Is Shadow of the Colossus on PS5?

Shadow of the Colossus remains one of the most iconic and emotionally driven games in the history of PlayStation. Originally released for the PlayStation 2, then remastered for PS3, and later fully remade for the PlayStation 4, it has continued to captivate players with its breathtaking landscapes, minimalist storytelling, and monumental boss battles. With the release of the PlayStation 5, many fans and new players alike are asking: is Shadow of the Colossus on PS5? The answer is yes while there is no native PS5 version, the PS4 remake is fully playable on the PlayStation 5 with enhanced performance and faster load times, making it the best way to experience this classic title today.

Shadow of the Colossus on PS5: Compatibility

Even though Shadow of the Colossus does not have a standalone PS5 edition, it is included in the PlayStation 5’s backward compatibility lineup. The game’s 2018 remake, developed by Bluepoint Games, was originally released for the PS4, but it runs smoothly on the newer hardware thanks to the PS5’s ability to play most PS4 titles without issue.

This means players can simply insert the PS4 disc or download the digital version if they already own it. If you’re subscribed to services like PlayStation Plus Extra or Premium, the game may also be available to play through the Game Catalog or streaming library, depending on your region and subscription tier.

What Does Backward Compatibility Mean for Players?

  • No need to wait for a separate PS5 version or remake.
  • Instantly access the PS4 version with improvements in load times and frame rate stability.
  • Maintain progress through saved data if previously played on PS4 (cloud save support may apply).

Performance Enhancements on PlayStation 5

One of the most exciting parts of playing older titles on new hardware is seeing how well they perform. Shadow of the Colossus benefits from the PS5’s hardware capabilities even without official upgrades.

Frame Rate and Graphics

On the PS4 Pro, the game offered two graphics modes: Cinematic Mode for 4K resolution at 30 FPS and Performance Mode for 1080p at 60 FPS. When played on the PS5, the Performance Mode remains available but with more stable and consistent 60 frames per second, creating a smoother and more immersive experience.

Although the game is capped at its original PS4 settings, the PS5’s SSD drastically reduces load times, allowing players to explore the vast world with minimal interruption. Texture streaming is faster, and transitions between deaths, fast travel, or restarting a colossus battle are nearly seamless.

Visual Quality

Even without PS5-native graphics updates, the 2018 remake by Bluepoint is visually stunning. It features modern lighting systems, updated character models, and breathtaking landscapes that feel timeless. On PS5, these elements are preserved and delivered with increased fluidity.

How to Play Shadow of the Colossus on PS5

If you’re eager to experience Shadow of the Colossus on PS5, the process is straightforward. Depending on how you want to access the game, here are your options:

1. Using the PS4 Disc

  • Insert the physical PS4 disc into your PS5 (disc version only).
  • The game will install and can be launched from your library.

2. Downloading the Digital Version

  • If previously purchased digitally, find it in your game library and redownload it.
  • If not owned, buy it from the PlayStation Store (still listed under PS4 titles).

3. Accessing Through PlayStation Plus

  • Check the Extra or Premium game catalog for availability.
  • Stream or download the title depending on your subscription tier and region.

Whichever method you choose, rest assured the game is fully playable and offers the complete remake experience, optimized for the hardware’s capabilities.

Why Shadow of the Colossus Remains Worth Playing

Whether you’ve played it before or are diving in for the first time, Shadow of the Colossus offers a unique gaming experience unlike any other. Its minimalist design, emotional tone, and sense of scale continue to impress even years after its release.

Key Features That Make It Stand Out

  • Epic Boss Battles– Each of the sixteen colossi is a puzzle to solve and a spectacle to behold.
  • Emotional Storytelling– The game says little but communicates volumes through its atmosphere and world.
  • Stunning Visuals– Even on the PS5, the 2018 remake feels modern, immersive, and awe-inspiring.
  • Timeless Soundtrack– The orchestral score builds tension and emotion, enhancing every battle and quiet moment.

No Native PS5 Upgrade: Does It Matter?

Some players may wonder why there hasn’t been a dedicated PS5 remaster or update patch for Shadow of the Colossus. The truth is, the 2018 remake already brought the game to modern standards with reworked visuals and optimized performance on the PS4 Pro. On PS5, these enhancements still shine due to the improved hardware support.

While it would be interesting to see a true PS5 version with support for DualSense features, ray tracing, or 4K/60 FPS without compromises, the current experience is already high-quality and accessible. Given the nature of the game, its artistic presentation doesn’t require the absolute cutting-edge graphics to leave a lasting impression.

How It Compares to Other Remakes

In the era of remakes and remasters, Shadow of the Colossus stands as one of the best examples of how to modernize a classic while staying faithful to its roots. Bluepoint’s remake was not a simple upscale it was a ground-up rebuild using modern tools, which explains why it holds up so well on PS5.

Compared to other remade classics like Demon’s Souls or The Last of Us Part I, Shadow of the Colossus doesn’t have the same PS5-native polish, but it still ranks highly due to its art direction, atmosphere, and performance stability.

So, is Shadow of the Colossus on PS5? Yes it may not have a dedicated PS5 version, but the fully remade PS4 edition is entirely compatible with PlayStation 5 and benefits from smoother frame rates and quicker loading times. Whether you’re reliving the story or experiencing it for the first time, the game remains a masterpiece in its genre. Thanks to its compatibility and performance on the PS5, now is still a great time to explore the ancient ruins, scale massive colossi, and uncover the emotional mystery at the heart of this unforgettable adventure.