This article will show you how to play PS1, PS2, or PS3 games on your PS4 via streaming or downloading them from PlayStation Now, or by purchasing classic and remastered titles from the PlayStation Store.
How to use your PS4 to play PS2 and PS3 games
PlayStation 4’s disc drive and hardware cannot read PS2 or PS3 disks. Therefore, PlayStation Now, Sony’s streaming service, is the best way to get your old favorites. PlayStation Now allows you to access a large library of PS2, PS3, or PS4 games. The service costs $10 per month and includes over 600 games.
- Sign up for PlayStation Now if you don’t already have an account.
- Open the Now app on your PlayStation 4.
- Browse the entire library.
- Highlight the game that you wish to play, and then click X on the controller.
- Select Download, or Stream.
- Wait for the game’s streaming or downloading to your PS4.
- You can play the game as if you were playing it on a PS2 console or PS3 console.
How to download PS1 or PS2 games to your PS4
You can purchase some PS1 and PS2 games through the PlayStation Store. This will allow you to play them on PS4. Although not many games are available through this service, it is worth looking at. Here are the steps to download them.
Select the PlayStation Store image on your PlayStation 4 and then press X on your controller.
- Scroll down to Search, and click X.
- Enter the name of your game.
- Scroll down to see the complete list.
- Choose the X game.
- To buy the game, tap Add to cart
What is PS4 Backwards Compatibility and How Does It Work?
Backward compatibility is the ability to use older software with new technology. The PlayStation 4 has the ability to play PS1, PS2, and PS3 games. This means you don’t have to pull out old consoles in order to enjoy your favorite games.
The PS2 was compatible with the original PlayStation 1 backward, while the launch version of the PlayStation 3 would allow you to play PlayStation 2 titles. It is more complicated to answer the question of PS4 backward compatibility.
PS4 users have an alternative: Remastered games
Many classic games have been remastered. These remastered versions often include extra features and improved graphics, so they may not be the same game as the original but are often much better.
You can enjoy classics such as Final Fantasy VII, Final Fantasy VIII, and PaRappa the Rapper on the PlayStation 4.
Remastered collections like the Spyro Reignited Trilogy and Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy can be purchased. These games are also available in physical form. If you prefer discs, you can put them in your PS4 console just like any other PS4 game. It’s worth checking if your old favorite is still available in a remastered version.
