Sony and Mark Cerny, the architect behind PS4 and PS5, might finally be cracking the code on one of the PlayStation community’s longest-running desires: PS3 backward compatibility on the PS5. A newly found patent could be the key to making this dream a reality.
The patent, titled “Backward Compatibility Testing of Software in a Mode That Attempts to Induce Skew,” outlines a sophisticated method for ensuring older software runs smoothly on newer hardware.
You see the full patent filing here.
The patent describes a system where a device (in this case, presumably the PS5) can run in a special “timing testing mode.” This mode is designed to deliberately induce skew—basically, creating timing variations that might mess with how software runs.
Think of it as a stress test for old games, making sure they can handle the new environment without breaking a sweat.
So why does this matter? Well, the PS3’s architecture was notoriously tricky, thanks to its Cell processor.
This complexity has made it tough to get PS3 games running on newer hardware. But with this new testing mode, Sony could simulate the PS3’s unique quirks on the PS5, identify any potential issues, and tweak the compatibility settings accordingly.
This means your favorite PS3 titles could finally find a new home on your PS5, playing just as smoothly as they did back in the day.
The Rumors
Sony is said to be working on PS3 emulation for PS5. This has been reported by multiple insiders including Shpeshal_Nick who spoke about it during a recent XboxEra podcast episode.
I didn’t get any more details than that. Will it have an FPS boost? I’ve got no idea…All I heard was that Sony’s working on selective PlayStation 3 backwards-compatibility.
Shpeshal_Nick
Now, PS3 backwards compatibility has been rumored since 2019. Yes, even before PS5 came out it was rumored that it’ll feature PS3 backwards compatibility. And over the years this rumor has come up multiple times. However, we have been disappointed every single time.
Will this time be any different? I hope so.
