Fix Ghost of Yotei Black Screen Issue After Starting the Game on PS5 | 2025 Guide

Ghost of Yotei, the highly anticipated action-adventure release of 2025, has been winning praise for its mesmerizing landscapes, fluid combat, and deep storyline. However, like many new game launches, it hasn’t been without issues. One of the most frustrating problems players are reporting on PS5 is the black screen issue after starting the game.

This problem typically occurs when players launch Ghost of Yotei and instead of being greeted with the main menu or opening cutscene, they’re stuck staring at a black screen. Sometimes audio may continue playing in the background, but the visuals remain frozen. In other cases, the game never progresses beyond the black screen, forcing players to restart their console.

If you’re dealing with this issue, don’t worry. Black screen errors on PS5 are usually caused by corrupted game files, outdated system software, cache problems, or storage conflicts. In this detailed guide, we’ll break down the common causes of the black screen problem and provide step-by-step fixes to help you get Ghost of Yotei running smoothly again.

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Common Causes of Ghost of Yotei Black Screen Issues on PS5

1. Corrupted Game Data – If the installation is incomplete or corrupted, the game may not render visuals properly.
2. Outdated PS5 Firmware – Running Ghost of Yotei on old system software can create compatibility issues.
3. Cache Problems – A corrupted cache can prevent the game from loading graphics correctly.
4. Performance Mode Conflicts – Sometimes visual settings cause conflicts when the game is set to resolution over performance mode.
5. External Storage Issues – Running the game on an external HDD/SSD can sometimes result in black screen problems.
6. Overheating Console – If the system overheats, it may freeze or fail to render graphics.
7. Licensing or Account Issues – If the PS5 cannot verify the license for Ghost of Yotei, it may fail to boot the game properly.

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Fix 1: Restart Your PS5

The simplest fix to start with is a restart:

1. Hold the PS button on your controller.
2. Select Power → Restart PS5.
3. Once rebooted, try launching Ghost of Yotei again.

💡 This clears temporary glitches that may cause black screen issues.

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Fix 2: Update Ghost of Yotei to the Latest Patch

Game developers often release performance updates after launch to address black screen and crashing problems:

1. Highlight Ghost of Yotei on your home screen.
2. Press the Options button on your controller.
3. Select Check for Update.
4. If an update is available, install it before launching the game again.

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Fix 3: Check for PS5 System Software Updates

Outdated firmware may cause the game to fail at startup:

1. Go to Settings → System → System Software → System Software Update and Settings.
2. Select Update System Software.
3. Choose Update Using Internet.
4. Restart your console after the update completes.

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Fix 4: Switch to Performance Mode

Sometimes the black screen occurs due to resolution conflicts. Running in Performance Mode may resolve this:

1. Go to Settings → Save Data and Game/App Settings.
2. Select Game Presets → Performance Mode or Resolution Mode.
3. Choose Performance Mode.

This prioritizes smoother gameplay over resolution and may bypass visual conflicts.

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Fix 5: Clear Cache & Rebuild Database

A corrupted cache is one of the most common causes of black screen problems. To fix this:

1. Power off your PS5 completely (not Rest Mode).
2. Press and hold the power button until you hear two beeps (Safe Mode).
3. Connect your controller with a USB cable.
4. Select Clear Cache and Rebuild Database.
5. Choose Rebuild Database.

This process cleans up system data and resolves conflicts that may prevent the game from rendering visuals.

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Fix 6: Move the Game to Internal Storage

Ghost of Yotei runs best when installed on the PS5’s internal SSD:

1. Go to Settings → Storage.
2. Find Ghost of Yotei in your installed games list.
3. If it’s installed on an external drive, move it to Console Storage (Internal SSD).

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Fix 7: Delete and Reinstall Ghost of Yotei

If the black screen persists, your game files may be corrupted:

1. Highlight the game on the home screen.
2. Press Options → Delete.
3. Go to Game Library → Purchased → Download Ghost of Yotei again.
4. Install it on the internal SSD for best performance.

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Fix 8: Restore Game Licenses

Sometimes licensing issues prevent the game from loading properly:

1. Go to Settings → Users and Accounts → Other → Restore Licenses.
2. Wait for the process to complete.
3. Restart your PS5 and try launching the game.

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Fix 9: Free Up Storage Space

Low storage can cause the game to fail during startup:

1. Go to Settings → Storage.
2. Delete unused games or applications.
3. Keep at least 50GB free space for smoother operation.

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Fix 10: Check for Overheating Issues

Overheating can lead to freezing and black screens:

• Place your console in a well-ventilated area.
• Avoid enclosed spaces like cabinets.
• Clean dust buildup with compressed air.
• Avoid running the console on carpets or beds.

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Fix 11: Adjust Display Settings

Sometimes, TV/monitor settings cause black screen issues:

• Ensure your display supports HDR/4K settings used by the PS5.
• Enable Game Mode on your TV.
• Try lowering resolution temporarily to check if the issue is display-related.

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Fix 12: Factory Reset PS5 (Last Resort)

If nothing else works, resetting your console may resolve the problem:

⚠️ Warning: This will erase all data, so back up your saves first.

1. Go to Settings → System → System Software → Reset Options → Reset Your Console.
2. Follow the on-screen instructions.
3. Reinstall Ghost of Yotei afterward.

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Additional Tips

• Always keep both your game and console firmware updated.
• Use a stable internet connection when downloading updates.
• Make sure your HDMI cable is 2.1 certified if using 4K at 60/120 FPS.
• Avoid using mods or third-party software that might interfere with the game.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why does Ghost of Yotei show a black screen after launch on PS5?
It usually happens due to corrupted cache, outdated system software, or corrupted game files.

2. Can reinstalling Ghost of Yotei fix black screen issues?
Yes, reinstalling ensures corrupted files are replaced with fresh ones.

3. Should I play Ghost of Yotei on the internal SSD?
Yes, the internal SSD provides faster and more stable performance than external drives.

4. Can overheating cause black screens?
Yes. If the PS5 overheats, it may fail to load visuals and freeze on a black screen.

5. Is factory reset necessary?
Only as a last resort. Try updates, cache rebuild, and reinstalling before considering it.

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Conclusion

The black screen issue in Ghost of Yotei on PS5 can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you’re excited to explore its world. Fortunately, most cases can be fixed by updating the game, updating PS5 firmware, clearing the cache, moving the game to internal storage, or reinstalling it.

If all else fails, restoring licenses or performing a factory reset may resolve the issue. By following this guide, you should be able to overcome black screen problems and enjoy Ghost of Yotei’s full cinematic experience without interruptions.