Streaming PS3 games on PS5 still broken, as support tells user PS Plus Premium perk is ending

Playing PS3 games on Sony’s latest console already had drawbacks, including a limited selection. However, now, PS Plus Premium subscribers are unable to stream the titles at all without workarounds. Gamers began reporting issues around January 16th, with PlayStation support proving unhelpful. In one case, Sony told a customer it would be discontinuing the cloud streaming feature.

Members of the highest PS Plus tier receive access to a Classics Catalog as a perk. Since the PS5 can’t natively run PS3 games, cloud streaming is the only option for classics like Ratchet & Clank. Sadly, after pressing the button to start playing these titles, they fail to launch. Also, there is no error code, which might help diagnose the problem.

Making gamers even more annoyed, PlayStation support is providing conflicting responses. Some agents seem unaware of the situation, while others acknowledge the issue, but can’t give an estimated time for a fix.

One of the most concerning conversations took place with a customer in Denmark. According to Redditor Makiota, he was told “PS3 games on PS Plus Premium are discontinued, and that an announcement would be on its way.” The agent was, hopefully, misinformed, since there are no other indications that Sony intends to take such a drastic action.

Workarounds to cloud stream PS3 games

There are straightforward ways to continue playing PS3 games on the PS5. One method involves adding the titles to PS Store wishlists, which results in them launching correctly. Alternatively, gamers can try adding their selections to libraries using the PS Plus app on PCs.

Given the latest troubles, the RPCS3 PS3 emulator for Windows, Linux, and other platforms seems more appealing. 70% of PlayStation 3 games are now playable using the program. Nevertheless, setup isn’t as user-friendly as official support on consoles would be.

PS Plus Premium costs U.S. subscribers $17.99 per month, with the Classics Catalog a key reason to upgrade. Considering the duration of the problem, many buyers are calling for refunds or credits.