PlayStation 5 for beginners
The PlayStation 5 (PS5) suits you if you want big, film-like games on your TV. It costs more than most other consoles and has fewer family party games than a Switch 2. A PS5 is a games console that you plug into your TV. It is not designed to be carried around.
Who it suits
It suits you if:
- You mostly play alone, on the TV.
- You enjoy story-led games with realistic graphics.
- You already know someone who plays on PlayStation.
It may not suit you if:
- You want a console to take with you. The PS5 stays at home.
- Most of your play will be family party games. See Switch 2.
- You want a low starting price.
What it costs in the first year
US prices, October 2026.
| Item | Standard PS5 | PS5 Digital |
|---|---|---|
| Console | $649.99 | $599.99 |
| PlayStation Plus Essential, one year | $79.99 | $79.99 |
| First-year total | $729.98 | $679.98 |
The PS5 Digital has no disc slot, so it plays downloaded games only. Game prices vary. PlayStation Plus Essential is needed for online play. Higher levels add a game library: Extra costs $134.99 a year and Premium costs $159.99 a year. See Game subscriptions explained.
What to know before buying
- Disc or digital. A disc drive lets you buy used and boxed games. Digital means downloads only.
- Space. Check that you have room near the TV. The PS5 is a large console.
- The controller. The PS5 controller has two sticks, shoulder buttons and triggers. Some games use triggers that push back to give a feel of resistance. See How to use a controller.
- Older games. Many PlayStation 4 games also play on the PS5. Check each game.
- Big downloads. Some games are large and take time to download.
Easiest first games
These are level 1 or 2 on our ratings for the PS5.
- Unpacking tells a story as you unpack boxes.
- Townscaper lets you build pretty towns with clicks.
- Dorfromantik is a calm tile puzzle.
- Cozy Grove is a gentle daily game.
- Flower is a short, calm game with no way to fail.
- Journey is a two-hour trip across a desert.
- Abzu is a swim through the ocean with no danger.
- Stardew Valley is a farming game.
Try the Game finder to narrow these down.
Is it easy to set up?
Yes. Plan for 30 to 45 minutes. You connect the power cable and an HDMI cable to your TV. Then follow the on-screen steps. You need a free account.
Can I play without a subscription?
Yes, for games you own and play on your own. You need PlayStation Plus to play online with others.
Is the PS5 too hard for a beginner?
No. Many PS5 games are gentle. Some are demanding, so check the ratings before buying. Am I ready? can help you judge a bigger game.
Can I play with grandchildren?
Yes. Some games have local play for two or more. The choice is smaller than on Nintendo consoles. See Games to play with grandchildren.
Next steps
- Compare it with a Switch 2: Switch 2 vs PS5 for beginners
- Read the buying checklist.