You cannot play a PS3 game disc on a PS5. To play a PS3 game on PS5, check whether it is currently offered for streaming in your region’s PlayStation Plus Classics Catalog. Sony describes classic PS3 catalog games as streaming-only; if you want to use an original disc, you need a PS3 console.
Can a PS5 play PS3 discs?
No. Sony says PS5 consoles do not support PS3 discs. The PS5 disc drive, including on a disc-equipped model, does not provide a supported way to run PS3-format games. See Sony’s PS5 backward compatibility guidance.
A PS3 console is a separate way to play PS3-format software, not an accessory or workaround that makes a disc playable on PS5. Sony’s PS3 system manual describes the referenced model as designed to play PS3-format software; its qualification about limited backward compatibility applies to that manual’s model, not necessarily every PS3.
How to play a PS3 game on PS5 through streaming
Sony offers a selection of classic PS3 games through the PlayStation Plus Classics Catalog. Availability depends on the specific title and your region, so search the current local catalog rather than assuming a game is included. Sony’s US catalog FAQ says classic PS3 titles in the catalog are streaming-only, not downloadable for play on PS5. Catalog access is associated with PlayStation Plus Premium on Sony’s US plan pages; names and benefits may vary by market and can change.
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- On the PS5 Games home screen, open PlayStation Plus.
- Go to Benefits and select Classics Catalog.
- Search for the specific PS3 game and confirm it is available in your region.
- Open the eligible title and choose Stream. You need the applicable membership and a broadband connection.
Sony lists 5 Mbps as the minimum connection speed for Classics Catalog streaming and 15 Mbps as the minimum for streaming a supported game in 1080p. These are Sony’s published requirements, not a guarantee of smooth play: actual performance can depend on the connection and network conditions. Check Sony’s streaming instructions and requirements.
Using PS3 controls with a DualSense
Some streamed PS3 games refer to the original controller’s SELECT and START buttons. Sony maps these commands to the DualSense touchpad: click its left side for SELECT and its right side for START. Touching or tapping the touchpad without clicking will not register those commands.
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Streaming restrictions to know
Sony lists features and devices that are unavailable during a streamed game session. You cannot use broadcasting, Share Play, Share Screen, Remote Play, a mouse, a keyboard, PSVR, PS Camera or HD Camera, or a third-party controller while streaming. Review Sony’s current streaming limitations if a particular feature matters to you.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Choose the route that fits your game
| What you want to do | Route | What to keep in mind |
|---|---|---|
| Play an original PS3 disc | Use a PS3 console designed for PS3-format software. | PS5 does not support PS3 discs. |
| Play a classic PS3 game on PS5 | Find it in your region’s Classics Catalog and stream it with the applicable PlayStation Plus plan. | Only selected titles are offered; classic PS3 catalog games are streaming-only, and availability can change. |
Sony’s US pages were checked on October 7, 2026. Catalog selections and plan benefits can change, and the US catalog is not a region-by-region availability list. Outside the US, check your local PlayStation Plus plan and catalog. Sony also notes that some catalog games may have an end date and be removed.
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