Gaming with friends on PlayStation 5 just got more exciting with Share Play. This feature lets you invite a friend to watch or even play your games remotely, even if they don’t own the game themselves. To start a Share Play session on PS5, you need to begin a party voice chat with your friend, then enable Console Sharing through Settings > Users and Accounts > Other > Console Sharing and Offline Play.
Share Play opens up new possibilities for cooperative gaming experiences. You can let a friend take control of your game to help with a difficult level, or you can play local multiplayer games together online. The process is straightforward and doesn’t require both players to own the same game, making it a great way to try games before buying them.
What is Share Play?
Share Play on PS5 lets you invite a friend to watch your gameplay, take control of your game, or even play together in supported titles — all over the internet. Only one guest can join at a time.
đź“ť Requirements
- A PS5 console with the latest system software.
- A PlayStation Plus subscription (required for most Share Play features).
- A stable internet connection (Sony recommends at least 2 Mbps upload/download).
- Your friend must also have a PS5 or PS4 and be signed into PlayStation Network.
🔧 Step-by-Step Guide
1. Start a Party Chat
- Press the PS button on your controller.
- Go to the Game Base menu.
- Create or join a party with the friend you want to Share Play with.
2. Start Share Play
- While in the party, select your friend’s name.
- Choose Start Share Screen.
- Select Start Share Play.
Your friend will get an invitation. Once they accept, Share Play begins.
3. Choose a Play Mode
You’ll be given two options:
- Visitor Plays as You: Your friend takes control of your game (like handing them the controller).
- Play a Game Together: If the game supports multiplayer, you can play co-op or versus together.
4. Manage Share Play Session
- Share Play sessions last up to 60 minutes at a time, but you can restart it as often as you like.
- You can end Share Play anytime by pressing the PS button → Party → Stop Share Play.
⚡ Tips for the Best Experience
- Use a wired internet connection for smoother gameplay.
- Lower video quality in Share Play settings if you experience lag.
- Remember: Only one person can join via Share Play at a time.
✅ That’s it! You’re now ready to use Share Play on PS5 to share your games, let friends try them out, or play co-op together online
Key Takeaways
- Share Play allows you to stream your game to a friend who can watch or take control, even if they don’t own the game.
- You must start a party chat first, then activate Share Play through the party controls on your PS5.
- For game sharing between consoles, you’ll need to enable Console Sharing and Offline Play in your PS5 settings.
Understanding Share Play on PS5
Share Play is one of the PS5’s most powerful social features, letting you share your gaming experience with friends even when they don’t own the game. This feature transforms single-player experiences into social ones through PlayStation Network‘s connectivity.
Key Features of Share Play
Share Play on PS5 offers several powerful capabilities that enhance your gaming experience. The feature lets you virtually hand over your controller to a friend, allowing them to play your game remotely. This works even if they don’t own the game themselves!
You can choose between different modes:
- Watch mode: Friends can spectate your gameplay
- Play mode: Friends can play your game remotely
- Co-op play: Play together in games that support multiplayer
Share Play sessions typically last 60 minutes but can be restarted immediately. The host maintains ultimate control and can end the session at any time.
Unlike simple screen sharing, Share Play provides actual gameplay control to your friend, creating a virtual “couch co-op” experience across the internet.
System Requirements for Share Play
For optimal Share Play performance, both you and your friend need solid internet connections. PlayStation recommends:
- Upload speed: At least 2 Mbps (5+ Mbps recommended)
- Download speed: At least 2 Mbps (5+ Mbps recommended)
- Active PS Plus subscription: Required for the host
- PlayStation Network account: Required for both users
Your PS5 should be updated to the latest system software. Wired internet connections typically provide more stability than Wi-Fi for Share Play sessions.
Some games may restrict Share Play functionality due to publisher policies. Performance depends heavily on connection quality, with better connections reducing lag and improving video quality.
The Role of PlayStation™Network in Share Play
PlayStation Network serves as the backbone of the Share Play experience. It creates the secure connection between you and your friend when sharing games.
PSN handles all the technical aspects, including:
- Encrypted video streaming of your gameplay
- Controller input transmission from your friend
- Voice chat integration during sessions
- Party management for multiple participants
To use Share Play, both users must be in a party voice chat through PlayStation Network. The service dynamically adjusts video quality based on connection strength to maintain smooth gameplay.
