Update: A Sony spokesperson responding to IGN's request for comment told us, "We don't comment on rumors or speculation."

 

Original Story: Sony's plans for making content from previous PlayStation systems playable on PlayStation 4 extends beyond its recently unveiled PlayStation Now streaming service, according to a new report.

 

An anonymous source has indicated to Digital Foundry that PlayStation 1 and PlayStation 2 emulation are on the way to PS4, possibly with the added bonus of enhanced visuals. This emulation would be handled through software much in the same way that it is on PS3, and Digital Foundry notes it's heard that "Sony is actively pursuing the ability for older titles to run without the blurry upscaling seen on PS3, suggesting that native HD resolutions are being targeted."

 

Due to a shift in the system's architecture from the PS3, PlayStation 4 currently lacks any way to play legacy games. This includes both physical and digital games, although the former can be read by the system -- the PS3 discs for certain games are even used toenable access to discounted digital versions of their PS4 versions.

 

Sony announced early last year that PS4 would lack native backwards compatibility. It was suggested by Sony Worldwide Studios head Shuhei Yoshida at the time that emulation could be a solution to the problem, but he refused to provide any specific plans on the matter, stating, "We're not talking about our emulation plans as yet."

 

We've known for some time that Gaikai's cloud streaming services would be put to use in PS4 as a way of making classic games playable, but it was only just earlier this month that specifics began to be revealed. PlayStation Now is a streaming service that will allow for PS3 games to be played on PS4, among other devices. While it opens the door for all sorts of interesting possibilities, it's not true backwards compatibility, and for many its Internet connection requirements put it out of reach for the time being. Software emulation, while still not providing a way for physical games to work on the system, would be a welcome addition to go alongside PlayStation Now.

 

Sony has yet to officially announce any details regarding emulation on PS4. Stay tuned to IGN for the latest.

 

Thanks to our good friends at IGN.

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That could be interesting thanks Sora.

 

You're welcome. Yeah, emulation is better than streaming.