PS5 BackPork Payload: Run New Games on Older Firmware

PS5 BackPork Payload

BackPork is a newly released PlayStation 5 payload that has gained attention in the console hacking community. Developed by BestPig, this tool allows certain newer PS5 games to run on older firmware versions, helping users keep their systems unupdated while preserving jailbreak access.

PS5 BackPork Payload

Unlike traditional game patches, BackPork does not modify game files. Instead, it works by dynamically patching system libraries at runtime, making it a safer and cleaner approach for advanced users and developers.

How BackPork Works

BackPork runs as a background payload on a jailbroken PS5. When a game is launched, it:

  • Detects the game’s Title ID
  • Locates the game’s sandbox directory
  • Checks for a custom “fakelib” folder inside the game path
  • Temporarily mounts patched system libraries using unionfs

These replacement libraries override the original system libraries only while the game is running. Once the game is closed, BackPork automatically unmounts everything and restores the original system state.

Real-World Demonstration

In late December, BestPig showcased Astro Bot running on PS5 firmware 7.61, even though the game normally requires a newer firmware version. This demonstration proved that BackPork can successfully bypass firmware requirements without permanent system changes.

Library Patching Explained

BackPork includes patched system libraries originally from firmware 10.01, converted to work on firmware 7.61. These patches are provided in BPS format and remove missing or incompatible dependencies.

Early tests show:

  • Many games need only 2 AGC-related libraries
  • Some titles (like Minecraft) require more extensive library replacements

Support for lower firmware versions may be possible but has not yet been fully tested.

Requirements & Disclaimer

To use BackPork, you need:

  • A jailbroken PS5
  • Payload execution support
  • PS5 Payload SDK for building and running the payload

This project is intended for research and educational purposes only and comes with no warranty, as it interacts with low-level system components.

Why BackPork Matters

BackPork represents a major step forward in PS5 reverse engineering. It offers a promising solution for users who want to:

  • Stay on older firmware
  • Maintain exploit compatibility
  • Experiment with newer games safely

While broader game and firmware support is still being explored, BackPork has already sparked strong interest within the PS5 modding scene.