Let’s be honest—customization is one of the unsung joys of owning a PlayStation. You want your console to feel like yours. Whether tapping a decal on the DualSense or changing your profile theme, it’s all about making that PS5 dashboard scream at you.
Sony dropped something that might blow your socks off: animated backgrounds on the PS5. Yep, the sleek, crisp UI we’ve known since launch just got a dash of life—and it’s looking stunning.
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What Are Animated Backgrounds on PS5?
Sony is not giving us full-blown dynamic themes just yet, but these looped visuals are a beautiful start. Think of them as moving wallpapers—clean, fluid, and designed to enhance your home screen’s ambiance. It’s a subtle yet game-changing upgrade.
The key detail? These backgrounds are currently only active on the main screen—not across the entire menu interface like on PS4. But even that little touch adds a whole lot of vibe.
The Rollout – What We Know So Far
The feature first became apparent thanks to @chi_m02 on X (formerly Twitter), who posted a glimpse of the swirling new visuals. Soon, other users confirmed that the update was gradually reaching consoles worldwide.
Initial speculation was that this might be a PS5 Pro exclusive, but nope—standard PS5 models are getting the love, too. It’s part of a phased firmware rollout, so if you haven’t seen it yet, keep an eye out.
How to Check if You Have the Update
Here’s a quick how-to for checking if you’re among the chosen ones:
- Go to Settings > System > System Software.
- Check for any available system software updates.
- If you see UI enhancements or customization improvements listed—boom, you’re in.
Customization Like Never Before
Sony knows we crave personalization. With these new visuals, they’re bringing flair back to the PS5 experience. While it’s not quite the same as the PS4’s dynamic themes, it still gives off major next-gen energy.
And honestly, it feels like Sony’s finally listening. Gamers have been asking for more ways to stylize their interface for years.
(Also See: PS5 vs PS5 Pro: Ultimate Comparison – Upgrade or Wait?)
Verified Animated PS5 Backgrounds
Here’s the goldmine! These are the 13 confirmed animated backgrounds Sony has rolled out so far—each paying homage to beloved franchises:
- Astro Bot – Whimsical and bright, just like the game.
- Days Gone – Moody and rugged, giving those apocalypse vibes.
- Demon’s Souls – Dark, eerie, and oh-so-beautiful.
- Ghost of Tsushima – Elegant and minimal, with those windswept plains.
- Ghost of Yotei – A variant with a bit more mysticism.
- God of War Ragnarok – Epic scale with Kratos front and center.
- Horizon: Call of the Wild – Serene and futuristic.
- Horizon Forbidden West – Bold, colorful landscapes.
- Lego Horizon Adventures – Cute, animated charm meets tech.
- Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart – Flashy, fast, fun.
- Rise of Ronin – Stylish and samurai-themed.
- Stellar Blade – Sleek sci-fi with energetic hues.
- MLB The Show 25 – For the sports fans—it’s game day every day.
How They Differ from PS4 Themes
Let’s get one thing straight: these aren’t dynamic themes. You’re not getting custom menu sounds or icon shifts. PS4 themes were more immersive, but these animated backgrounds are a visual flex. No bloat, just vibes.
Aesthetic vs. Functionality
So, are they useful? Not really.
But do they change the whole vibe of your console when you boot it up? Absolutely.
It’s like adding neon underflow to a sports car. Not necessary—but damn, it’s cool.
Where Are the 25th Anniversary Themes?
Sad news here. If you were hoping for a flashback to the legendary 25th Anniversary PlayStation theme—you might want to hold off. No such tribute has appeared…yet.
Sony seems focused on showcasing modern franchises for now.
Static Wallpapers Also Got an Update
While animated backgrounds are the highlight, Sony also slipped in many static wallpapers, including non-gaming ones like nature scenes and abstract designs. They’re not as exciting, but hey—there’s more choice for everyone.
How to Set Up Animated Backgrounds on Your PS5
It’s easy to switch things up:
- Head to Settings > Themes & Background.
- Scroll to Available Backgrounds.
- Choose from the animated or static options.
- Click “Apply.”
Boom. Your dashboard just leveled up.
Community Reactions So Far
The community is buzzing. Some players love the eye candy, while others say, “Is that it?” Expectations were sky-high for a return to full themes. But overall? The reaction’s been positive.
What This Means for the Future of PS5 UI
This could be Sony dipping their toes in the water. If fans keep hyping it up, we could see a return to more complex themes and custom animation tools.
With the PS5 Pro on the horizon, this could be the start of a more animated, expressive UI experience.
Sony’s UI Philosophy
Sony has always leaned toward clean, minimal, and futuristic designs. These backgrounds don’t clutter things—they enhance without distracting, staying true to the PS5’s signature look.
And with fan feedback in mind, they’re leaving the door open for more.
Final Thoughts
Animated backgrounds on the PS5 might seem small on paper, but in practice, they completely refresh the user experience. It’s a subtle evolution—but one that shows Sony’s listening, experimenting, and slowly letting personality shine through that sterile white interface.
So, what’s your pick? Kratos, Aloy, or Astro?
SOURCE Chi_M02/X
