The PlayStation 5 (PS5), Sony’s latest entry in the world of gaming, is an engineering marvel that boasts a multitude of fascinating features. While some are easily accessible, others are tucked away, waiting to be discovered by the curious gamer. This article is a comprehensive guide to the PS5’s hidden features, designed to help you get the most out of this powerful console.
1. Turning Off the PS5
Turning off the PS5 might sound like a trivial task, but it isn’t as straightforward as it seems. A single tap on the PlayStation button on your DualSense controller pulls up a menu at the screen’s bottom. Navigate to the far right to find the power icon. Click on it, and you’ll see the option to turn off the PS5. Remember, a long press on the PlayStation button will not bring up this menu, unlike the PS4.
2. File and Game Transfer from PS4
PS5 allows you to transfer files, settings, and even games from your PS4. You’ll be prompted for this during the PS5 setup, but if you’ve skipped it, fret not. You can always do this later. Ensure both the PS4 and PS5 are turned on and have an Ethernet cable connecting them. Go to Settings > System > System Software on the PS5, select Data Transfer, and follow the prompts to transfer your desired content.
3. Tracking Gameplay Duration
PS5 now makes it easy to keep track of how many hours you’ve spent playing your favorite games. Select your avatar on the PS5 home screen and click on ‘Profile’, then the ‘Games’ tab. Here, you’ll see your total playtime alongside each game, making it easier to manage your gaming habits.
4. Play the PS5 Version of the Game
While backward compatibility is a significant PS5 asset, it can create confusion. Ensure you’re playing the PS5 version of your game for an optimal gaming experience. The game’s title on the home screen should indicate the version. If it says ‘PS4’ next to it, you’re playing the PS4 version of the game.
5. Controller Customization
The DualSense controller is a step up from the DualShock 4, offering an immersive gaming experience with its enhanced vibration intensity and adaptive triggers. You can customize these elements under Settings > Accessories > Controllers. You can also use your old DualShock 4 controllers to play PS4 games on the PS5.
6. Experience 3D Audio
One of the standout features of the PS5 is 3D Audio, which provides an immersive gaming experience by enabling sound effects to tie to in-game events. To experience this, connect your headphones or earbuds to the PS5 and head to Settings > Sound > Audio Output. Here, you can enable 3D Audio and adjust the audio profile to suit your preference.
7. Delete Astro’s Playroom Post-Play
Astro’s Playroom, the PS5’s pre-installed game, is a delightful way to get to grips with the new DualSense controller. However, once you’re done with it, you can free up nearly 11GB of storage by deleting it from Settings > Storage > Console Storage > Games and Apps.
8. Expand Your Storage
The PS5’s internal storage might fill up quickly if you have an extensive game library. To mitigate this, Sony has included an internal expansion slot where you can install an approved M.2 SSD drive. Alternatively, you can use an external SSD or HDD that supports USB 3.0 or higher, plugged into a USB port on your PS5.
9. Set Up Game Presets
The PS5 allows you to pre-select various game settings, saving you time when configuring new games. Navigate to Settings > Saved Data > Game/App Settings > Game Presets to set your preferred game difficulty, performance mode, and camera movement options.
10. Capture Screenshots and Videos
The PS5 has a built-in feature for capturing screenshots and videos of your gameplay. By pressing the Create button on your controller, you can take screenshots or record gameplay videos. You can customize this feature under Settings > Captures and Broadcasts > Captures.
11. Set Up Remote Play
Remote Play is an incredibly useful feature that allows you to stream games from your PS5 to a PS4, a PC, a Mac, or even a smartphone. Enable it under Settings > System > Remote Play on your PS5 to enjoy your favorite games on different devices.
12. Guard Against Spoilers
The PS5 has a Spoiler Warnings feature that can help you avoid unwanted reveals. To activate it, go to Settings > Saved Data and Game/App Settings > Spoiler Warnings and adjust the settings to your preference.
13. Control Your PS5 with the Mobile App
By installing the PlayStation App on your phone, you can remotely manage your PS5 console. The app allows you to trigger downloads and updates, manage storage space, and even launch games.
14. Configure Automatic Updates and Rest Mode
The PS5 can download updates, charge controllers, and be controlled remotely via the PlayStation App when in Rest Mode. Configure this mode under Settings > System > Power Saving > Features Available in Rest Mode to make the most of your console, even when you’re not actively using it.
15. Stop Pop-Up Notifications
To avoid being interrupted by pop-up notifications while gaming or watching a movie, tailor your notification preferences. Go to Settings > Notifications and customize the notifications to your liking.
16. Enjoy Free PS5 Games and Trials
The PlayStation Store on the PS5 offers a range of free titles and trials, perfect for gamers on a budget. Browse the PlayStation Store and filter for ‘Free’ games under the ‘Price’ column for a list of cost-free gaming options.
17. Customize Your Control Center
The Control Center offers a range of shortcuts and the power menu. Customize it by pressing the PlayStation button to open the Control Center and then tapping the Options button. Select any icon and use the D-pad to move or hide it from the Control Center.
18. Fix Audio for Blu-rays and DVDs
For optimal audio when watching Blu-rays and DVDs on your PS5, ensure the correct setting is enabled. Insert the disc, hit the Options button on your DualSense controller, select the three dots icon, then Settings > Audio Format, and change it to Bitstream.
19. Get Game Help
PS5 offers a built-in Game Help feature for PS Plus subscribers. This feature provides hints and solutions for the level you’re stuck on. To access it, press the PS button to open the Control Center and select the activity card showing your current level.
20. Reveal the Full Power of Your PS5
The PS5 is set to redefine console gaming with its robust suite of features. From controller customization to 3D audio, the PS5 has a lot to offer. By exploring these hidden features, you can unlock the full potential of your PS5 and redefine your gaming experience.
Summary
Now you are aware of these PS5 hidden features, you can take your PS5 gaming to the next level and impress your friends whilst you’re at it.
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PS5 Features: Exploring the Outstanding Features of the PlayStation 5