You’ve finally got your shiny new PS5, but don’t know where to start? We’ve been there before. Begin your PS5 gaming adventure with these pointers and activities.
So you’ve gotten your hands on a PlayStation 5. You’ve opened the box, taken a moment to admire how big it is, and plugged in your new console. Now you’re ready to play games on the next level.
We know you can’t wait to get started, but there are a few things you should do with your PlayStation 5 first to get the most out of your experience. This guide will walk you through the steps you need to take as soon as you turn on your PS5.
1. Create Your Account
When you first turn on your PlayStation 5, you’ll need to pair your DualSense wireless controller with the console using the included USB cable.
Select your language, connect to Wi-Fi, and insert a game disc by following the on-screen instructions (if you have one). If you have your PS5 in a vertical position, make sure the printed part of the disc is facing left or upwards if it is in a horizontal position (the disc label should face the power and eject buttons in either position).
You will then be prompted to select your power mode and update the console. After that, you can sign into your existing PlayStation Network account or create a new one. After you sign in, you’ll be given some security options and the chance to move your PS4 game data to your PS5. You can do this later if you want to.
Finally, you can use your Android or iOS device to download the PlayStation app and stay connected while managing your PS5. To name a few features, you can use this app to chat with your friends, download games, and get the latest gaming news.
2. Adjust Your Microphone and Privacy Settings
One of the reasons we like the PS5 DualSense controller is that it has a built-in microphone that allows you to chat with friends without using a headset. However, you probably don’t want your microphone broadcasting all the time, so customize this setting as soon as you set up your console.
While you can mute your microphone by pressing the microphone button on the controller, you may forget to do so at times. To avoid this, go to Settings > Sound > Microphone > Microphone Status When Logged In and select Mute to turn off your microphone by default every time you log in.
You can also check your privacy settings to ensure that you’re only sharing information with which you’re comfortable. To do this, go to Settings > Users and Accounts > Privacy and change the settings there to suit your needs.
3. Enable Automatic Updates.
Waiting for a game or system update to download can be aggravating, especially when you’re eager to get into a new game. Other times, you may forget to do it manually. However, given the importance of keeping your PS5 up to date and having the most recent security patches, we recommend you don’t skip this step.
Fortunately, you don’t have to be concerned because you can enable auto-updates and auto-install on your PlayStation 5 to ensure that it updates itself even when it’s in Rest Mode. Go to Settings > Saved Data and Game/App Settings > Automatic Updates to do so. You can enable Auto-Download and Auto-Install in Rest Mode from here.
4. Customize Energy Saving Options
Because the PS5 consumes a lot of power, you shouldn’t leave it on when you’re not using it. Furthermore, one of the main drawbacks of the DualSense controller is its short battery life. The good news is that there are several methods for extending the life of your PS5 DualSense controller’s battery and limiting the console’s power consumption.
To change your power saving settings, go to Settings > System > Power Saving. Set Time Until PS5 Enters Rest Mode, Features Available in Rest Mode, and Set Time Until Controllers Turn Off are all available here.
You can change these settings to suit your needs. But, under Rest Mode Features, we suggest turning on “Stay Connected to the Internet” so that your PS5 can keep downloading games and updates even when it is in Rest Mode.
5. Turn off Trophy Video Saving.
The PS5 has an interesting feature that allows you to save videos of your most memorable gaming moments to watch later or share with friends. However, these videos can take up a lot of space, and your console only has about 667 GB of usable space.
Because game files are becoming larger, you may want to disable this feature to save space. Go to Settings > Captures and Broadcasts > Auto-Captures > Trophies on your home screen and uncheck the Save Trophy Videos option. Disabling Auto-Capture Challenge Videos on the same page allows you to do the same for Challenges. This will free up some much-needed storage space on your PlayStation 5.
While we’re on the subject of storage space, you might want to consider purchasing an external hard drive for your PS4 games. Install your PS4 games on an external drive and play them from there. This is a great way to free up space on your internal drive for PS5 games, which can only be played from the internal drive even if you buy physical copies.
6.Modify Game Presets
The PS5 comes with some pre-installed game presets that can be used to easily change settings for supported games. This handy feature lets you change game settings like difficulty mode, subtitles, performance mode, and more without having to go into each game’s settings menu.
Go to Settings > Saved Data and Game/App Settings > Game Presets to access the game presets and customize them to your liking. By customizing these presets from the start, you will save a lot of time in the long run.
7. Receive Wishlist Updates
The PlayStation Store can be a bit overwhelming, especially with so many new games being released on a regular basis. Fortunately, the PS5 includes a wishlist feature that allows you to track the games you’re interested in and want to buy, allowing you to add games to your list and receive notifications when they go on sale.
To keep track of your favourite games, go to the PlayStation Store, find the game you want, and tap the Wishlist button. Go to Settings > Notifications > Wishlist Updates and turn on the notifications. You’ll start getting alerts when a game on your wishlist goes on sale, so you’ll never miss a good deal again.
8. Participate in Astro’s Playroom
This game may not appear to be much on the surface. Astro’s Playroom, on the other hand, is a must-have for all new PS5 owners. It is pre-installed on your console and is intended to demonstrate the capabilities of the PS5 controller. This immersive game shows you how to use all of the DualSense controller’s features, like the touchpad, adaptive triggers, and haptic feedback.
From the subtle vibration you feel while walking on smooth surfaces to the resistance you feel while moving against sand storms to the satisfying haptics you experience when zipping up your suit, each move in the game provides unique sensations. Not to mention how entertaining and adorable the game is.
Make the Most of Your PS5
The PlayStation 5 is a great console with a lot of features and potential that hasn’t been used yet. Think about using the tips above to get the most out of your console and have fun playing games. We’re sure you’ll have a great time exploring everything your console has to offer.
