DualShock 4 controller will work on PS5, but only while playing PS4 games
There's good news and bad news for fans of the PlayStation 4 as Sony has confirmed your old Dualshock 4 controller will work with PlayStation 5 hardware, but only some of the time.
The PS5 is finally edging closer, and as gamers excitedly look at what's coming next, Sony is lifting the lid on which hardware and accessories will work on its next savvy system. Like it or not, it sounds like you'll be spending most of your PS5 playtime getting to grips with the new DualSense controller.
Confirmation from PlayStation blog
The latest news from the PlayStation blog is a kick in the teeth for those who thought they could get away without having to buy extra (and likely expensive) DualSense controllers for co-op and multiplayer. Yes, you'll be able to avoid that for PS4 games, but surely one of the big pulls of the PS5 is to play the next big title in 2021?
All isn't lost though. It's important to remember that the DualSense is a little more advanced than Microsoft's rivals. As well as some boosted haptic feedback and trigger systems, there's a new in-built microphone. It's only a little perk, but there are also rumours the DualSense's panels can be removed and you'll be able to customise the controller.
Click to enlargeWhile the Xbox Series X is embracing the old with the new when it comes to controllers, the DualShock 4 will have to be used sparingly. A final blow is the fact third-party controllers will be left in the dust unless you're playing a PS4 game.
Just like any new generation of hardware, expect manufacturers to be working on their own DualSense homages to get a piece of the PS5 pie.
With so much crossover between games and the likes of Cyberpunk 2077, Marvel's Avengers, and Destiny 2 all getting a PS5 upgrade from their PS4 counterparts, it makes sense that Sony wants to try and bridge the gap between current and next-gen consoles.
Although the PS4 is still one of the best-selling consoles of all time, one big critique was its stern stance on backwards compatibility.
It's unclear whether multiplayer-heavy games like Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Siege will kindly let you stick with your DualShock 4 controller or force you to upgrade to the DualSense, but expect to find out more as Sony ramps up marketing for the PlayStation 5.
