How To Game Share On PS5: Complete Short Step-by-Step Guide

Game sharing on the PlayStation 5 revolutionizes the way we experience gaming. By allowing gamers to access each other’s libraries, it effectively doubles the number of games available to you without additional purchases. This is especially beneficial for gamers on a budget or those who wish to try out games before buying them. The feature is built upon the concept of a ‘Primary Console’, where your primary console is designated as the main device for your digital purchases. When you set up another PS5 as your primary console, users on that console can access and play the games you’ve purchased. This process is reciprocal, meaning you can also access your friend’s game library if they make your PS5 their primary console. Before we show you how to game share on PS5, it’s crucial to understand that this feature should be used responsibly and ethically. The PlayStation Network (PSN) terms of service have specific guidelines on sharing, and misuse can lead to account restrictions. Game sharing is intended for sharing within a household or with close friends and not for broader distribution.

Step-by-Step Guide to Game Sharing on PS5

The process of game sharing on PS5, while straightforward, requires attention to detail to ensure it’s done correctly and securely.

1. Understanding Primary Console: The most crucial step is understanding the concept of the ‘Primary Console’. When you make a PS5 your primary console, anyone logged into that console can access your games. Conversely, on a non-primary console, only you can access your games. This is why both you and your friend will need to set each other’s consoles as the primary one for each other’s accounts.
2. Account Management: When logging into your PSN account on your friend’s PS5, make sure to manage your account settings appropriately. Be mindful of the information you leave accessible, such as payment methods or personal details.
3. Downloading Games: After setting up primary consoles, you and your friend can download games from each other’s libraries. Go to the ‘Game Library’ on your PS5 home screen, where you’ll see all available games, including those purchased by your friend.
4. Regular Checks: Regularly check your account for any unfamiliar activity. Since your account is logged into another console, staying vigilant about your account security is paramount.
5. Resetting Primary Console: If you decide to stop game sharing or want to share with a different friend, you’ll need to deactivate your account as the primary one on your friend’s console and vice versa.

Safety and Etiquette in Game Sharing

When engaging in game sharing on the PS5, prioritizing safety and adhering to proper etiquette is paramount. This not only ensures a smooth experience but also protects your digital assets and personal information. Here are some key points to consider:

Account Security

1. Strong Passwords: Use strong, unique passwords for your PSN account to prevent unauthorized access.
2. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Enable 2FA for an added layer of security. This step is crucial as it significantly reduces the risk of account hacking.
3. Personal Information: Be cautious about the personal information accessible on your account. Remove sensitive details, especially payment information, before sharing your account.
4. Regular Monitoring: Regularly monitor your account for any unusual activity. This includes checking for unauthorized purchases or changes to account details.

Sharing Etiquette

1. Trustworthy Circle: Only share with people you trust implicitly. This is typically limited to close friends or family members.
2. Respecting Privacy: Respect the privacy of the person you’re sharing with. Avoid snooping through their personal messages or account details.
3. Game Purchases: Be clear about who purchases which game to avoid misunderstandings. Some choose to split costs for new games, while others might alternate purchases.
4. Limit Sharing: Understand that game sharing is meant to be a personal arrangement, not a wide-scale distribution of games. Sharing with too many people can lead to complications and potential account issues.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

1. Adherence to Terms of Service: Familiarize yourself with Sony’s Terms of Service regarding game sharing. Violating these terms can result in account suspension or banning.
2. Piracy and Illegal Sharing: Never use game sharing as a means for piracy or illegal distribution of games. This is not only unethical but also illegal and can have severe consequences.
3. Communication: Maintain open communication with your game-sharing partner. If you plan to stop sharing, or if there are any issues, inform them promptly.

Respect for Developers

1. Supporting Developers: While game sharing is a fantastic way to save money and try new games, consider supporting game developers by purchasing games you truly enjoy.
2. Limitations of Sharing: Understand that some content, like certain DLCs or in-game purchases, might not be shareable. Each game might have different rules regarding what can be shared.

PS5 Backwards Compatibility

An added bonus to game sharing on PS5 is its backwards compatibility with most PS4 games. This feature significantly expands the range of games available for sharing. When you game share on PS5, not only can you access your friend’s PS5 game library, but also most of their PS4 library, provided they are digital versions. This backwards compatibility includes enhanced performance on many PS4 titles when played on the PS5, offering improved frame rates and resolutions.

However, it’s important to note that some PS4 games may not be compatible or may have limited functionality on the PS5. Always check the game’s compatibility on the official PlayStation website or through the PS5 console before attempting to download or play a shared PS4 game on your PS5. This feature adds another layer of value to game sharing, making it a more enticing option for gamers looking to expand their gaming experiences.

Conclusion

Game sharing on the PS5 opens up a world of possibilities, allowing gamers to explore a greater variety of games and experiences. By following these simple steps, you can safely and efficiently share your game library with a friend. Remember to always prioritize account security and respect each other’s purchases. Enjoy the expanded gaming horizons that PS5 game sharing brings!