What To Know
- Game sharing on PlayStation 4 is a feature that allows two PlayStation 4 users to share their digital game libraries with each other.
- If you purchase DLC for a game that you are sharing with a friend, only you will be able to access that DLC.
- If you and your friend are trying to play the same shared game simultaneously, you will need to purchase two separate copies of the game.
PlayStation 4 is known for its vast library of games and its innovative features, one of which is game sharing. Game sharing allows PlayStation 4 users to share their digital games with friends, enabling them to play the same games without having to purchase them separately. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the intricacies of game sharing on PlayStation 4, including how it works, its benefits, limitations, and step-by-step instructions on how to set it up.
How Does Game Sharing Work?
Game sharing on PlayStation 4 is a feature that allows two PlayStation 4 users to share their digital game libraries with each other. Once game sharing is enabled between two accounts, both users can access and play the games that the other person has purchased from the PlayStation Store. This means that you can share your games with a friend, and they can share their games with you, effectively doubling your game collection without having to spend extra money.
Benefits of Game Sharing:
1. Cost Savings: Game sharing allows you to save money by sharing the cost of games with a friend. Instead of each of you purchasing the same game separately, you can buy it once and share it with each other. This can be especially beneficial for expensive games or games that you may not play very often.
2. Increased Game Variety: Game sharing expands your gaming options by giving you access to a wider variety of games. You can play games that your friend has purchased that you might not have considered otherwise. This can help you discover new games and genres that you might enjoy.
3. Convenience: Game sharing is convenient because it allows you to access your friend’s games without having to physically exchange discs or download the games yourself. You can simply log in to your PlayStation 4 account on your friend’s console and start playing their games.
Limitations of Game Sharing:
1. Simultaneous Play: Only one person can play a shared game at a time. If you and your friend both want to play the same game simultaneously, you will need to purchase two separate copies of the game.
2. DLC and Add-Ons: DLC (Downloadable Content) and add-ons purchased for a shared game are not shared between accounts. If you purchase DLC for a game that you are sharing with a friend, only you will be able to access that DLC.
3. Game Availability: Game sharing is only available for digital games purchased from the PlayStation Store. Physical game discs cannot be shared between accounts.
How to Set Up Game Sharing on PlayStation 4:
1. Create a PlayStation Network Account: Both you and your friend need to have PlayStation Network accounts to enable game sharing. If you don’t already have an account, you can create one for free on the PlayStation website or through your PlayStation 4 console.
2. Add Each Other as Friends: Once you have PlayStation Network accounts, you need to add each other as friends. To do this, search for each other’s usernames on the PlayStation Network and send friend requests.
3. Activate Primary Console: On your PlayStation 4 console, go to “Settings” > “Account Management” > “Activate as Primary PS4.” This will set your console as the primary console for your account.
4. Enable Game Sharing: On your friend’s PlayStation 4 console, go to “Settings” > “Account Management” > “Game Sharing and Offline Play.” Select “Enable Game Sharing” and enter your PlayStation Network account information.
5. Verify Game Sharing: Once you have enabled game sharing, you should be able to see your friend’s games in your game library. To verify that game sharing is working, try playing one of your friend’s games.
Troubleshooting Game Sharing Issues:
1. Game Not Appearing in Library: If you can’t see your friend’s games in your game library, make sure that both of you have enabled game sharing correctly. Also, check that the games you are trying to share are digital games purchased from the PlayStation Store.
2. Can’t Play Shared Game Simultaneously: If you and your friend are trying to play the same shared game simultaneously, you will need to purchase two separate copies of the game. Game sharing only allows one person to play a shared game at a time.
3. DLC and Add-Ons Not Shared: If you have purchased DLC or add-ons for a shared game, only you will be able to access that DLC. DLC and add-ons are not shared between accounts.
Wrapping Up:
Game sharing on PlayStation 4 is a great way to save money, expand your gaming options, and enjoy games with friends. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily set up game sharing and start sharing your games with your friends. With game sharing, you can double your game collection and enjoy a wider variety of games without breaking the bank.
FAQ:
Q: Can I share games with more than one friend?
A: No, game sharing is limited to two PlayStation 4 accounts. You can only share games with one friend at a time.
Q: Can I share physical game discs?
A: No, game sharing is only available for digital games purchased from the PlayStation Store. Physical game discs cannot be shared between accounts.
Q: What happens if I deactivate my primary console?
A: If you deactivate your primary console, your friend will no longer be able to access your shared games.
