If you own a PS5, there’s a good chance that you’ve encountered redeemable codes that come in console bundles, or on gift cards and digital content. However, if you’re a new user of PlayStation or a veteran who became too used to how PS4 was organized and functioned, you might be confused about what you should do with your code.

This article provides you with the ways you can successfully redeem your code. It will also outline steps to access PS4 games on a PS5 and what to do if you encounter an error message when redeeming codes.
PS5 Code Redemption
There are three different ways in which you can redeem a code for a PlayStation 5.
Using the Console
The most common and easiest way to redeem a code is doing it directly on the console.
Here is how you do it:
- Navigate to the PlayStation Store found on the left end of the main menu and press X on your console. Scroll down to reveal the store menu.
- Press the triangle on your console to access the new menu at the top right corner of your screen.
- Select the “…”icon at the top right corner of your screen.
- Click on “Redeem Code.”
- Enter your 12-character voucher code exactly how it appears and press the R2 button on your console when done. You’ll see a preview of what the code unlocks.
- Select “Redeem” to use the code, or press the circle on your console to go back and redeem the code later.
- When the redemption of a game code is completed, you can begin downloading your content right away.
Using the Official Website
You can also redeem your PS5 code on the PlayStation official website.
These are the steps:
- Sign into your account on the official website.
- Select “Redeem Codes.”
- Enter your 12-digit code and select “Redeem.”
- When the redemption of a game code is completed, you can begin downloading your content right away.
Using the PlayStation App
The third way of redeeming a code on PS5 is through the PlayStation app. The app is available on Google Play, the App Store, or on the PlayStation website.
Here is how:
- Download the PlayStation app if you haven’t already done so.
- Open the app. Log in if needed.
- Select the menu icon with three horizontal lines at the top right corner.
- Tap on “Redeem Codes.”
- Enter your 12-digit code and click “Next.”
- When the redemption of a game code is completed, you can begin downloading your content right away.
Note that the voucher with the code you’re trying to redeem must be from the same region as your account. Additionally, you can’t transfer content to another account, so make sure to redeem the code on the account on which you plan to access the game.
How to Access PS4 Games on Your PS5
Once you redeem a code for a game, you can select the PS4 or PS5 version to download for codes that have that option. Start the download by clicking on the arrow pointing downwards on the right side of each version. The PlayStation 5 is backwards compatible with over 4,000 PS4 games, so unless you’re buying a new title you’ll probably have this choice.
Furthermore, you can add the games you already own on your PS4 to your PS5 Library by copying them to an external storage device and then connecting it to a PS5, or by installing them directly onto the SSD in your PS5.
If you’re a PlayStation Plus subscriber, you can also access PS4 games in the new PlayStation Plus Collection. As for physical PS4 game copies, you can just insert the disc into your PS5 if the console has a disc drive.
How to Enter Discount Codes
Be careful about the number of characters on your code. If you have a 10-digit code, you won’t be able to redeem it in the same way as your game and DLC codes. These abbreviated codes are discount codes and you have to enter it in a different way.
- Go to PlayStation Store and add items to your Cart.
- Select “Enter Discount Code.”
- Enter the 10-digit code.
- Follow on-screen instructions to complete the purchase.
Discount codes can only be used once and can’t be combined with other discount codes. It is also not applicable for subscription services, video content, or pre-orders.
Why Do Codes Show as Invalid?
There are several possible reasons why your code won’t go through. If you’re facing some issues, here are a few ways to troubleshoot the issue.
- Check if the code has been entered correctly. Remember, 12 digits for games and DLC, and 10 for discounts.
- Look at the voucher for an expiration date. It might be that the code has expired and is not usable anymore.
- Each code is only redeemed once. You can check your transaction history in the details section of your online account. However, the store may have accidentally sold duplicate products or someone has redeemed the code without paying for it. Contact the place of purchase if you suspect duplication or theft.
- Sometimes the subscription vouchers require a valid payment method on the account, such as a debit or credit card. Check if there is such a requirement for the content you’re trying to access.
- If the game was just released, try redeeming your code again at a later time. The servers may be abnormally busy.
- The PlayStation Network may be experiencing issues. Check the PlayStation Network status before trying to redeem your code. You may have to wait out any network issues. However, if the network is fine, try logging out and signing into your account again.
If none of the mentioned tips work, contact the retailer to request the activation or replacement of the code.
New Games With Zero Struggle
Knowing how to redeem a code for the PS5 will allow you to easily download you new favorite games, use discounts on different content, and make your gaming experience smoother overall. Just remember that redemption codes can only be used once, so ensure that you have a strong internet connection before redeeming one.
What’s the most convenient way to redeem codes on a PS5? Have you experienced issues redeeming a code? Tell us in the comments below.
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