The latest PS5 firmware update is exciting, featuring some highly anticipated features like Discord integration. However, beyond its more hyped-up features lies a more subtle but nonetheless important change that is worth taking a closer look at.
Unifying Digital and Physical Games under one System with PS5's Latest Update
Sony has modified how installed games are treated, merging digital and physical games into one unified system.
The latest firmware update for the PlayStation 5 (PS5) has been met with excitement over its headline features of Discord integration and other improvements, as explained further in an article by IGN. However, a smaller and potentially equally significant change that has flown beneath the radar has also been introduced.
Unified Approach: Disc and Digital Versions of Games are Now Compatible
According to the story by Push Square, this change from Sony relates to a unified approach to physical and digital games. Users can now play installed digital versions of a game that another user has bought on the same PS5 simply by inserting the disc version of the game.
This works in the opposite direction, so if the game was downloaded and not purchased for the console, the purchased disc version can be used to play the game without it needing to be installed.
Sell Physical Copies of Games While Retaining Access on PS5
This also extends to games purchased through the PlayStation Plus Extra service. The implications of this patch extend far beyond merely being more convenient. With the aforementioned mechanic, it is possible to sell physical copies of games and retain access to the titles in some capacity.
Of course, with most transactions, there will be a cost involved, but the discount revue of the PS Plus Extra service could lead to downsizing a user's physical games collection while maintaining access to the titles. This small change has the potential to be the start of a new way to manage game collections on the PS5.
How PlayStation's Digital Library Management Can Transform the Gaming Experience
Gone could be the days of needing to keep physical copies of every game you own, and potentially bring in new ways of managing and monetizing digital libraries. Time will tell if this mechanic transforms how users buy and play games on their PS5 consoles.
This is a great step forward from Sony. It's a small detail that can make a big difference in a gamer's day-to-day life. Gamers wanting to update their console can follow the steps shared by PlayStation.
Read Also: Microsoft is Selling 'Velocity Green' Xbox Series X|S Controller at $65
Neat Changes that should not be Overlooked in PS5 Firmware Update
This feature should make it much easier to keep games organized, freeing up clutter and providing more convenience. It's a neat but often overlooked addition to the update and one that certainly shouldn't be overlooked.
Sony's alteration to how installed games are handled on the PS5 is a small but welcome change that offers gamers a new level of convenience and flexibility. It may be overlooked in favor of the more prominent additions of the firmware update, but it deserves recognition.
Related Article: PS5 Gamers Can Now Use Discord's Voice Chat Features
