Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE) dropped a lot of new information on the PS5 earlier today, and one of the most exciting details revealed is the free PS5 game upgrade for PS4 titles. If you own either the digital or physical copy of a PS4 game that is backward-compatible with the next generation console, you will be able to upgrade to the PS5 version for free.

That being said, there is a caveat: if you’ve got a physical copy of a PS4 game, you can only get the free upgrade on the regular PS5. Here is SIE’s statement regarding this:

The PS4 digital versions of launch games include a free upgrade on both PS5 consoles, while the PS4 disc versions of these games include a free upgrade on the PS5 with Ultra HD Blu-Ray disc drive.

Basically, if you’ve got the digital copy of a PS4 game in your account, you will be able to play the game on both version of the PS5 – the standard model and the more affordable Digital Edition. However, if you only own the physical version, you’ll need to get the regular PS5 with a disc drive to enjoy the free upgrade.

This suggests that you’ll need to insert the PS4 disc into the PS5 in order to play the game, which makes sense to prove that you own the game. Obviously, this cannot be done with the disc-less Digital Edition, so if the majority of your PS4 games are in physical format, it’s best to go for the standard PS5.

Despite not sporting a disc drive, the PS5 Digital Edition should prove to be a viable option for gamers who prefer the convenience of digital copies. On top of that, it’s definitely a good alternative for those who are on a tighter budget. After all, it costs $100 less than the standard model, and you’re still getting the same level of performance.

To recap, the standard PlayStation 5 retails at $499 (about RM2,065), while the Digital Edition costs $399 (approximately RM1,650) in the US. Both PS5 systems will be available globally from 19 November onwards, which should also include the Malaysian market.

Pre-orders for the PS5 have already started in certain markets, so there’s a very good chance Malaysian pre-order of the next generation console will begin very soon. Rest assured, we will keep a close eye on this.