If you’re a long-time PlayStation fan wondering, Can you play PS3 games on PS5? You’re not alone. With the rise of retro gaming and Sony’s powerful hardware, many players want to revisit PlayStation 3 classics on their PlayStation 5. In this 2025 guide, we break down everything you need to know about PS3 compatibility on the PS5 including technical limitations, cloud streaming, and PlayStation Plus Premium.
Can You Play PS3 Games on PS5?
No,You cannot play PS3 games natively on the PS5. Unlike PS4 titles, which are essentially backwards compatible on the PS5, PS3 games require cloud streaming via PlayStation Plus Premium.
The PS3 used a unique Cell processor architecture that’s vastly different from the AMD-based hardware found in the PS4 and PS5. This fundamental incompatibility prevents the PS5 from running PS3 games directly—whether on disc or digital download.
How PS5 Handles Backward Compatibility
The PS5 does an excellent job supporting PlayStation 4 games digitally and on disc. However, backward compatibility with PS3 games is not built into the PS5 hardware.
A quick breakdown:
| Console Generation | PS5 Backward Compatibility |
|---|---|
| PlayStation 4 | ✅ Full support (native) |
| PlayStation 3 | ❌ No native support |
| PlayStation 2 | ❌ No native support |
| PlayStation 1 | ❌ No native support |
Why PS3 Games Can’t Run Natively on PS5
The PS3’s Cell Broadband Engine was revolutionary then but notoriously difficult to emulate. Emulating the Cell CPU in modern architecture, like the PS5, would require intensive resources and software engineering — something Sony has not officially implemented as of 2025.
This is why physical PS3 discs won’t work on the PS5, and digital PS3 downloads purchased in the past are not available for re-download on PS5 either.
How to Play PS3 Games on PS5: The Role of PlayStation Plus Premium
Although PS3 games aren’t natively supported, you can enjoy many of them on your PS5 through cloud streaming with PlayStation Plus Premium.
What Is PlayStation Plus Premium?
PlayStation Plus Premium is Sony’s highest-tier subscription, offering:
- Access to a catalogue of classic games (PS1, PS2, PS3, PSP)
- Cloud streaming of PS3 games (no downloads needed)
- Game trials and extended demos
- Online multiplayer access
💲 2025 Pricing:
- $17.99/month
- $49.99/quarter
- $119.99/year
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Stream PS3 Games on PS5
Here’s how to get started:
Step 1: Subscribe to PS Plus Premium
You can sign up via the PlayStation Store on your PS5 or Sony’s website. Make sure you select the Premium tier, not Essential or Extra.
Step 2: Navigate to the Classics Catalog
- On your PS5 dashboard, go to the PlayStation Plus Hub.
- Select “Classics Catalog”.
- Filter the games by Platform: PS3.
Step 3: Choose a Game
Select a game from the list of available PS3 titles. Most games offer a “Stream Now” option.
Step 4: Play Over the Cloud
Once you select Stream, the game will launch without downloading. Your progress is saved to the cloud, and you can resume anytime (as long as your subscription is active).
Common Issues with Streaming PS3 Games on PS5
While streaming PS3 games on PS5 works, there are a few potential drawbacks:
Internet Speed Requirements
Cloud streaming depends on a fast, stable internet connection. Sony recommends:
- At least 15 Mbps download speed
- Wired Ethernet connection for best results
Input Lag or Stuttering
Games may feel slightly less responsive than native installations, especially in fast-paced action or fighting games.
Limited Game Availability
Not every PS3 game is available via streaming. The catalogue includes hundreds of games but not the full PS3 library.
Popular PS3 Games Available on PS Plus Premium (2025)
Here are some fan-favourite PS3 titles you can stream on PS5 today:
- The Last of Us (Original)
- Uncharted 2: Among Thieves
- Red Dead Redemption
- God of War Collection (GoW 1 & 2 HD)
- Demon’s Souls (PS3 Version)
- Batman: Arkham Origins
- Infamous 1 & 2
- Bioshock
- Yakuza 5
- Resident Evil 4 (Classic HD)
Sony frequently updates the catalogue so that new titles may be added throughout the year.
Will Sony Ever Add Native PS3 Support on PS5?
As of 2025, Sony has not confirmed any plans to support native PS3 backward compatibility on the PS5.
However, rumours and patents have hinted at Sony developing new emulation technologies. Some industry insiders suggest the company may be testing PS3 emulation on PS5 internally, but no official announcements have been made.
Gamers hoping for disc-based or downloadable PS3 game support will need to wait — and keep an eye on PlayStation’s updates.
Can You Play PS3 Games on PS5 in 2025?
| Feature | Support on PS5 |
|---|---|
| Play PS3 discs | ❌ Not supported |
| Download PS3 digital games | ❌ Not supported |
| Stream PS3 games via PS Plus | ✅ Yes, with subscription |
| Internet connection required | ✅ Yes, for streaming |
| Popular PS3 games available | ✅ Yes, via Classics Catalog |
| Native backward compatibility | ❌ Not currently available |
Final Thoughts
Can you play PS3 games on PS5? Not directly, but with a PlayStation Plus Premium subscription, you can stream hundreds of classic PS3 titles through the cloud. While it’s not the same as popping in an old disc or booting up a downloaded game, it’s the best option.
Whether you’re revisiting Uncharted 2, taking on zombies in Resident Evil 4, or experiencing the original The Last of Us, cloud streaming on PS5 gives you a convenient way to access some of the best games from the PS3 era.
