Sony Brings Back Classic PlayStation Startup Screens to the PS5 in 30th Anniversary Update
Dec. 3, 2024PS5 is getting a nostalgic makeover, as PlayStation has just released a special update celebrating its 30th anniversary. When you start up your console today, you’ll be greeted with a system update that adds something truly special – the iconic PS1 startup screen along with themes based on every PlayStation generation.
How to Use Classic PlayStation Startup on PS5
The customization options go beyond just the startup sequence. You can head into yourSettingsto choose from different themes based on the PS1, PS2, PS3, PS4, or a special 30th-anniversary design. Each theme changes both the visual style and sound effects of your PS5’s menu system.
For instance, picking the PS1 theme adds the original console’s image to your screen, while other themes recreate thedistinctive background stylesfrom their respective generations. Even the menu sounds change to match whichever era you’ve selected.
After installing the update, you’ll have the option to customize your PS5’s look. The most notable addition is the return of that unforgettable PlayStation 1 boot sequence. If you select this option, you’ll experience that distinctive white flash and those classic sounds that defined gaming in the 90s. However, it now transitions to a special 30th-anniversary logo instead of the original PlayStation screen.
The 30th anniversary theme takes a different approach. It adds aspecial bannerto your home screen that incorporates the number 30 into PlayStation’s iconic button symbols: Triangle, Cross, Circle, and Square.Image Credit: PlayStation (via Sony)
However, there’s a catch that might disappoint long-time PlayStation fans. Sony has specified that these nostalgic customization options are only available “for a limited time.” The exact duration hasn’t been announced, so you’ll want to try these themes while you can.
This update arrives just in time for PlayStation’s official 30th birthday on December 3, marking three decades since the original PlayStation launched in Japan. Sony is celebrating this milestone in several ways, includingreleasing a special 30th Anniversary Collectionfeaturing grey-colored PS5 consoles that pay homage to the original PlayStation’s design.
If you want to experience these nostalgic themes for yourself, turn on your PS5 and follow the update prompt. Once installed, you can find the new customization options in your system settings. Just remember to try them out soon since they won’t be around forever.