PlayStation Network also enforces region and age restrictions during Share Play. Games with regional restrictions or age ratings might limit who can join your Share Play session according to their PSN account details.
Setting Up Share Play
Share Play on PS5 lets you virtually pass your controller to a friend over the internet. This feature requires some initial setup steps to work properly, but once configured, it’s straightforward to use.
Enabling Share Play on Your PS5 Console
Before using Share Play, make sure your PS5 is properly configured. First, check that your console is connected to a high-speed internet connection. Sony recommends at least 2 Mbps upload speed, but 5+ Mbps will provide better performance.
Sign in to your PlayStation™Network account on your PS5. Your account must have PS Plus membership to start a Share Play session.
Navigate to Settings > Users and Accounts > Other and check that “Console Sharing and Offline Play” is enabled if you want friends to access your games.
Ensure your privacy settings allow for Share Play by going to Settings > Users and Accounts > Privacy. Under “Personal Info | Messaging,” set “Who Can Join Your Party” to at least “Friends.”
Inviting Friends to Share Play
To start a Share Play session, first create a party with your friend. Press the PS button to access the Control Center and select “Game Base” or find the Party icon.
After starting a party voice chat, select the “Share Screen” option. From the menu that appears, choose “Start Share Play” instead of just screen sharing.
You’ll see options to either let your friend watch you play or give them controller access. Select your preferred option and send the invitation.
Your friend will receive a notification to join. They can accept it from their notifications or party screen.
Controlling Access and Permissions
When setting up Share Play, you have several permission options to consider:
Visitor Mode: Your friend can only watch your gameplay but can’t control anything.
Visitor Plays as You: Your friend takes control of your game using your account. This is great for helping them through difficult sections.
Play Together: In supported games, this allows for a virtual “couch co-op” experience where you both can play simultaneously.
You can end a Share Play session at any time by pressing the PS button, returning to the party screen, and selecting “Stop Share Play.” Sessions automatically end after 60 minutes but can be restarted immediately.
Remember that while sharing, your friend can’t access your system settings or make purchases on your account. You maintain ultimate control over your PS5 console throughout the sharing process.
Connecting PS4 and PS5 Consoles
Share Play bridges the gap between PlayStation console generations, allowing gamers to connect and play together regardless of which system they own. The feature works across PS4 and PS5 consoles with some specific requirements for optimal performance.
Cross-Generation Share Play
You can use Share Play between PS5 and PS4 consoles, making it possible to play games together even if you don’t have the same hardware. To start Share Play from a PS5 to a PS4 user, press the Create button on your PS5 controller during gameplay.
Select the Share Screen option, then choose Start Share Play. Your PS4 friend will receive an invitation they can accept.
The connection works both ways – PS4 owners can also share their games with PS5 users. Both systems require a stable internet connection. Sony recommends a minimum speed for smooth gameplay sharing.
You can share play for up to 60 minutes per session, but you can restart immediately after time expires.
Game Library Compatibility and Access
Not all games support cross-generation Share Play. Most first-party PlayStation titles work well, but some third-party games may have restrictions.
To enable proper sharing on your PS5, you’ll need to adjust your console settings. Go to Settings > Users and Accounts > Other > Console Sharing and Offline Play. Select “Enable” to allow Share Play functionality.
The feature gives PS4 users a chance to experience PS5 exclusive games without upgrading their console. Games like Demon’s Souls and Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart can be played through Share Play on a PS4.
Some features might be limited when sharing between console generations. Visual quality may be reduced slightly when streaming PS5 games to PS4 due to hardware differences.
Optimizing Share Play Sessions
Getting the most out of your PS5 Share Play requires some adjustments to ensure smooth gameplay and clear visuals. The right settings can make a significant difference in your sharing experience.
Adjusting Video Quality and Resolution
The quality of your Share Play session largely depends on your video settings. To adjust these, press the PS button during a Share Play session and select the Share Play settings option. You can choose between three quality levels:
- Standard – Good balance of quality and performance
- High – Better visual quality but requires stronger connection
- Best – Highest quality possible, needs excellent internet
Your internet speed will determine which setting works best. For 1080p streaming, aim for at least 15 Mbps upload speed. If you’re experiencing lag, try lowering the resolution.
