Can you play with someone on a PS3 if you have a PS4?

ByJames Dorn Last Update on

No, you cannot directly play multiplayer games together between the PlayStation 3 and PlayStation 4 consoles. This is due to fundamental architectural differences that make the two systems incompatible.

Why PS3 and PS4 Can‘t Play Together

The PS3 uses the exotic Cell processor with 7 SPU cores, while the PS4 utilizes a more standard x86-64 AMD Jaguar CPU. In addition, the PS4 has newer GPU architecture, GDDDR5 RAM versus the PS3‘s XDR RAM, and overall higher computing horsepower. Game engines and netcode would have to be specifically ported and optimized across the two console platforms for cross-play functionality.

Workarounds: Stream, Cross-Gen, and PS2 Classics

While direct multiplayer between PS3 and PS4 isn‘t possible, clever gamers have found some workarounds:

PlayStation Now Game Streaming

  • Stream 400+ PS3 games on PS4/PS5
  • Includes popular last-gen multiplayer titles
  • Can play with PS3 users online via cloud

Cross-Generational Games

  • Some PS4 games work with PS3
    • Call of Duty: Ghosts (4v4 MPs, co-op)
    • Battlefield 4 (64 players)
    • Injustice: Gods Among Us
  • Sync progress and some features across platforms

Backwards Compatible PS2 Games

  • Select remastered PS2 games with intact multiplayer
    • Star Wars: Battlefront 1 & 2
    • Rogue Galaxy
  • PS4 and PS3 gamers can squad up

According to industry analyst Daniel Ahmed, there were still 10 million monthly active PS3 users in 2019. So while the console is now last-gen, people definitely still enjoy playing their favorite PS3 games online if the servers are kept running.

Can You Play PS3 Games on PS5?

The PlayStation 5 also does not natively support playing PlayStation 3 games. While first-party PS4 titles can be played via backwards compatibility, the PS5 lacks the Cell architecture required for PS3 game support.

However, with a PlayStation Now membership you can stream select PS3 games. Some of these support online multiplayer with PS3 players. Direct multiplayer between native PS5 and PS3 games is still restricted due to platform limitations.

The Cross-Play Revolution

While intergenerational PlayStation cross-play has its hurdles, cross-play between competing consoles is becoming more commonplace. Epic‘s shift to allow Fortnite cross-play across PS4, Xbox One, Switch, and PC in 2018 represented a watershed moment. Sony has become more open to rival console cross-play in recent years.

As online multiplayer participation continues to rise, gamer demand for playing with friends regardless of platform will push companies to expand support. The next generation of PlayStation gamers can remain hopeful the cross-play revolution still moves forward.

James K. Dorn, a passionate gamer deeply immersed in the world of video gaming. My journey in gaming is not just about playing; it's about exploring every facet of the games I love. I am particularly fascinated by the intricate worlds of role-playing games like "The Witcher" series and "Elder Scrolls: Skyrim," where every decision shapes the story.

As a strategy game enthusiast, I spend hours devising tactics in games like "Civilization VI" and "StarCraft II," always eager to share my strategies with fellow gamers. I'm also an ardent follower of the ever-evolving landscape of indie games, finding gems like "Hollow Knight" and "Celeste" that offer unique, compelling experiences.

My content isn't just reviews; it's about deep dives into game mechanics, storytelling, and the art of game design. I love dissecting the narratives of games like "The Last of Us" and discussing the innovative gameplay of titles like "Death Stranding."

Being at the forefront of gaming news, I eagerly anticipate and share insights on upcoming releases like the next big open-world adventure or the latest in the "Final Fantasy" series. My goal is to build a community where we not only play games but also appreciate the artistry and effort behind them. Join me in this gaming journey, where every session is an adventure, and every game is a story waiting to be told.

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