Security engineer Andy Nguyen installed Linux on a PS5 Slim, turning it into a gaming PC that runs Steam and Grand Theft Auto V at 60 FPS with ray tracing.
© E. Vartanyan
Security engineer Andy Nguyen has demonstrated an unusual experiment with the PlayStation 5 Slim console, installing the Linux operating system on it and effectively turning the device into a gaming PC.
To achieve this, the researcher used a chain of exploits that bypasses the hypervisor protection employed by Sony. Using the Byepervisor tool, he gained kernel-level system access and was able to run unsigned code. As a result, the console began functioning like a regular computer and gained the ability to run games through Steam.
As a demonstration, the engineer launched Grand Theft Auto V in its Enhanced Edition. The game ran at 1440p resolution with ray tracing enabled, delivering around 60 frames per second. Sound and key interfaces, including HDMI and USB ports, all worked correctly.
This experiment was conducted on a console with an older firmware version—roughly from the system's first software generations. This allowed for greater control over the device and enabled the installation of a third-party operating system.
Although full graphics hardware acceleration isn't yet fully implemented, the result highlights that the PS5's architecture closely resembles a standard x86-based computer. Such experiments also echo the OtherOS feature found on early PlayStation 3 versions, where Sony officially permitted Linux installation.
Enthusiasts suggest that projects like this showcase the potential of hybrid gaming devices, hinting at future systems similar to the Steam Machine concept that could blend console and PC capabilities.