PS4 has cloud-based backwards compatibility

PS1, PS2, PS3 games on PS4

Recommended Videos

Backwards compatibility of some kind has always been a feature of PlayStation platforms since the PS2. The PS2 could play PS1 games and for a solid chunk of time the PS3 could play both PS2 and PS1 games. The PS4 is set to have that, too, but this time around it’ll be cloud-based, where gamers can play and stream older games via Gaikai, according to Gaikai CEO Dave Perry. It’s part of their “Everything Everywhere” philosophy.

While I can hear some of the internet groan at the prospect of having to cloud-play their older games, it’s a decent solution that’s not too pushy on the hardware front (at least in terms of having to include extra hardware just for compatibility’s sake) and can theoretically last through multiple generations. I could see this solution being available for gamers to play PS4 games with by the time the PS5 and its successors join the fray.

Check out ALL the PlayStation 4 coverage from today’s event here. Console specs revealed, new controller detailed, and tons of games announced!


Destructoid is supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission. Learn more
related content
Read Article Fortnite 29.30 patch notes: Billie Eilish Fortnite Festival, new Marvel crossover, more
Billie Eilish on stage during Fortnite Festival
Read Article Zenless Zone Zero is open for pre-registration, and over 30 million have already signed up
Zenless Zone Zero key art
Read Article Metaphor: ReFantazio locks in an October release date, showcases more gameplay in trailer
Metaphor ReFantazio date
Related Content
Read Article Fortnite 29.30 patch notes: Billie Eilish Fortnite Festival, new Marvel crossover, more
Billie Eilish on stage during Fortnite Festival
Read Article Zenless Zone Zero is open for pre-registration, and over 30 million have already signed up
Zenless Zone Zero key art
Read Article Metaphor: ReFantazio locks in an October release date, showcases more gameplay in trailer
Metaphor ReFantazio date
Author
Josh Tolentino
Contributor - When not posting about Japanese games or Star Trek, Josh served as Managing Editor for Japanator. Now he mostly writes for Destructoid's buddies at Siliconera, but pops back in on occasion.