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CE-45023-0

Sony PlayStation

Severity: Moderate

What Does This Error Mean?

CE-45023-0 is a PS5 error that indicates a game or application failed to launch because of missing or unreadable data. The console cannot find the files needed to run the selected game. This usually means the game installation is incomplete, corrupted, or the game requires an update that has not been installed yet. Reinstalling the game or checking for updates resolves most cases.

Affected Models

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

Common Causes

  • Game installation was interrupted mid-download, leaving essential files missing
  • A game update overwrote or corrupted core game files
  • For disc games — the disc is damaged, dirty, or the disc drive cannot read it
  • The game was purchased on a different PSN account and cannot be accessed on the current profile
  • PS5 SSD data error causing the console to fail to locate game files

How to Fix It

  1. Check that the game belongs to the PSN account currently signed in. If it was purchased on a different account, switch to that account or ensure the console is set as the primary console for the purchasing account.

    Licenses for digital games are account-specific. A game downloaded on one account cannot be played on a different account unless the console is set as the primary console for the purchasing account.

  2. Check for a pending game update. Highlight the game, press Options, and select Check for Update. Some games require a day-one patch before they can be launched.

    CE-45023-0 often appears on newly installed games that require a mandatory update to play. Install the update before attempting to launch.

  3. Delete the game fully and reinstall it. Go to the game tile, press Options, select Delete, then re-download from the PlayStation Store or game library. Ensure the download completes fully before launching.

    An interrupted download leaves the game in an unplayable state. A complete fresh install resolves missing-file errors.

  4. For disc games, eject the disc and inspect it for scratches, smudges, or damage. Clean it with a soft microfiber cloth from the center outward. Try the disc again.

    Even light fingerprints in the wrong area can prevent a disc from being read correctly.

  5. If the issue persists on multiple games, rebuild the PS5 database via Safe Mode. Power off fully, hold the power button for 7 seconds, and select option 5 — Clear Cache and Rebuild Database.

    Database corruption can cause the PS5 to lose track of installed game files, triggering CE-45023-0 across multiple titles.

When to Call a Professional

CE-45023-0 is almost always resolved through software steps. If the error persists after reinstalling the game and rebuilding the database, contact PlayStation Support. For disc-related issues, the disc drive may need service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I play a PS5 game without a full download?

PS5 offers a feature where some games can start playing before the full download is complete. However, if you try to access a section of the game that has not yet downloaded, CE-45023-0 can appear. Wait for the full download to complete before playing for a smoother experience.

I bought the game on disc and get CE-45023-0 — what does that mean?

For disc games, CE-45023-0 often means the disc cannot be read, the disc is scratched or dirty, or the game requires a mandatory update that failed to download. Clean the disc, check your internet connection, and ensure the day-one patch installs fully.

Can a full storage drive cause CE-45023-0?

Yes. If your PS5 storage is completely full, game updates and installations cannot complete. This leaves games in an incomplete state that triggers CE-45023-0. Check your storage: Settings, Storage, and confirm you have free space. Delete games you are not playing to free up room.