If you’ve recently made the jump to a PlayStation 5 and have a library of beloved PS3 titles gathering dust, you’re probably asking the same question thousands of gamers ask every day: can you play PS3 games on PS5? The answer is yes — but it’s not as straightforward as popping in a disc. In this complete guide, we’ll walk you through every method available, what works, what doesn’t, and what the future holds for PS3 backward compatibility on PS5.
The Short Answer: Yes, But With Limitations
The PS5 does not natively support PS3 game discs. If you insert your old PS3 disc into your PS5, it won’t be recognized. However, Sony has made a large and growing catalog of PS3 titles available through its PlayStation Plus Premium subscription tier via cloud streaming. Think of it as a Netflix for PlayStation classics — you stream the games over the internet rather than running them locally on your hardware.
This is an important distinction from how the PS5 handles PS4 games, which can be played natively from both discs and digital downloads without any subscription requirement.
Why Can’t the PS5 Natively Play PS3 Discs?
The root cause is architectural. The PlayStation 3 was powered by the IBM Cell processor, an unusual and ambitious chip that was notoriously difficult to develop for. It was fundamentally different from the x86-64 architecture that powers the PS4 and PS5. When Sony designed the PS5 — which uses a custom AMD chip — bridging the gap to emulate the Cell processor natively was a massive engineering challenge.
Can You Play PS3 Games on PS5? The Complete Guide (2025)
Interestingly, a tech YouTuber known as “Lowest Logan” demonstrated in late 2024 that the PS5’s underlying hardware is actually capable of running PS3 games, using an AMD BC-250 mining card (which features the same silicon as a PS5). He successfully ran games like Gran Turismo 5 Prologue and LittleBigPlanet through the RPCS3 emulator. This confirms the hardware can handle it — it’s a software and licensing decision that currently prevents native emulation on the official console.
Method 1: PlayStation Plus Premium (The Official Way)
The only official method to play PS3 games on PS5 right now is through a PlayStation Plus Premium subscription. This is Sony’s top-tier PS Plus plan, sitting above PS Plus Essential and PS Plus Extra.
How It Works
PS3 games in the Premium catalog are streamed via cloud gaming. Sony runs the games on powerful remote servers that emulate the PS3’s Cell architecture, then streams the video output to your PS5. You control the game in real time, but all the actual processing happens in the cloud.
Unlike PS1 and PS2 classics, PS3 titles through PS Plus Premium cannot be downloaded to your console — they are stream-only. This means you’ll need a stable internet connection to play them.
PS Plus Premium Pricing (2025)
- Monthly: $17.99/month
- 3 Months: $49.99
- Annual: $159.99/year
For the price, Premium is a solid value — you get access to hundreds of PS4 and PS5 games from the Extra catalog, plus the full classics library spanning PS1, PS2, PS3, and PSP titles. You can check the official PlayStation Plus page for the most up-to-date pricing in your region.
How to Stream PS3 Games on PS5 via PS Plus Premium
- Subscribe to PlayStation Plus Premium from your PS5 or the PlayStation website.
- On your PS5 home screen, navigate to the PlayStation Plus app (it’s the golden D-pad icon).
- Go to the Game Catalog and filter by PS3 under Classics.
- Select the game you want and choose Play via Streaming.
- Ensure your internet connection is stable (a wired connection or fast Wi-Fi is recommended).
That’s it! The game will launch in your browser within seconds, streamed directly to your console.
Internet Speed Requirements for PS3 Streaming
Sony recommends at least 5 Mbps for cloud streaming, but for a smooth, low-latency experience on your PS5, aim for:
- 15 Mbps or higher for 1080p streaming
- A wired Ethernet connection is always preferable over Wi-Fi
- Low latency (ping under 50ms) matters especially for action games
Can You Play PS3 Disc games on PS5?
No. PS3 discs are not compatible with the PS5 — even the disc-based PS5 model. If you insert a PS3 disc, your PS5 simply won’t recognize it. This is different from PS4 discs, which work natively in the disc-version PS5.
