PS5 Emulation Achieves Breakthrough with GTA 5 Loading Successfully

PlayStation 5 emulation has hit a significant milestone, with the KytyPS5 emulator now capable of loading the main menu and settings for titles like Grand Theft Auto 5.

KytyPS5 serves as a “PlayStation 5 compatibility layer” and is still in its early development phase. A recent update on GitHub introduced version 0.0.2, which includes a range of technical enhancements. This update features a new shader that aids in translating PS5 graphics to PC, adds AGC driver support, and improves audio and video handling. Essentially, this means that more games can now load, albeit not fully playable yet.

The emulator’s progress comes in the wake of Sony’s surprising announcement to discontinue support for physical game discs. Starting January 2028, new PlayStation titles will only be available in digital formats through the PlayStation Store and select retailers.

This decision has sparked considerable backlash, as owning a digital game lacks the permanence of a physical copy. Digital storefronts for older consoles often shut down, making it impossible to access previously purchased games. In reality, consumers don’t truly “own” their digital games; they merely hold a license to play them, which can be revoked at any time.

Following Sony’s announcement, interest in PS5 emulator development has surged, driven by gamers eager to ensure they can continue playing Sony titles in the future. Reports indicate that four PS5 emulators are currently under development, with another emulator, SharpEmu, successfully booting Demon’s Souls (2020). This progress appears to surpass earlier expectations.

However, it’s important to recognize that emulation for most modern systems has been a slow process, and a fully functional PS5 emulator is likely still years away. For perspective, the PlayStation 3 emulator RPCS3, which launched 15 years ago, still only runs about 70% of the system’s library. The PS4 also lacks a fully operational emulator, with Shadps4 being the only option, specifically designed for Bloodborne, and yielding mixed results with other titles.

While the pace of progress may be slow, it’s reasonable to assume that Sony’s controversial shift to digital-only will accelerate emulation development across the board.