Can You Suspend Games in Rest Mode on PS5 and PS4

Yes, you can suspend games in Rest Mode on both PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4 consoles, allowing you to pause your gameplay instantly and resume exactly where you left off. This feature keeps the game application running in a low-power state while the system performs background tasks like downloading updates or charging controllers. This article outlines how the suspension feature works, the settings required to enable it, and the benefits of using Rest Mode for uninterrupted gaming sessions.

How Game Suspension Works

When you put your PlayStation console into Rest Mode while a game is running, the system does not close the application. Instead, it enters a low-power state that maintains the game’s current state in the system memory. This means that when you wake the console, you do not need to wait through loading screens or title menus. You are returned directly to the moment you paused, making it an efficient way to manage playtime without losing progress.

Enabling Rest Mode Features

To ensure games suspend correctly, specific settings must be enabled in the system menu. On the PS5, navigate to Settings > System > Power Saving > Features Available in Rest Mode. Here, you should ensure that “Stay Connected to the Internet” is checked if you want background downloads, and generally, the system is configured to keep games open by default. On the PS4, go to Settings > Power Save Settings > Set Features Available in Rest Mode. Ensure that “Keep Application Suspended” is enabled. Without this specific checkbox ticked on PS4, the system may close the game upon entering Rest Mode.

Benefits of Using Rest Mode

The primary advantage of suspending games in Rest Mode is convenience. It eliminates long load times associated with restarting heavy modern titles. Additionally, Rest Mode allows the console to download game patches and system software updates automatically while the game is suspended. This ensures that when you are ready to play again, your game is up to date and ready to launch immediately. Controllers can also charge during this period, ensuring your peripherals are ready for the next session.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Occasionally, games may close instead of suspending when entering Rest Mode. This often happens if the “Keep Application Suspended” setting is disabled or if a system update requires a full restart. If a game fails to resume, check for pending system software updates and install them before attempting to use Rest Mode again. Additionally, some specific games may have restrictions preventing suspension due to online server requirements or licensing checks, though this is rare on modern PlayStation hardware.