If you have a physical PS3 disc collection, your options are:
- Check if the game has been remastered for PS4/PS5 (many have been) and purchase/stream that version
- Keep your PS3 console to play physical games
- See if the title is available in the PS Plus Premium streaming catalog
Best PS3 Games Available on PS5 via PS Plus Premium
There are currently over 300 PS3 games available for streaming through PS Plus Premium. Here are some fan favorites and essential classics you should check out:
| Game Title | Genre | Why Play It |
|---|---|---|
| Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots | Action / Stealth | A PS3 exclusive masterpiece — still stunning |
| Red Dead Redemption | Open World | The original classic that defined a genre |
| Demon’s Souls (Original) | Action RPG | Before Bluepoint’s remake — experience the original |
| LittleBigPlanet | Platformer | Iconic PS3 era creativity |
| Gran Turismo 5 | Racing | Still looks amazing for its age |
| Batman: Arkham City | Action-Adventure | One of the best superhero games ever made |
| Journey | Indie / Adventure | A short, unforgettable emotional experience |
| Fallout: New Vegas | RPG | One of the most beloved RPGs in history |
| BioShock Infinite | FPS / Story | A narrative marvel with incredible gameplay |
| Uncharted 2: Among Thieves | Action-Adventure | The game that defined cinematic gaming on PS3 |
You can find the complete and always-updated list on the official PlayStation Plus game catalog page.
PS5 Backward Compatibility: A Quick Overview
To understand where PS3 fits in, here’s a quick look at the full backward compatibility picture for PS5:
| Console | Disc Support | Digital/Download | Via PS Plus Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| PS4 | ✅ Yes (most games) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes (Extra/Premium) |
| PS3 | ❌ No | ❌ No | ✅ Stream Only (Premium) |
| PS2 | ❌ No | ❌ No | ✅ Download (Premium) |
| PS1 | ❌ No | ❌ No | ✅ Download (Premium) |
It’s worth noting that PS2 and PS1 classics through PS Plus Premium can actually be downloaded to your PS5, while PS3 games are stream-only. This is because PS1 and PS2 emulation is far less complex and can run natively on PS5 hardware.
What About PS3 Remastered Games on PS5?
One of the best ways to experience PS3-era classics on your PS5 is through remastered and remake editions. Sony and many third-party studios have updated dozens of classic titles for modern platforms, often with improved graphics, higher frame rates, and additional content. Here are some of the most notable:
- The Last of Us Part I (PS5 remake) — the definitive way to experience this PS3 classic
- Demon’s Souls (PS5 remake by Bluepoint) — breathtaking visual overhaul
- Uncharted: Legacy of Thieves Collection — includes remastered Uncharted 4 and Lost Legacy
- BioShock: The Collection — all three BioShock games remastered for PS4/PS5
- Batman: Return to Arkham — Arkham Asylum and Arkham City remastered
- Dark Souls Remastered — the original with improvements
Many of these remasters are available on the PlayStation Store for direct purchase and can also appear in the PS Plus Extra/Premium catalog. They are absolutely worth playing if you want the best visual experience of your favorite PS3 games.
Is Sony Working on Native PS3 Emulation for PS5?
This is the big question, and there are some promising signs on the horizon. In June 2024, a Sony patent surfaced suggesting that the company is actively researching ways to make PS3 games natively playable on PS5 hardware — without requiring cloud streaming. Additionally, a company called Implicit Conversions, which already partnered with Sony to bring PS1 and PS2 emulation to PS Plus Premium, confirmed they are working on PS3 emulation for PS5 as well, though it could still be years away.
As of early 2025, nothing official has been announced, but the trajectory is encouraging. Fans are hopeful that within the next few years, PS3 games may become downloadable on PS5 — just like PS1 and PS2 titles are today.
You can stay updated on PlayStation news and announcements through the official PlayStation Blog.
PS3 Streaming: Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
- Access to a catalog of 300+ classic PS3 games
- No need to download large game files — instant access
- Trophies are supported, including platinum trophies
- Cloud saves let you continue on any compatible device
- Works through any PS5 (disc or digital edition)
Disadvantages
- Requires a stable, fast internet connection at all times
- Can’t play your existing PS3 disc or digital library
- Not all PS3 games are in the catalog
- PS3 save files from your original console won’t transfer
- Latency can be an issue in fast-paced action games
- PS3 streaming is not available in all regions (some markets get PS Plus Deluxe instead, which doesn’t include PS3 streaming)
Tips to Get the Best Experience Playing PS3 Games on PS5
- Use a wired Ethernet connection — This dramatically reduces lag and improves stream quality compared to Wi-Fi.