You can also optimize your PS5 settings specifically for sharing. This includes adjusting HDR settings and frame rate priorities in the console’s system settings.
Mitigating Unstable Connections
An unstable connection is the most common problem with Share Play. Here’s how to fix it:
- Use a wired ethernet connection instead of Wi-Fi whenever possible
- Close other applications and downloads on your PS5
- Ask others in your household to limit their bandwidth usage during your session
- Restart your router before beginning a lengthy Share Play session
If you continue having issues, try reducing the session quality. Sometimes a stable connection at lower quality is better than a choppy high-resolution experience.
Test your connection before inviting friends by running a network test in your PS5 settings menu. You want at least 10 Mbps upload speed for basic Share Play.
Utilizing Rest Mode Effectively
PS5’s Rest Mode can be a valuable tool for Share Play sessions. When configured properly, it allows for:
- Quick resumption of Share Play sessions after breaks
- Background updates that won’t interrupt your sharing
- Power saving while maintaining network connectivity
To optimize Rest Mode for Share Play, go to Settings > System > Power Saving > Features Available in Rest Mode. Enable “Stay Connected to the Internet” and “Keep Applications Suspended.”
This setup ensures your PS5 maintains its network connection while in Rest Mode. Your friend can send you a party invitation that will wake your console from Rest Mode, making it easier to start Share Play sessions quickly.
Just remember that keeping these features active will use more power than standard Rest Mode.
Share Play Features and Limitations
Share Play on PS5 offers several powerful features for playing with friends remotely, but it does come with certain limitations you should know about. The system includes options for both sharing your screen and allowing others to take control of your games.
Understanding Console Sharing and Offline Play
To use Share Play effectively, you’ll need to configure your Console Sharing and Offline Play settings. This feature lets you enable or disable game sharing between your PS5 and other users.
To set this up, go to Settings > Users and Accounts > Other > Console Sharing and Offline Play. Then select Enable or Disable as needed.
Remember that you can only have Console Sharing enabled on one PS5 at a time. If you try to enable it on a second console, your first one will be automatically disabled.
Console Sharing allows:
- Friends to play your digital games when logged into your account
- Multiple users on the same PS5 to play your games
- Access to games even without internet connection (when enabled)
Remote Play Controls and Their Usage
Share Play gives you multiple control options when playing with friends. When starting a session, press the PS button on your DualSense controller and select Game Base from the quick menu.
You can choose to:
- Let a friend watch your gameplay: They’ll see your screen but can’t control anything
- Hand over controller: Gives your friend full control of your game
- Play together: Allows co-op play as a second player in compatible games
Share Play sessions typically last 60 minutes but can be restarted immediately. The feature works with both PS4 and PS5 consoles, so you can share between different PlayStation generations.
Internet connection quality affects performance, with better connections providing smoother gameplay and higher resolution video.
Troubleshooting Share Play Issues
Share Play on PS5 can sometimes encounter problems that prevent smooth gameplay sharing. These issues typically stem from connection problems or system settings that need adjustment.
Dealing with Disconnections and Errors
If your Share Play keeps disconnecting, first check both users’ internet speeds. PS5 Share Play requires at least 2 Mbps upload speed for the host and 2 Mbps download speed for the visitor. Higher speeds (10+ Mbps) provide better quality.
Port forwarding might solve persistent connection issues. Configure your router ports specifically for PS5 to improve connectivity. The required ports are TCP: 80, 443, 1935, 3478-3480 and UDP: 3478-3479.
Regional restrictions can also cause problems. If your friend lives in a different region, Share Play may automatically disconnect when they try to join. This is a known limitation waiting for an official fix.
Try restarting both PS5 consoles if you encounter unexplained errors. Sometimes a simple restart clears temporary system glitches affecting Share Play.
Checking Connection Status and Troubleshooting
Test your network connection directly from your PS5. Go to Settings > Network > Connection Status to verify your connection speed and NAT Type. For optimal Share Play performance:
- Aim for NAT Type 1 or 2 (Type 3 causes problems)
- Connect via ethernet cable instead of Wi-Fi when possible
- Close bandwidth-heavy apps on both systems
If you see the message “Can’t Join Share Play,” try this quick solution: both users should restart their PS5 consoles, then the host should ensure their game privacy settings allow for sharing.
