You cannot play original PS2 or PS3 discs on a PS4: the console does not support backward compatibility for those formats. To play a specific older game, look for a separate PS4 remaster or remake, or check whether it is currently available in your region through the PlayStation Plus Classics Catalog. Catalog games may be downloadable or streamable depending on the title and membership plan.
Can a PS4 play PS2 or PS3 discs?
No. Sony’s PS4 backward-compatibility FAQ says the console does not feature backward compatibility for PS3, PS2, or PSone games. An original PS2 or PS3 disc will not work as a PS4 game disc. An adapter, controller, or cable cannot change that compatibility limit.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Ways to play an older game on PS4
Find a PS4 remaster or remake
A remaster or remake released for PS4 is a separate PS4 game, not a way to run the original PS2 or PS3 disc. Sony describes these as downloadable PS4 games in its PlayStation Plus guide. Availability depends on the specific title and its current listing.
For example, Sony’s 2018 PlayStation Now announcement named God of War III Remastered as a PS4 release. It is an example of a separate version; it does not mean the original disc works on PS4 or that the remaster is currently included in a subscription.
#1 Best Overall
- Complete Bundle: Includes the renewed white Nintendo Wii console, one Wii Remote, and all necessary power and AV cables. Everything you need to start playing is in the box.
- Play Two Consoles in One: This is the original RVL-001 model with full hardware backwards compatibility. Play your entire library of Nintendo GameCube games using GameCube controllers and memory cards.
- Revolutionary Motion Controls: Get off the couch and into the game! Experience the intuitive, motion-sensing gameplay that made the Wii a global phenomenon for players of all ages.
- Ready for Modern TVs: Easily connect to modern televisions. (Note: You may want to mention if an HDMI adapter is included or sold separately, as this is a common question for buyers).
Check the PlayStation Plus Classics Catalog
The Classics Catalog can offer eligible games for download or streaming on PS4. Which titles are available, how you can play them, and which membership plan is required depend on the game and market. Check the local listing for the exact title rather than assuming a PS2 or PS3 game is included. Sony’s PS4 game-streaming instructions explain how to access eligible streamed titles.
How to check whether your game is available
- Search for a PS4 version. Look for an official PS4 remaster or remake of the exact game in the PlayStation Store. A PS4 release is separate from the original disc.
- Check the Classics Catalog in your region. Open PlayStation Plus on the PS4 and find the Classics Catalog. Search for the title and check whether its listing offers Download or Stream.
- Confirm the membership requirement. Check the title’s current listing and your local PlayStation Plus plan details. Catalog benefits and game availability can change.
- If streaming, check your connection. Sony’s US support page, current when checked in 2026, lists 5 Mbps as the minimum broadband speed and 15 Mbps for 1080p when supported. Those are requirements, not a guarantee of stream quality; Sony says resolution may be reduced if speed falls below 15 Mbps.
What to expect when streaming
Streaming is different from downloading a PS4 release: it relies on the service, an eligible title, the required membership, and a suitable connection. Sony’s US streaming guidance also lists feature limitations, including that Remote Play is unavailable while a game is streaming. The page notes that when streaming supported PS3 games, the PS3 START and SELECT controls are mapped to the PS4 controller’s touchpad. Check Sony’s current streaming instructions for the applicable details.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Which option should you choose?
| Option | What it means | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Original PS2 or PS3 disc | Does not play natively on PS4. | Use a console that supports the original format, or find another official route. |
| PS4 remaster or remake | A separately released PS4 game, not the original disc. | Whether a version exists for your title and is currently available. |
| Classics Catalog download | An eligible catalog game downloaded to PS4. | Local catalog listing and required membership plan. |
| Classics Catalog stream | An eligible catalog game played via streaming. | Local listing, membership, connection requirements, and streaming limitations. |
Catalog titles, subscription benefits, and regional availability can change. Sony’s US streaming requirements cited above are specific to that support page and should not be treated as a universal guarantee for every market or title.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Quick Recap
Rank #3
- What's in the box: Xbox Series X console, 1 Xbox Wireless Controller - Carbon Black, Ultra High Speed HDMI cable, Power cord.
- Equipped with AMD's Zen 2 and RDNA 2 architectures, DirectX ray tracing delivers true-to-life lighting, shadows and accurate reflections to create dynamic, living worlds.
- Memory: 16GB GDDR6 w/320 bit-wide bus; Memory Bandwidth: 10 GB @ 560 GB/s, 6 GB @ 336 GB/s; Internal Storage: 1TB Custom NVME SSD
- Gaming Resolution: True 4K; Performance Target: Up to 120 FPS; High Dynamic Range: Up to 8K HDR; Optical Drive: 4K UHD Blu-Ray; HDMI Features: Auto Low Latency Mode, HDMI Variable Refresh Rate, AMD FreeSync.
- Bundled with HDMI_Cable
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.