- Close background apps on your PS5 — This frees up processing resources for the streaming connection.
- Check your region’s availability — PS3 cloud streaming is only available in regions that offer PS Plus Premium (not Deluxe). Check what’s included in your region here.
- Use PS5’s video output settings wisely — Streaming games often look best at 1080p rather than forcing 4K.
- Monitor your internet connection — Use fast.com or similar tools to check your speed before long gaming sessions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you play PS3 discs on PS5?
No. The PS5 does not read PS3 discs. Even the disc-based PS5 model cannot play PS3 physical media due to the fundamental hardware architecture differences between the two consoles.
Do you need PS Plus to play PS3 games on PS5?
Yes. Currently, the only way to play PS3 games on your PS5 is through the PS Plus Premium subscription, which includes PS3 game streaming. There is no other official method to access PS3 titles on PS5.
Can you download PS3 games on PS5?
No. Unlike PS1 and PS2 games, PS3 titles on PS Plus Premium are stream-only and cannot be downloaded to your console’s storage. You need an active internet connection to play them.
How many PS3 games are available on PS Plus Premium?
As of 2025, there are over 300 PS3 games available to stream on PS5 through PS Plus Premium. Sony continues to add new titles regularly.
Can I transfer my PS3 saves to PS5?
Unfortunately, no. PS3 save files are not compatible with the cloud-streamed versions of games on PS Plus Premium. You’ll need to start fresh when playing PS3 games via streaming on your PS5.
Will Sony ever add full PS3 backward compatibility to PS5?
There are positive signs that Sony is working toward this. Patents filed in 2024 and statements from Sony’s emulation partners suggest that native PS3 emulation on PS5 is being explored. However, no official release timeline has been announced as of early 2025.
Is PS Plus Premium worth it just for PS3 games?
That depends on how many PS3 games you want to revisit. But given that PS Plus Premium also includes hundreds of PS4/PS5 titles, PS1 and PS2 classics, and game trials, it offers strong overall value beyond just PS3 access. For most gamers, the full package justifies the price easily.
Alternatives: Other Ways to Play PS3 Games
If you don’t want a PS Plus Premium subscription, or your region doesn’t support PS3 streaming, here are some other ways to enjoy PS3-era games:
- Keep your PS3 — The simplest solution. A PS3 console still works perfectly and supports your entire physical and digital PS3 library. Second-hand PS3 consoles are very affordable in 2025.
- Buy remastered versions — Many PS3 classics have been remastered for PS4/PS5 and are available on the PlayStation Store or physically. These often look and run much better.
- PC emulation (RPCS3) — The open-source RPCS3 emulator is the most advanced PS3 emulator available for PC and has excellent compatibility with thousands of titles. If you have a capable gaming PC, this is a fantastic option.
- Check Xbox/PC ports — Some former PS3 exclusives have since come to other platforms. Titles like the Yakuza series and many others are now on PC via Steam.
Final Verdict: Is Playing PS3 Games on PS5 Worth It?
Absolutely — with the right expectations. Yes, you can play PS3 games on PS5, but you’ll be doing it through cloud streaming via PS Plus Premium, not from physical discs or downloaded files. The experience is good when you have a solid internet connection, and the library of over 300 titles includes some genuine all-time greats.
The fact that Sony’s hardware can handle PS3 emulation natively — as experiments have shown — means we may eventually get a proper solution similar to what exists for PS1 and PS2 games. Until then, PS Plus Premium streaming is the official and most accessible path.
If you’re serious about revisiting the PS3 era and want the most complete experience, combining PS Plus Premium with a few key remasters gives you the best of both worlds on your PS5 today.
Want more PlayStation tips and gaming guides? Check out our other articles on PGUpdate.in:
Sources & Further Reading:
- PlayStation Plus Official Page
- PlayStation Blog – Official News
- RPCS3 – Open Source PS3 Emulator
- PlayStation Universe – PS3 on PS5 Analysis
- Game Rant – PS3 Native Emulation on PS5 Hardware Test
- NotebookCheck – PS5 PS3 Emulator Development Update
- Android Authority – PS5 Backward Compatibility Full Guide
- XDA Developers – PS5 Can Play PS3 Games, Sony Won’t Let You
- NaconGaming – Backward Compatibility PS3 on PS5 Explained
- Console Therapy – How to Play PS3 Games on PS5 Step-by-Step
