PS5 Says Can’t Start Game or App? Here Are the Top Fixes

Ever fired up your PS5, eager to dive into the latest adventure, only to be met with the dreaded “Can’t start game or app” message? It’s like showing up to a party and finding the door locked – frustrating and unexpected.

But fear not, fellow gamer. This hiccup is more common than a missed DLC release, and with a few simple tweaks, you’ll be back to conquering virtual worlds in no time. Whether it’s a glitch in the system or a pesky update, there’s a solution waiting for you.

Dive in as the top fixes are unveiled to get your PS5 running smoothly again, ensuring your gaming sessions remain uninterrupted and fun.

Common Causes for PS5 Unable to Start Games or Apps

Several factors may prevent the PS5 from launching games or apps effectively:

1. Software Glitches

Temporary software issues can disrupt game or app launches. These glitches often occur after system updates or unexpected shutdowns.

1. Corrupted Game or App Data

Incomplete downloads or installation processes can lead to corrupted data, causing failures when attempting to start the affected game or app.

1. Insufficient Storage Space

Lack of adequate storage on the PS5 can hinder the installation or operation of games and applications, leading to launch errors.

1. Outdated System Software

Running an outdated PS5 system software version may result in compatibility issues with newer games or apps, preventing them from starting correctly.

1. Network Connectivity Problems

Poor or unstable internet connections can interfere with the online components of games and apps, causing them to fail during launch.

1. Hardware Malfunctions

Faulty hardware components, such as a defective hard drive or overheating issues, can disrupt the normal operation of games and applications.

1. Incorrect User Permissions

Improper user account settings or permissions may restrict access to certain games or apps, leading to launch failures.

1. Conflicting Background Processes

Multiple applications running simultaneously can create conflicts, reducing system resources available for launching new games or apps.

1. Invalid Licenses or Region Restrictions

Games or apps with invalid licenses or those restricted to specific regions may not launch on the PS5, depending on the user’s account and location settings.

1. Faulty Controllers or Accessories

Defective controllers or incompatible accessories can interfere with the startup process of games and applications, causing launch issues.

Addressing these common causes involves performing system updates, verifying game data integrity, managing storage effectively, ensuring stable internet connections, and maintaining the PS5 hardware in optimal condition.

Basic Troubleshooting Steps

Addressing the “Can’t start game or app” issue begins with basic troubleshooting. These initial steps often resolve common problems quickly.

Restarting the Console

Restarting the PS5 can clear temporary glitches affecting game or app launches. To perform a restart, press and hold the power button until you hear two beeps, approximately seven seconds. Alternatively, navigate to the Control Center by pressing the PlayStation button, select “Power,” and choose “Restart PS5.” Ensure all games and apps are fully closed before restarting to prevent conflicts. If the problem persists, try a full shutdown by selecting “Turn Off PS5” instead of restarting. This method ensures the system resets entirely, which can resolve deeper software issues. Regularly restarting the console helps maintain optimal performance and can prevent future startup problems.

Checking for Software Updates

Outdated system software often causes compatibility issues with games and apps. To check for updates, go to “Settings,” then “System,” and select “System Software.” Choose “System Software Update and Settings,” and click “Update System Software.” If an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions to download and install it. Ensure the PS5 remains connected to a stable internet connection during this process to avoid interruptions. Additionally, verify that all installed games and applications are updated to their latest versions by selecting each title and checking for updates. Keeping the system and applications current enhances compatibility and performance, reducing the likelihood of encountering startup errors.

Verifying Game or App Installation

1. Access Game Library: From the PS5 home screen, open the Game Library to view all installed titles.
2. Check Installation Status: Highlight the desired game or app, press the Options button, and select “Manage Installation.” Confirm that all required data files are present.
3. Inspect for Corrupted Files: In the “Manage Installation” menu, verify the integrity of data files. Corrupted files can hinder launching the game or app.
4. Reinstall if Necessary: If corruption is detected, delete the game or app by selecting “Delete.” Then, reinstall it from the PlayStation Store or using the original disc.
5. Update Software: Choose “Check for Updates” under the Options menu to ensure the game or app has the latest patches, enhancing compatibility and performance.

Managing Storage Space on PS5

Insufficient storage often causes the “Can’t start game or app” error on PS5. To address this, first review the console’s current storage usage. Navigate to Settings, select Storage, and examine the distribution between installed games, apps, and system files. Identifying large files can highlight what consumes the most space.

Deleting unused games and applications frees up valuable storage. From the Storage menu, choose Console Storage, then Games and Apps. Select items to remove by pressing the options button and confirming deletion. This action removes the data, allowing room for new installations and updates.

