PS5 games don't support PS4 controllers — here's why

PS5 games don't support PS4 controllers — here's why

We already know that the PS5 is designed to play almost all PS4 games, but what about accessories? Sony answered that question on the PlayStation Blog.

In a FAQ published today, Sony outlined a list of PS4 accessories that will work with the next-generation console. The answers are almost all there, but there are a few things to note.

The PS5 will support "special peripherals" such as officially licensed arcade sticks, flight sticks, and racing wheels for both PS5 and PS4 games. In addition to gaming headsets that connect via USB or 3.5mm headphone jack, the PS5 will also be able to use Sony's Platinum and Gold wireless headsets.

The PS Move motion controller and PlayStation VR Aim Controller will also work when using the PlayStation VR headset with PS5. In addition, PlayStation Camera owners will be able to use the PlayStation Camera on the PS5 via a special adapter that Sony says will be provided free of charge.

Finally, the PS5 will support the DualShock 4 controller, but with some limitations: while older PS4 controllers (and officially licensed third-party controllers) can be used when playing PS4 games on the PS5 cannot be used.

"We believe PS5 games should take advantage of the new features and capabilities we are bringing to the platform, including the capabilities of the DualSense wireless controller," wrote Isabel Tomatis, who is in charge of PSVR and peripheral marketing at Sony.

While this is not a huge surprise, it does mean that PS5 multiplayer games will require the purchase of an additional DualSense controller rather than using the old DualShock 4 pad. This strategy also contrasts with Microsoft's approach, where the Xbox Series X will work with all existing Xbox One accessories, regardless of the game you play (Microsoft even took the opportunity to take a mild jab at Sony on Twitter about this).

This is another notable difference between the PS5, which is supposed to be a true generational leap forward, and the Xbox Series X, which is positioned as just one piece of the larger Xbox ecosystem. It should be an interesting showdown when both consoles arrive this holiday season.

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