Game sharing on the PlayStation 5 (PS5) is a popular way for friends and family to enjoy a wider library of games without purchasing multiple copies. As of 2025, the process has been streamlined, making it easier than ever to share your digital game collection with others. This guide will walk you through every step of setting up game sharing on your PS5, along with important tips and limitations to keep in mind.
What Is Game Sharing on PS5?
Game sharing on PS5 allows you to share your digital game library with another PS5 user. This means that you can play your friend’s games, and they can play yours, without needing to buy the same titles twice. It’s a great way to save money and enjoy a broader selection of games, especially if you and your friend have different tastes in gaming.
Important Things to Know Before You Start
- Digital Games Only: Game sharing is only possible with digitally downloaded content. You cannot share disc-based games unless you physically lend the disc.
- Primary PS5 Console: Each PS5 can only have one primary console. Setting a console as primary allows other users on that console to access your games.
- Account Security: Only share your account with trusted friends or family members. Sharing your account details with others can pose a security risk.
- Internet Connection: A stable internet connection is required to set up and maintain game sharing.
- PlayStation Plus Benefits: If you have an active PlayStation Plus subscription, your friend can also enjoy the benefits, such as online multiplayer and free monthly games.
Step-by-Step Guide to Game Share on PS5
Step 1: Log in to Your PS5 Account
To begin, log in to your PlayStation Network (PSN) account on your PS5. This is the account that has the games you want to share.
Step 2: Go to Settings
Navigate to the main menu and go to the “Settings” option, located at the top right corner of the screen.
Step 3: Select Users and Accounts
In the Settings menu, scroll down and select “Users and Accounts”.
Step 4: Select Other
Within Users and Accounts, scroll down to the “Other” section and select it.
Step 5: Console Sharing and Offline Play
In the Other section, select “Console Sharing and Offline Play.” This setting allows your console to access your digital game library even when offline.
Step 6: Enable Console Sharing and Offline Play
If this option is disabled, enable it. This will set your PS5 as the primary console for your account, allowing other users on this console to access your games.
Step 7: Log in to Your Friend’s PS5
Now, go to your friend’s PS5 and log in using your PSN account credentials. Make sure they log out of their account first.
Step 8: Repeat Steps 2 to 6
Repeat the same steps (go to Settings → Users and Accounts → Other → Console Sharing and Offline Play) on your friend’s PS5. Enable Console Sharing and Offline Play on their console as well.
Step 9: Log Out
Once you have enabled Console Sharing and Offline Play on your friend’s PS5, log out of your PSN account on their console.
Step 10: Enjoy Shared Games
Your friend can now log back into their own PSN account, and they will have access to your digital game library. They can download and play any of the games you own.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Cannot Enable Console Sharing: If you can’t enable console sharing, make sure you are logged into the correct PSN account and that your console is connected to the internet.
- Games Not Appearing: If your games are not appearing on your friend’s console, double-check that you have enabled console sharing correctly on both consoles.
- Primary Console Conflicts: If you’ve already set another PS5 as your primary console, you’ll need to disable console sharing on that console before enabling it on the new one.
FAQs About PS5 Game Sharing
1. Can I game share with more than one person?
No, you can only set one PS5 as your primary console at a time. This means you can only game share with one other PS5.
2. Will game sharing affect my ability to play online?
No, game sharing will not affect your ability to play online. Both you and your friend can play online simultaneously.
3. Can I game share PlayStation Plus benefits?
Yes, if you have an active PlayStation Plus subscription, your friend can also enjoy the benefits, such as online multiplayer and free monthly games.
4. What happens if I change my password?
If you change your PSN password, your friend will need the new password to continue accessing your games. Make sure to update them if this happens.
5. Is game sharing legal?
Yes, game sharing is allowed by Sony as long as it is done within the terms of service, primarily for sharing with family and close friends.
Limitations and Things to Keep in Mind
- PlayStation 5 only supports game sharing between one account and another console. You can’t connect multiple consoles with the same PS5.
- If you want to enable game sharing for co-op or multiplayer games, players may need to purchase their own copy to participate.
- When you share games on PS5, it only includes downloaded titles. If you want to share a physical copy of a game you own, you have to give the borrower the disc. When it’s in their possession, you won’t be able to play it (unless you’re using the same console).
Game sharing on PS5 is a convenient and cost-effective way to enjoy a wider range of games with friends and family. By following these steps and keeping the limitations in mind, you can make the most of your digital game library in 2025.
