What To Do Before Getting The PS5

With PlayStation 5 now available globally since its November 12 launch, many gamers are preparing to transition from their PS4 systems. While excitement runs high for unboxing your new console, strategic preparation on your current PS4 can dramatically streamline your setup experience and reduce transitional friction.

Even if you’ve already powered down your PS4, implementing these preparatory measures ensures you’ll maximize playtime with your new hardware rather than wrestling with data transfers and configuration issues during those crucial first hours.

While Xbox Series X/S boasts more comprehensive backwards compatibility features, PS5 delivers substantial enhancements for PS4 titles including potential resolution boosts, smoother frame rates, and significantly reduced loading times—benefits that multiply for games receiving dedicated PS5 optimization patches.

Strategic storage allocation becomes critical since PS5 games operate exclusively from the internal SSD. Designating an external drive specifically for PS4 titles creates an efficient ecosystem where next-gen and previous-gen games coexist without competing for premium storage real estate. You cannot temporarily store PS5 games externally, making this separation both practical and necessary.

Initiating game transfers before your PS5 arrives represents one of the most valuable time investments. These processes render your PS4 temporarily unusable, so schedule them during downtime. For optimal performance balance, transfer smaller PS4 games to the internal SSD while keeping larger titles on external storage to prevent rapid capacity exhaustion.

First-time external storage users must format their drive through Settings → Devices → USB Storage Devices, selecting “Format as extended storage” to establish proper compatibility.

Sony identifies a limited selection of PS4 games incompatible with PS5 —research these titles beforehand to avoid transferring games you cannot play.

Beyond your game library, safeguarding progress data ensures continuity in your gaming journey. Regularly back up save files to cloud storage or USB devices, verifying successful uploads before disconnecting your PS4. This prevents potential data loss during the transition period between consoles.

Trophy synchronization represents another critical preservation step. Ensure all earned achievements upload to PlayStation Network servers, creating permanent records independent of your local console. Missing this step could result in lost trophy progress that cannot be recovered.

For creators and sharers, managing screenshots and video captures requires deliberate planning. Transfer media to external storage or upload to supported cloud services, as these files don’t automatically transfer with your game data and require separate handling procedures.

Authentication preparedness prevents frustrating login delays when setting up your new console. Verify your sign-in credentials work correctly and consider enabling two-factor authentication for enhanced account security during this transitional phase.

PSVR owners face additional hardware considerations. Order your free PSVR adapter from Sony well in advance, as processing and shipping delays could postpone your virtual reality gaming on the new system.

Physical space planning often gets overlooked amidst digital preparations. Measure your entertainment center to ensure adequate clearance for the PS5’s larger footprint, and plan cable management for both consoles during the transition period.

No reproduction without permission：SeeYouSoon Game Club » What To Do Before Getting The PS5 Essential PS4 preparation steps for seamless transition to PS5 gaming experience