The PlayStation 5 has ushered in a new era of gaming with its powerful hardware and intuitive user interface. Navigating through the immersive worlds of your favorite games is a delight, but once the gaming session concludes, a common query arises: “How to close a game on PS5?” In this guide, we’ll explore the simple steps to gracefully exit a game and return to the PS5’s home screen.
Locating the Controls: How to Close a Game on PS5
Closing a game on the PS5 is a straightforward process, and it primarily involves utilizing the intuitive controls of the DualSense controller. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
Press the PS Button:
The PS button, located at the centre of the DualSense controller, serves as the gateway to the console’s main menu. While in the game, simply press this button to access the control centre.
Navigate to the Game Icon:
In the control centre, you’ll find the game icon representing the currently active game. Use the left analog stick to highlight the game icon.
Options Button:
Once the game icon is highlighted, press the Options button on the controller. This button, distinguished by three horizontal lines, opens a contextual menu with various actions.
Close Game:
Within the menu, you’ll find the option to close the game. Highlight the “Close Game” or similar option and press the X button to confirm.
Return to Home Screen:
After confirming the closure, the PS5 will seamlessly return you to the home screen. You are now free to explore other games, applications, or system features.
Utilizing the Switcher: An Alternative Method
In addition to the conventional method outlined above, the PS5 offers a convenient feature called the Switcher, allowing users to effortlessly switch between recently used games and applications. The Switcher also provides a quick way to close an active game. Here’s how to leverage this feature:
Access the Switcher:
Double-tap the PS button on the DualSense controller. This action will open the Switcher, displaying thumbnails of your recently used games and applications.
How to close a game on PS5: Double-tap the PS button to access the Switcher.
Navigate to the Game Thumbnail:
Use the left and right directional buttons to navigate to the thumbnail of the game you wish to close.
Options Button:
Similar to the first method, press the Options button on the controller while the game thumbnail is highlighted.
Close Game:
In the menu that appears, select “Close Game” and confirm the action by pressing the X button.
Return to Home Screen:
With the game successfully closed, you’ll be seamlessly returned to the PS5 home screen.
Why Close a Game? Understanding the Benefits
Closing a game on the PS5 isn’t just about bringing a gaming session to an end; it also has practical benefits for the overall performance and resource management of the console. Here are a few reasons why you might want to make closing games a regular practice:
System Resources:
Closing a game frees up system resources, ensuring that the PS5 can allocate its power and memory to other processes or applications.
Optimized Performance:
By closing games, you help maintain optimal performance. This is especially crucial for resource-intensive games that may continue to consume system resources even when in the background.
Game Updates:
Closing a game can prompt the PS5 to check for updates more efficiently. This ensures that you have the latest patches, improvements, and content for your games.
Storage Management:
If you have limited storage space on your PS5, closing games becomes essential for managing your game library effectively.
Troubleshooting: What to Do When You Can’t Close a Game
While closing a game on the PS5 is generally a smooth process, there may be instances where the system encounters issues. If you find yourself unable to close a game using the standard methods, consider the following troubleshooting steps:
Restart the Console:
A simple restart can resolve many software-related issues. Turn off your PS5, wait a few seconds, and then turn it back on.
Check for Updates:
Ensure that your PS5’s system software is up to date. Updates often include bug fixes and optimizations.
Rebuild Database:
In the Safe Mode menu, you have the option to rebuild the database. This process can help address performance issues and is a more thorough form of system maintenance.
How to close a game on PS5: If issues persist, consider rebuilding the database in Safe Mode.
Contact Support:
If problems persist, reaching out to PlayStation Support may be necessary. They can provide specific guidance based on your situation.
Conclusion: How to Close a Game on PS5
In the grand tapestry of gaming, knowing how to close a game on the PS5 is a fundamental skill that ensures a seamless and optimized gaming experience. Whether you’re navigating through a vast open-world adventure or engaging in intense multiplayer battles, the ability to gracefully exit a game adds a layer of convenience to your gaming routine.
So, the next time you find yourself ready to explore a new virtual realm, remember the simple steps outlined above. Mastering the art of closing games on the PS5 not only enhances the performance of your console but also allows you to effortlessly transition between gaming adventures, unlocking the full potential of Sony’s next-gen gaming powerhouse.
