PS5 Guide: Essential Tips, Top Games, and Quick Setup Hacks

Got a PlayStation 5 and want to squeeze every drop of fun out of it? You’re in the right place. Below are the moves that turn a good console into a great gaming hub.

Fast‑track your PS5 setup

First thing – plug the console into an HDMI 2.1 port. That’s the only way you’ll hit 4K @ 120 fps in the games that support it. If your TV only has HDMI 2.0, you’ll still get crisp 4K, but the ultra‑smooth frame rates will stay hidden.

Next, head to Settings → System → System Software and let the console update. Sony pushes patches that improve loading times, fix bugs, and sometimes add new features. Skipping this step means you’ll be stuck with older performance.

While you’re in Settings, turn on "Game Base" and enable "Friend Suggestions". It’s a quick way to see who’s online and jump into a co‑op session without hunting down usernames.

Must‑play PS5 games you shouldn’t miss

There’s a flood of titles, but a handful really showcase the hardware. "Demon’s Souls" is the benchmark for ray‑traced visuals – the lighting feels next‑level. "Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart" leverages the SSD to zip between dimensions with zero load screens; perfect for testing your new console’s speed.

If you like open worlds, "Elden Ring" runs smoother on PS5 than on older PlayStation models, and the new visual mode adds richer textures. For multiplayer fun, "Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II" and "Fortnite" both support 120 fps modes that make competitive play feel buttery.

Don’t overlook indie hits like "Hades" and "Return of the Obra Dinn" – they run flawlessly on PS5 and prove that great gameplay doesn’t need huge budgets.

Everyday tips to keep the PS5 humming

Store games on the SSD whenever you can. The console can stream from a disc, but loading from the internal drive is lightning fast. If you’re low on space, invest in an external SSD that supports USB 3.2 for extra room without sacrificing speed.

Turn on "Rest Mode" instead of fully powering down. Rest Mode recharges controllers, downloads updates, and keeps your games ready to launch instantly. Just make sure your power settings allow the console to stay cool – a simple fan cleaning once every few months does the trick.

Use the built‑in “Capture and Share” button on the DualSense to clip impressive moments. Clips automatically save to the Media Gallery, letting you edit them without leaving the console.

Finally, explore the PlayStation Store’s monthly free games. Even if you’re not a subscriber to PlayStation Plus, a handful of titles rotate each month and can add hours of entertainment at no cost.

With these setup steps, game picks, and daily habits, your PS5 will feel fresh and powerful long after the unboxing hype fades. Grab a controller, fire up a game, and enjoy the ride.