Sharing games on your PlayStation 5 is a fantastic way to expand your gaming library without breaking the bank. This guide will walk you through the process, explaining how to game share PS5 effectively and addressing common questions.
Understanding PS5 Game Sharing
PS5 game sharing, officially termed "account sharing," allows you to share your digital games and PlayStation Plus benefits with another PlayStation 5 console owner. This means you and a friend or family member can access each other's digital game libraries without purchasing duplicate copies. This is different from simply lending a physical game disc; game sharing applies only to digital purchases.
What You Need to Game Share PS5
Before you begin, ensure you have the following:
- Two PlayStation 5 consoles: Game sharing requires two separate PS5 systems.
- Two PlayStation Network (PSN) accounts: Each console needs its own PSN account.
- A strong internet connection: The process involves online account management.
Step-by-Step Guide to PS5 Game Sharing
Follow these steps to successfully share your games:
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Sign in to your primary account: On the PS5 console where you've purchased the digital games, log in to your main PSN account. This is the account that owns the digital licenses. This console becomes your primary PS5.
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Make your PS5 your primary console: Go to Settings > Users and Accounts > Other > Console Sharing and Offline Play > Make this your Primary PS5.
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Sign in to the secondary account: On the other PS5 console, log in to the PSN account of the person you want to share games with. This is your secondary PS5.
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Access shared games: The secondary PS5 will now have access to the digital games and PlayStation Plus benefits associated with the primary PSN account. The user on the secondary PS5 can download and play these games as if they had purchased them.
Important Note: The primary account holder must remain logged in to the primary PS5 at least once every six months or so to ensure that the access to those games on the secondary console remains. This helps prevent account security issues.
Troubleshooting Common PS5 Game Sharing Problems
- Games aren't appearing: Double-check that you've correctly designated your primary PS5 and that both consoles are connected to the internet.
- Error messages: Refer to the error messages provided on your screen for troubleshooting help. Many issues are resolved by restarting your console, reinstalling the game, or checking your internet connection.
- PlayStation Plus benefits not sharing: Ensure that both accounts are active PlayStation Plus subscribers.
- Account security concerns: Use strong passwords for your PSN accounts to maintain the security and privacy of your account information.
Things to Keep in Mind When Game Sharing PS5
- Only digital games are shared: Physical game discs cannot be shared through this method.
- One primary console per account: You can only designate one PS5 as your primary console per account.
- Responsibilty: You are responsible for the activity performed on the secondary console under your primary account.
- Game updates: Any game updates will be downloaded and installed on the secondary PS5.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I share PS5 games with multiple people?
A: No, game sharing is designed for one secondary PS5 console per primary account.
Q: What happens if I change my primary PS5?
A: The games will no longer be accessible on the previously designated secondary PS5.
Q: Can I share save data?
A: Save data is not directly shared. Each player will have their own individual save files.
By following these steps and understanding the nuances of PS5 game sharing, you can effectively share your games and maximize your gaming experience. Remember to always prioritize the security of your PlayStation Network account.
