Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Not directly: PS4 does not play original PS3 discs or downloads as PS3 software. You may be able to stream selected PS3 games through PlayStation Plus Premium in supported markets, or download a separate PS4 remaster or remake if one exists. For the original PS3 version, use a PS3; RPCS3 is a PC option, not a PS4 app.
What works on PS4—and what does not
Sony’s PlayStation 4 FAQ states: “No, the PS4 system does not feature backward compatibility for PS3, PS2, or PSone games.” That means inserting an original PS3 disc or accessing an original PS3 download does not make it playable natively on PS4.
There are two different ways a PS3-era game may still be playable on PS4: stream an eligible original PS3 game through Sony’s subscription service, or play a separate PS4 edition of the game. Neither option makes the PS4 compatible with the original PS3 software.
Option 1: Stream selected PS3 games with PlayStation Plus Premium
Sony lists original PS3 games as cloud-streaming titles in select markets. Streaming is a PlayStation Plus Premium benefit, and the PS4 can stream eligible titles from the service’s catalog. Availability depends on your region, membership, and the game’s current catalog status. The catalog can change, and not every PS3 game is included.
#1 Best Overall
- "Suspend mode" eliminates the load time on your saved game and allows you to immediately return to where you left off by pressing the power button.
- Enables the greatest game developers in the world to unlock their creativity and push the boundaries of play through a platform that is tuned specifically to their needs.
- Engage in endless personal challenges between you and your community, and share your epic moments for the world to see.
- Gamers can share their epic triumphs by hitting the "SHARE button" on the controller, scan through the last few minutes of gameplay, tag it and return to the game.
Before subscribing, search the PlayStation Plus game catalog for the exact title and check that it is available to stream in your region. The streamed PS3 version is not installed locally as a PS4 game.
Connection requirements
Sony’s PS4 catalog access guide lists a minimum broadband speed of 5 Mbps for streaming and 15 Mbps for 1080p. Sony notes that resolution depends on the title and connection, so meeting the speed figure does not guarantee 1080p in every case.
Rank #2
- Incredible games; Endless entertainment.
- All new lighter slimmer PS4
- 1 TB hard drive
- Blu-ray technology, delivers exceptional video quality.
- Redefine your gaming expectations and immerse yourself in moments so intense your intuition takes over.
Option 2: Download a PS4 remaster or remake
Some PS3 games have a distinct remastered or remake edition released for PS4. If the specific edition is available to you, you can download and play it as PS4 software. Sony distinguishes those downloadable PS4 and PS5 versions from original PS3 games, which are in the streaming category.
Look up the title and edition in the PlayStation Store. A PS4 remaster or remake is a separate release: owning the original PS3 disc does not make that disc playable on PS4, and availability or upgrade entitlements should be checked for the exact game.
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Rank #3
- Includes a new slim 1TB PlayStation 4 system, a matching DualShock 4 Wireless Controller.
- Play online with your friends, save games online and more with PlayStation Plus membership (sold separately).
- All the greatest, games, TV, music and more. Connect with your friends to broadcast and celebrate your epic moments at the press of the Share button to Twitch, YouTube, Facebook and Twitter.
- Mount is not included
Option 3: Play on a PC with RPCS3
RPCS3 is a free, open-source PS3 emulator and debugger for desktop computers. Its project lists Windows, Linux, macOS, and FreeBSD as supported platforms; it is not a PS4 application and does not provide a way to run PS3 games on a PS4.
Compatibility is game-specific and can change. Check the RPCS3 compatibility list for the particular game rather than assuming that every title works. This route is relevant if you have a suitable PC, not if you are looking for a PS4 setting or download.
Rank #4
- Incredible games. Endless entertainment.
- All new lighter slimmer PS4
- 1TB hard drive
- All the greatest, games, TV, music and more
Option 4: Use a PS3 console
A PS3 console is the direct console option for original PS3-format discs and software. Sony’s PS3 manual describes the system as designed to play PS3-format software. If buying a used or refurbished console, verify its condition, price, and compatibility with the game and region with the seller.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Which option should you choose?
| What you want | Best-fit route | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| The original PS3 version on a PS4 | PlayStation Plus Premium streaming, if the title is offered | Current catalog, regional availability, membership, and connection |
| A locally playable PS4 edition | Download the game’s PS4 remaster or remake, if one exists | Exact edition and current PlayStation Store availability |
| Original PS3-format software on a console | Use a PS3 | Console condition and game compatibility |
| A PC-based alternative | Check RPCS3 | Supported desktop platform and the game’s current compatibility listing |
The right choice depends on the title and whether you require the original PS3 version. Check the game’s current streaming availability or PS4 release before choosing a subscription, purchase, or hardware route.
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Best Value
![Playstation SONY 4, 500GB Slim System [CUH-2215AB01], Black, 3003347 (Renewed)](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31aelHds6gL._SL160_.jpg)
- Includes a slim 500GB PlayStation4 system, a matching DualShock 4 Wireless Controller, Power Cord and HDMI Cable.
- Play online with your friends, get free games, save games online and more with PlayStation Plus membership (sold separately).
- All the greatest, games, TV, music and more. Connect with your friends to broadcast and celebrate your epic moments at the press of the Share button to Twitch, YouTube, Facebook and Twitter.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
