This PlayStation guide covers everything new owners need to know. Whether someone just bought a PS5 or is considering their first console, getting started can feel overwhelming. There are settings to configure, services to explore, and features that many players never discover.
Sony has sold over 60 million PS5 units since launch. The platform continues to grow with new games, updates, and services. This guide breaks down the essentials, from choosing the right console to maximizing the gaming experience. By the end, readers will have a clear path forward with their PlayStation setup.
Key Takeaways
- This PlayStation guide helps new owners choose between the PS5 Standard Edition (with disc drive) and Digital Edition based on their gaming habits and budget.
- Enable two-factor authentication immediately after setup to protect your PlayStation Network account from theft.
- PlayStation Plus Essential ($60/year) is mandatory for online multiplayer and provides monthly free games worth hundreds of dollars annually.
- Expand your PS5 storage with an NVMe SSD once the internal drive reaches 75% capacity to keep playing without deleting games.
- Use Rest Mode, the PlayStation App, and cloud saves to download games remotely, install updates overnight, and protect your progress.
- Take advantage of PlayStation Store sales, free-to-play games, and the PlayStation Stars loyalty program to maximize value from your console.
Choosing the Right PlayStation Console
Sony currently offers two main PlayStation console options: the PS5 Standard Edition and the PS5 Digital Edition. The Standard Edition includes a disc drive, while the Digital Edition relies entirely on downloaded games. Both versions deliver identical performance.
The Standard Edition costs more upfront but offers flexibility. Players can buy used physical games, trade titles with friends, and watch Blu-ray movies. The Digital Edition saves money initially but locks users into the PlayStation Store for all purchases.
For most players, this PlayStation guide recommends considering gaming habits first. Someone who prefers physical collections or wants to resell games should choose the Standard Edition. Those comfortable with digital libraries and frequent sales will find the Digital Edition sufficient.
Sony also released a slim version of both models in late 2023. These newer consoles take up less space and include a 1TB SSD instead of the original 825GB. The slim Standard Edition features a detachable disc drive, which adds another layer of flexibility.
Budget matters too. The Digital Edition often drops below $400 during sales, making it an attractive entry point. But, digital game prices can offset those savings over time if buyers don’t wait for deals.
Setting Up Your PlayStation
Setting up a PlayStation takes about 15-20 minutes for most users. The process starts with connecting the console to a TV via HDMI and plugging in the power cable.
Once powered on, the system walks users through initial configuration. This includes selecting a language, connecting to Wi-Fi, and signing into or creating a PlayStation Network (PSN) account. A PSN account is free and required for online features.
This PlayStation guide emphasizes one important step: enable two-factor authentication immediately. Account theft remains common in gaming, and 2FA adds critical protection. Users can set this up through Account Management in Settings.
The console will likely require a system update during setup. These updates can take 10-30 minutes depending on internet speed. Don’t skip them, updates include security patches and new features.
For the best experience, connect using an ethernet cable instead of Wi-Fi. Wired connections provide faster download speeds and more stable online gameplay. If Wi-Fi is the only option, position the console closer to the router.
After setup, transfer data from an old PlayStation if applicable. The PS5 offers a data transfer tool that moves games, saves, and settings from a PS4. This process requires both consoles on the same network.
Navigating the PlayStation Interface
The PS5 interface centers on two main rows: Games and Media. The Games row displays recently played titles, the game library, and the PlayStation Store. The Media row houses streaming apps like Netflix, YouTube, and Spotify.
Pressing the PlayStation button on the controller opens the Control Center. This overlay provides quick access to notifications, downloads, friends lists, and system settings without leaving a game. It’s faster than returning to the home screen for simple tasks.
The PlayStation guide for beginners should highlight the Activity Cards feature. These cards appear in the Control Center and show in-game objectives, challenges, and estimated completion times. Some cards let players jump directly to specific missions or activities.
Game Base handles all social features. Friends lists, parties, and messages live here. Starting a voice chat takes just a few button presses. The system also shows what friends are currently playing.
The Settings menu contains dozens of options. Key areas to explore include:
- Screen and Video: Adjust resolution, HDR settings, and performance modes
- Sound: Configure audio output and 3D audio settings
- Accessibility: Enable features like larger text, screen reader, and custom controls
- Storage: Manage installed games and expand storage
Customization options let users change themes, rearrange the home screen, and adjust notification preferences. Spending a few minutes here makes the PlayStation experience feel more personal.
Essential PlayStation Features and Services
PlayStation Plus remains Sony’s flagship subscription service. It comes in three tiers: Essential, Extra, and Premium. Essential ($60/year) provides online multiplayer access and monthly free games. Extra ($135/year) adds a catalog of hundreds of downloadable games. Premium ($160/year) includes classic PlayStation titles and game streaming.
For anyone playing online multiplayer games, this PlayStation guide considers Plus Essential mandatory. The monthly games alone often justify the cost, Sony has given away titles worth hundreds of dollars annually.
The PlayStation Store runs frequent sales. Major events include Spring Sale, Summer Sale, Black Friday, and holiday promotions. Wishlisting games sends notifications when prices drop. Patient buyers can save 50-75% on most titles by waiting a few months after release.
Remote Play lets users stream their PlayStation to phones, tablets, or PCs. The feature works over home Wi-Fi or internet connections. It’s useful for playing on a laptop while traveling or freeing up the TV.
Share Play allows friends to watch gameplay or even take control remotely. One player can hand a virtual controller to a friend anywhere in the world. This feature makes helping stuck friends or demoing games simple.
The PlayStation App connects smartphones to the console. Users can manage downloads, message friends, browse the store, and even use their phone as a keyboard. Starting a download from work means games are ready by the time users get home.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your PlayStation
External storage expands the PS5’s limited internal drive. An NVMe SSD (meeting Sony’s specifications) plugs directly into the expansion slot and runs PS5 games. External USB drives work for PS4 games and media storage. This PlayStation guide recommends adding storage once the internal drive fills past 75%.
Rest Mode keeps the console in a low-power state while charging controllers and downloading updates. Enable “Stay Connected to the Internet” in Rest Mode settings. Games and system updates will install automatically overnight.
The DualSense controller’s battery drains fast during intensive use. Adjusting haptic feedback and adaptive trigger intensity in Settings > Accessories extends battery life. Turning off the controller speaker also helps.
Explore free-to-play games before buying. Fortnite, Warframe, Genshin Impact, and Rocket League cost nothing to download. These titles showcase the PS5’s capabilities without any financial commitment.
Cloud saves protect game progress. PlayStation Plus members get 100GB of cloud storage. Enable automatic uploads in Settings > Saved Data and Game/App Settings. If a console fails or gets replaced, saves remain safe.
Join PlayStation Stars for free rewards. This loyalty program awards points for purchases and completing campaigns. Points convert to PSN wallet funds or collectible digital items.
Finally, check the Explore tab regularly. Sony highlights new releases, deals, and content updates here. It’s an easy way to discover games that might otherwise go unnoticed.