When all else fails, try changing the Share Play options through the control center. Select the party voice chat card, then “Share Play Options” to modify settings or restart the session with different parameters.
Communication During Share Play
Staying connected with friends during Share Play sessions enhances the gaming experience. Voice chat is integrated directly into the Share Play system, making it easy to talk while playing together.
Voice Chat Options and Settings
When you start a Share Play session on your PS5, voice chat is automatically enabled through the party system. This means you can talk to your friend without any additional setup.
The voice chat quality adjusts based on your internet connection. For the best experience, use a stable connection with at least 5 Mbps upload speed.
You can adjust chat volume by pressing the PS button to open the Control Center, then selecting the Sound icon. From there, you can balance game audio and chat audio to your preference.
If you’re having trouble hearing your friend, check that they aren’t muted. Look for the microphone icon in the party voice chat card to confirm their mic is active.
For privacy, you can temporarily mute yourself by pressing the mute button on your controller or headset. This is useful when you need to speak to someone in your room.
Comparing Share Play with Other Platforms
PlayStation’s Share Play feature offers unique capabilities that set it apart from similar offerings on other gaming platforms. The feature allows PS5 users to share their gameplay experience with friends in ways that other consoles haven’t fully matched.
Share Play vs. Xbox’s Similar Features
PS5’s Share Play feature offers something truly distinctive in the gaming world. Unlike Xbox, which has screen sharing but more limited remote play options, Share Play lets you not only stream your gameplay to friends but also gives them control of your game.
You can hand over your controller virtually to a friend who can play your game without owning it. This is particularly useful when you’re stuck on a difficult level and need help.
Xbox offers basic streaming capabilities, but nothing that matches the full functionality of Share Play. Many Reddit users have noted that Share Play is underrated when comparing platforms.
With PS5, you can even play local multiplayer games together online through Share Play. This feature transforms single-console experiences into online multiplayer games instantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Share Play on PS5 has specific setup requirements and troubleshooting steps you should know. Here are answers to common questions about using this feature across different devices and games.
What are the requirements for using Share Play between PS5 and PS4 consoles?
To use Share Play between PS5 and PS4 consoles, both you and your friend need an active PlayStation Plus subscription.
Your internet connection should have at least 2 Mbps upload and download speeds, though 5+ Mbps is recommended for better quality.
Both consoles must be updated to the latest system software to ensure compatibility.
How do I initiate a Share Play session on my PS5?
To start Share Play on PS5, first create a party with your friend. You can do this by going to the Game Base menu.
Once in the party, press the Share button on your controller to bring up the share menu, then select Share Play.
You can also go to your friend’s profile and select the Share Screen icon, then choose “Start Share Screen” to invite them to watch your gameplay.
What troubleshooting steps can be taken if Share Play is not working between a PS5 and PS4?
If Share Play isn’t working, first check that both consoles are connected to a stable internet connection. Try restarting your router if needed.
Verify that both you and your friend have active PlayStation Plus subscriptions, as this is required for Share Play.
Try restarting both consoles completely. Sometimes a simple system restart can resolve connection issues between devices.
Can you share play PS5 games with multiple consoles simultaneously?
No, PS5 Share Play is limited to one viewer or participant at a time. You cannot share with multiple people simultaneously.
However, you can enable Console Sharing for different purposes, which allows multiple users on a single PS5 to play games purchased by the primary account.
To set this up, go to Settings > Users and Accounts > Other > Console Sharing and Offline Play, then select Enable.
How do I share my PS5 screen with a PC?
PS5 does not have a native feature to share your screen directly to a PC. Share Play is designed to work between PlayStation consoles.
For PC viewing, you’ll need to use a capture card connected between your PS5 and computer to stream or record gameplay.
Alternatively, you can stream your gameplay to platforms like Twitch or YouTube using the PS5’s built-in streaming capabilities, then view the stream on your PC.
What games are compatible with the PS5 Share Play feature?
Most PS5 and PS4 games support Share Play functionality, but some games may restrict certain sections or features during sharing.
Games with heavy online components or those requiring special peripherals might have limited Share Play capabilities.
Some publishers can disable Share Play for their games entirely, especially for titles with competitive multiplayer modes to prevent unfair advantages.
