Best 10 Tips and Tricks for PlayStation Gamers

Well, you have finally got your PlayStation 5 (or whatever is still PlayStation 4). Either way, there is always a way to step it up. We have compiled a list of 10 simple yet effective tips to make life with your PlayStation that little bit smoother (and more enjoyable). Let’s dive in!

1. Master the Power Button

Alright, PlayStation newbie or veteran— womp, womp. If you have been smashing that power button like a madman, then it is wrong! Here you will only need to tap the PlayStation button once, which allows you to turn off the PS5.

You don’t have to keep it down for a passage of time that was clearly coded in PS4 days. What a simple tap and here we go, you nearing the driver seat.

2. Get Your Games Faster with Storage Upgrades

There is nothing worse than an endless wait as a game loads — except, maybe, going in circles on updates. The PS5 also has a speedy SSD, which helps load games more quickly than the average hard drive but you still have limited space.

Don’t panic, though! Install a M.2 SSD or External Hard Drive to Free Up Space for Your Massive Game Collection Say goodbye to removing the games you love just so you can install a new title. Looking at you, digital content hoarders.

3. Maximize Your PlayStation Network Subscription

Mine got you now PS Network membership to its use? Get with the program! In addition to online multiplayer, you get a selection of free games every month. Yes, free. You can even score deals on select titles at the PlayStation Store, but wait—there’s more. How about specially-designed demos?! Yep, they exist.

4. Spoiler-Free Play

Spoilers suck. It’s science. The PS5 actually has a spoiler warning system built into it. In the case when you are playing and don’t want to know how it ends (because, who knows, perhaps you prefer to experience situations rather than reading all Reddit stories about them) just enable Spoiler Warnings in your options. If only it could do the same thing with Netflix spoilers… Keeping my fingers crossed!

5. Adjust Your Controller Settings for Comfort

If your controller triggers and vibration only go too far, relax. You can adjust those settings in the Accessories tab of the settings. Tune your DualSense just the way you like it, from vibration intensity to trigger sensitivity. Because really, who wants to feel a thrum every time you step into a puddle? You’re not that dramatic.

6. Set Game Presets for Quick Play

Sick of having to change your settings every time you load up a new game? There is actually a shortcut for that, however. Go to Settings > Saved Data > Game/App Settings and choose your presets, such as difficulty level or camera settings You can go directly to the exciting part without all the setup. You’re welcome, gamers.

7. Get Your Friends Together Without Leaving the Couch

The PlayStation Network is more than just an online service where you can play games with your friends; it’s also a way to communicate with them without ever really talking to them (hey, life gets busy).

Have a conversation with the boys, hop into some game sessions through your PS5 or just hit them up via message and let them know who’s dominating in the fresh title. All while eating pizza. Multitasking level 100.

8. Play PS4 Games on PS5

Sitting on some legacy PS4 classics? Slash Gear — Do you have all these games, but want to play them on your shiny new PS5? However there is a caveat — you might be actually playing the PS4 version, not the upgraded PS5 version.

Be sure you are playing the correct version! You do not want to lose out on that tasty PS5 improvement. We assure you, it has the greatest graphics.

9. Capture Screenshots and Videos Like a Pro

Want to show off to the world what feels like years of grinding for that one epic moment of game play? On your controller, press and hold the Create button to take a screenshot or record some game-play.

Or you could get really social, and stream directly from the PS Store or from your PlayStation Network account. Now, all you have to do is figure out how to edit those epic fails… Because we all have em.

10. Don’t Forget About Rest Mode

When you are done gaming but want your PlayStation to remain on, just put it in Rest Mode. Your PS5 will download updates, charge your controller, and be all geared up when you come back.

Your system will just be relaxing its circuits, so no point in feeling bad for leaving it on. You will find this option when you hit the PlayStation button, and it is a real game changer.

Bonus Tip: Shop Smart on the PlayStation Store.

Lastly, and by no means least—work harder, not smarter. Check out the best deals on games, add-ons, and free trials available now through the PlayStation Store. And if we’re honest with ourselves: who doesn’t enjoy a bargain, because PS Plus members get exclusive discounts. It’s like finding bonus fries at the bottom of the bag.

So, there you go, 10 tips to get the most from your PlayStation (plus a little chuckle) When it comes to tricks and tips for your PlayStation 4 or next-gen PS5, these will ensure you play smarter not harder. And if all else fails, blame the controller. Classic blame the controller, huh?