PlayStation Error CE-45021-8 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

CE-45021-8 is a PS5 error indicating a game or application failed to run correctly. The system software detected an error in the game's execution and shut it down. This is usually caused by corrupted game data, an incomplete game update, or a software conflict. Deleting and reinstalling the game resolves most cases.

Affected Models

PlayStation 5 (PS5) all models
PS5 Digital Edition
PS5 with disc drive
PS5 slim

Common Causes

Game installation is corrupted or incomplete — missing or damaged game files
A game patch or update failed to install correctly, leaving the game in a broken state
The game is incompatible with the current version of PS5 system software
PS5 internal storage error causing the game files to fail to load
A background download was interrupted and left game data in an inconsistent state

How to Fix It

Close the application completely. From the PS5 home screen, press Options on the game tile and select Close Application. Wait 30 seconds, then try launching the game again.

Sometimes an application crashes and does not fully close. Forcing it closed and restarting it clears temporary errors.
Check for a game update. Highlight the game tile, press Options, and select Check for Update. Install any available updates before trying to play.

The game developer may have already released a patch for the exact bug causing CE-45021-8. Always check for updates first.
Delete the game and reinstall it. Go to the game, press Options, select Delete, confirm, then re-download from your game library.

A full reinstall replaces all corrupted files. Game saves are stored separately and will not be deleted.
Rebuild the PS5 database. Power the console fully off, then hold the power button for 7 seconds to enter Safe Mode. Select option 5 — Clear Cache and Rebuild Database.

This repairs file system errors that can cause game launch failures. It does not affect your data.
If the error occurs on multiple games, check system software. Go to Settings, System, System Software Update. Install the latest firmware update to ensure full compatibility.

A pending major system software update can cause compatibility issues with games that were designed for the newer firmware version.

When to Call a Professional

CE-45021-8 is almost always a software issue that resolves without professional help. If the error persists after reinstalling the game and rebuilding the database, contact PlayStation Support at playstation.com/support for further diagnosis.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will deleting the game delete my save files?

On PS5, game saves are stored separately from the game installation. Deleting a game removes the application but not the save data. Your saves remain in the console's save data storage. You can also back up saves to PS Plus Cloud Storage for extra safety.

How long does reinstalling a PS5 game take?

It depends on game size and internet speed. Most PS5 games are 40 to 100 GB. On a 100 Mbps connection, expect 1 to 2 hours for a full reinstall. On slower connections, it can take much longer. You can continue using other apps on the PS5 while the download is in progress.

Is CE-45021-8 caused by a server outage?

Not typically. CE-45021-8 is a local game execution error, not a network error. Check the PlayStation Network status page at status.playstation.com to confirm PSN is online. If PSN is fine and the error persists, the issue is with the local game installation.