Consider utilizing external storage to expand your PS5’s capacity. Connect a compatible USB extended storage device to one of the console’s USB ports. Once recognized, format the device for extended storage through the Storage settings. This setup enables installing and playing additional games without overloading the internal drive.

Regularly managing saved data prevents unnecessary clutter. Access Settings, go to Saved Data and Game/App Settings, and review stored game saves. Delete outdated or redundant files to maintain optimal storage performance.

Optimizing storage ensures smoother game launches and app performances. By consistently monitoring and managing storage space, users can minimize errors and maintain a seamless gaming experience on their PS5.

Storage Management Tips

• Check Storage Regularly: Monitor usage to prevent running out of space.
• Uninstall Unused Games: Remove titles not currently played.
• Use External Drives: Expand storage with compatible USB devices.
• Manage Saved Data: Delete old or unnecessary game saves.
• Update Installed Games: Ensure games are up-to-date to optimize space usage.

By following these strategies, managing storage on the PS5 becomes straightforward, reducing the likelihood of encountering the “Can’t start game or app” error.

Reinstalling Problematic Games or Apps

Reinstalling games or apps can resolve issues where the PS5 displays the “Can’t start game or app” message. Follow these steps to perform a clean installation:

1. Access the Game Library

• Navigate to the PS5 home screen.
• Select the Game Library from the menu.

1. Locate the Problematic Title

• Scroll through the list to find the game or app that won’t start.
• Highlight the title and press the Options button on the controller.

1. Delete the Game or App

• Choose Delete from the options menu.
• Confirm the deletion to remove corrupted files.

1. Reinstall from the PlayStation Store

• Go to the PlayStation Store on the home screen.
• Search for the deleted game or app.
• Select Download to reinstall.

1. Reinstall Using the Original Disc

• Insert the game disc into the PS5.
• Follow the on-screen prompts to install the game.
• Ensure the disc is free from scratches or damage.

1. Verify Installation Integrity

• After installation, highlight the game or app in the Game Library.
• Press the Options button and select Verify Integrity if available.
• This step checks for any remaining issues.

1. Update the Reinstalled Game or App

• Select the title in the Game Library.
• Press the Options button and choose Check for Update.
• Install any available updates to ensure compatibility.

1. Ensure a Stable Internet Connection

• Use a wired connection for faster and more reliable downloads.
• Check the network status under Settings > Network.

Reinstalling eliminates corrupted data and ensures that the latest version of the game or app is in use. This process often resolves startup issues, allowing uninterrupted gameplay and smooth app performance. Regularly updating and maintaining installations helps prevent future errors.

When to Contact PlayStation Support

If the “Can’t start game or app” issue continues after performing all troubleshooting steps, contacting PlayStation Support becomes essential. Users should reach out in the following scenarios:

1. Persistent Error Messages

Repeated error messages after reinstalling games or updating the system indicate deeper issues that require expert assistance.

1. Specific Error Codes

Encountering specific error codes not covered by standard fixes necessitates PlayStation Support to diagnose and resolve the problem effectively.

1. Hardware Malfunctions

Unusual noises, overheating, or connectivity issues with controllers and accessories suggest hardware problems that support can help address.

1. Account or Licensing Issues

Problems with account authentication, subscriptions, or game licenses require PlayStation’s intervention to ensure proper access and permissions.

1. Network Connectivity Problems

Persistent network issues despite resetting the router and verifying internet connections call for advanced troubleshooting by PlayStation Support.

1. Repeated Crashes or Freezes

Continuous system crashes or freezes during gameplay or app launches indicate underlying system or hardware faults that need professional attention.

1. Warranty and Repair Services

For hardware under warranty, contacting PlayStation Support allows users to arrange repairs or replacements efficiently.

1. Data Recovery Assistance

When data corruption affects multiple games or system functions, support can guide users through data recovery processes to prevent data loss.

Reaching out to PlayStation Support ensures that complex issues receive the necessary professional attention, facilitating a swift resolution and restoring a seamless gaming experience.

Conclusion

Facing the “Can’t start game or app” error on a PS5 doesn’t have to end your gaming session. With the right steps, users can quickly identify and fix the underlying issues. Whether it’s a simple restart or a deeper system update, there’s a solution available.

Managing storage and keeping software up-to-date play crucial roles in preventing future errors. Regular maintenance ensures that the console runs smoothly and games launch without a hitch. When needed reaching out to PlayStation Support can provide the additional help required for more complex problems.

By following these strategies gamers can enjoy uninterrupted gameplay and make the most out of their PS5 experience. Staying proactive with troubleshooting keeps the system in top shape and ready for any new adventures.