The upcoming PlayStation 5 could be backwards compatible, as suggested by a patent filed by Sony.
The patent, listed under publication number 2019-503013, was filed nearly two years ago on January 20, and was finally published on January 31, 2019.
The patent itself describes a new method of operating software from older systems onto a newer device.
In essence, this new technology tricks older software by mimicking older platforms, allowing the legacy titles to be played on a new system – despite their architecture not matching up with that of next-gen consoles.
More specifically, the new method “spoofs” versions of processor IDs from older systems, as detailed by a diagram provided by the patent.
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Investors listed on the patent include such names as PlayStation 4 designer Mark Cerny and principal programmer Simon Pilgrim of Sony Entertainment Europe, among others.
While no particular hardware was listed on the patent, fans have speculated that it could mark a major step for the upcoming PlayStation 5 console, with some outlets even guessing that the PS5 will be able to emulate each of its previous iterations.
The patent could likewise hint at a solution to the PS4’s notorious difficulty with emulating PS3 titles, due to the system’s Cell Processor.
As nothing has been directly confirmed by Sony, theories remain up in the air – but many fans are excited about the possibility of having a single system on which to play their childhood gaming library.
