 Pro version also allows 4K gaming. They also changed the number of friends you can play online with to 6.
This game has become a PS3 classic, so even though the PS4 is not backward compatible, you can still play one of the biggest games of the latest generation updated for PS4.
The Last of Us
Upon release, this game became an instant hit on PS3. With an emotional storyline, stunning graphics, and addictive gameplay, this is definitely a game people would love to play on an updated console.
This game was released as an updated version for PS4 in 2014. It includes graphics updates, higher frame rates, and allows those with a PS4 Pro to play in 4k. They also decided to incorporate more PS4 controller capabilities into the gameplay. It also gives you DLC that was released for the original game, like Left Behind.
Uncharted: The Nathan Drake Collection
Another series of games that has become popular on the PS3 is the Uncharted trilogy. These were games full of action and a memorable story. Thankfully, all three games have been updated for the PS4 so you can fully enjoy the trilogy with next generation updates.
Games have been redesigned to run at 1080p and 60fps, and many other graphics upgrades have been improved. Several game mechanics have also been changed in the remaster to make the game more cohesive. It doesn’t matter if you’ve played them already in their PS3 release or are looking to try them for the first time, the PS4 remaster will definitely suit you.
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