PS5 Will Support PS4 Accessories, But You Can't Use The DualShock 4 For Next-Gen Games

With the PlayStation 5 just around the corner, Sony has detailed how peripherals will work on the next-gen console. While some existing PS4 peripherals will be usable on PS5, your likely main point of interface--the DualShock 4 controller--will not make the jump. Unlike the very similar Xbox Series X and Xbox One controllers, it appears the DualSense is simply too different from its predecessor compatibility. However, you can still use the DualShock 4 on your older library. Certain other accessories will also work if connected a certain way. This means you don't want to start selling them off just yet.

In a post on the PlayStation Blog, Sony explained that PS5 games will not be compatible with the DualShock, because it feels that the games "should take advantage of the new capabilities and features we're bringing to the platform, including the features of DualSense wireless controller."

The PS4 DualShock and licensed third-party controllers will work with supported PS4 games on PS5.

There will be some accessories that do work across generations, however. The PlayStation Camera will work for PS VR supported games, with an adapter that will be offered free to PS VR users. Similarly, PS Move controllers and the PS VR Aim controller will work with VR games on PS5. The blog also states that specialty peripherals like licensed racing wheels, arcade sticks, and flight sticks will also work, along with Platinum and Gold wireless headsets, and any third-party headsets that connect via USB or audio jack.

Microsoft's next-gen console, the Xbox Series X, will also sport a new controller, but you don't necessarily need one. Microsoft has already announced that Xbox One controllers will be compatible with Xbox Series X.

PS5 Accessory Compatibility

• PS4 DualShock controllers (supported PS4 games only)
• Licensed third-party PS4 controllers (supported PS4 games only)
• Specialty peripherals (licensed racing wheels, arcade sticks, flight sticks)
• Platinum and Gold wireless headsets
• Third-party headsets with USB or audio jack (no headset companion app)
• PS Move and PS Aim controllers (for PS VR)
• PlayStation Camera (for PS VR)