Video games for PS5, Nintendo Switch 2 and Xbox

Physical video games let you build a library you can lend, swap or keep on the shelf. There are titles for PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch and Switch 2, Xbox Series X and Xbox One, plus some PC releases, from publishers such as Nintendo, Sony, Ubisoft, Square Enix, EA, SEGA and Capcom.

Before you buy, check two things on the box: the platform and the PEGI age rating. PEGI 3, 7, 12, 16 and 18 show the minimum age the content suits, which helps when shopping for children. Many games come in Standard, Deluxe or Day One editions. The extra content varies, from digital items to an artbook or poster, but the core game is the same.

Frequently asked questions

Do PS4 games work on PS5?

Most PlayStation 4 games can be played on a PlayStation 5, and some offer a free upgrade to a PS5 version. A small number of titles are not supported, so it is worth checking the publisher's information. The PS5 Digital Edition has no disc drive, so playing physical discs on it needs the separate disc drive accessory.

Do Nintendo Switch games work on Switch 2?

Nintendo Switch 2 plays most original Switch game cards, and some titles get Switch 2 Edition upgrades with improvements. A few older games may have compatibility issues. Switch 2 games, however, will not run on the original Switch, so always check the platform printed on the case.

What is a Game-Key Card or a code in a box?

Some Switch 2 releases come as a Game-Key Card: the card in the box does not hold the full game but unlocks a download, and it must be inserted each time you play. A code in a box contains only a download code. Both need an internet connection and enough free storage for the first download.