The process of sharing digital games on the PlayStation 5, also known as console sharing, allows a user to grant access to their purchased games and PlayStation Plus benefits to another player. This functionality is achieved by activating console sharing and offline play on a designated PS5 console. Only one console can be activated for this purpose at a time, effectively limiting the number of individuals who can simultaneously access the shared content under this arrangement.
This feature offers significant value by enabling families or close friends to share the cost of digital games and PlayStation Plus subscriptions. Instead of each individual purchasing the same game, one person can buy it and share it with another. Historically, console sharing has evolved from simple profile sharing on earlier PlayStation consoles to a more structured and secure system on the PS5, designed to prevent widespread abuse and unauthorized distribution of content. The primary benefit lies in cost savings and the ability to experience a wider range of games without individual purchases for each user.