Definition:
Imagine being able to play your cherished old DVDs on your flashy new Blu-ray player, similar is the concept of Backwards Compatibility in video games. It means that a newer gaming console has been designed to play games from its older versions. For example, the PlayStation 5 being able to play PlayStation 4 games.
Why It Matters:
This term might pop up when your kiddo wants to play a cherished game from an old console on a new one. Understanding this term could help explain why some old games cannot be played on the new console (due to compatibility issues).
Grown-Up Tip:
When discussing a new console purchase, ask your child if there are any games from the old console they would like to continue playing. It opens up a conversation about the importance of backwards compatibility and helps you understand your child's gaming preferences better.